Frequently Asked Questions

Braces are fixed in place, brackets and wires working together, and there is virtually no orthodontic issue they cannot correct, complex cases included. Clear aligners work differently: a series of removable, nearly invisible trays that come out whenever you eat, which suits mild to moderate cases and patients who want treatment nobody notices. Dr. Najjar will work out which one suits your smile and lifestyle at your free consultation.

It hinges on what your individual case needs. With clear aligners, mild to moderate cases may take as little as 6–12 months, while braces on more complex cases can run 18 months to about 3 years. Dr. Najjar gives you a realistic timeline at your consultation, and keeping up with your appointments and daily care keeps that timeline on track.

Age 7 is the benchmark. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening for every child by then, because enough permanent teeth are in for Dr. Najjar to spot developing problems early, while the jaws are still growing and easiest to guide. An early evaluation does not automatically mean early treatment. It simply gives your child the best possible head start. Read more about early orthodontic treatment.

Having braces put on does not hurt. What patients notice afterward is mild soreness for a few days after the braces are placed, and again after each adjustment, which over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods handle easily. Modern braces are far more comfortable than older systems. Clear aligners can feel snug for a day or two whenever you switch to a new tray. Either way the discomfort is temporary and a sign your treatment is working.

There is no single price, because the type of treatment and the complexity of your case both move the number. You get an exact, no-surprises estimate at your free initial consultation. We run our own in-house payment plans and work with most insurance plans. Our financing page goes through the options in more detail.

Often, yes. An orthodontic benefit is common in dental insurance plans, particularly on children's coverage, but the details shift from plan to plan. We accept most plans and file your claim for you as a courtesy. Your benefits are verified when you come in and applied to your treatment, so you know exactly what to expect.

With braces, the rule covers anything hard, crunchy, or sticky enough to break or loosen brackets and wires. Hard candy, ice, popcorn, nuts, caramel, and chewing gum are the usual offenders, and crunchy foods like apples and carrots are fine once you cut them into small pieces. Clear aligners come out at mealtimes, so no food is off limits. Just brush before putting them back in. You get a complete list of tips when your treatment begins.

Start with orthodontic wax over the area that is bothering you, which brings relief straight away. A stray wire can be tucked gently back with the eraser end of a pencil. Then give us a call so we can schedule a quick repair visit. Issues like these are rarely true emergencies. Severe pain, swelling, or trauma to the mouth is a different matter, so contact us right away.

Yes, and it matters more than most patients expect. Once braces or aligners come off, teeth can gradually drift back toward their old positions unless something holds them there. That is the retainer's whole job. Most patients wear one full-time for a few months, then switch to nights only for the long term. Learn more about retainers.

No. Healthy teeth and gums are what matter, and treatment can be effective at any age. More adults than ever are choosing orthodontic treatment, helped along by discreet options like clear and ceramic braces and clear aligners that fit into adult life without announcing themselves. Explore adult orthodontics.

Heredity accounts for a great many of them. Crowding, spacing, protrusions, extra or missing teeth, and jaw-growth differences tend to run in families. Others can develop along the way, from thumb-sucking or prolonged pacifier use, gum disease, accidents, or the early or late loss of baby teeth. Read more about oral habits and how we help correct them.

Dental school comes first, then two to three additional years of advanced training devoted to one thing: diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. Those extra years are what make an orthodontist a dental specialist. Meet Dr. Najjar, our orthodontist serving patients at our Milwaukee, Greenfield, Beloit, and Roscoe offices.

One phone call, or request an appointment online, and your complimentary consultation is booked at whichever office is most convenient for you. Dr. Najjar evaluates your smile, answers your questions, and lays out your options alongside the costs. It is free, and nothing obliges you to go further. Se habla español.

Often, yes. Same day starts are something we offer, so rather than booking you back weeks later, we can usually place your braces right at the consultation appointment. Clear aligners work a little differently, because your trays are custom-made from your scans, so we take those records the same day and treatment begins as soon as your trays are ready. Just say you are ready to begin when you come in. Learn more about your first visit.

Yes. Bring your questions, not a translator. Spanish speakers are part of our team, so booking a visit, asking about treatment, and going over the costs can all be done in Spanish. Visite nuestra página en español.