FAQs

Yes! We provide complimentary consultations to assess your orthodontic needs and discuss the best treatment options for you.

The cost of braces varies based on the type of braces you select, the duration of your treatment, and any specific requirements unique to your orthodontic plan. Our treatment coordinators are dedicated to working with you to create a payment plan that fits your budget, ensuring you receive the necessary orthodontic care without financial stress.

Yes, we offer flexible payment options to make orthodontic treatment accessible for everyone. We also provide family discounts!

BFO accepts a variety of dental insurance plans to help make orthodontic treatment more affordable for our patients. We recommend contacting our office directly to confirm if your specific plan is accepted. Our team is also available to assist you with any insurance-related questions and help you maximize your benefits. 

No, you do not need a referral to make an appointment at Blackburn Family Orthodontics. However, if your dentist has referred you or your child for orthodontic care, please feel free to have any documentation sent to our office. We welcome all patients seeking orthodontic treatment, whether referred or not.

During your complimentary consultation, Dr. James Blackburn or Dr. Meredith Williams will assess your orthodontic needs and recommend the best treatment option for you. 

The amount of time spent in braces will vary, depending on the individual patient, because every smile responds differently to treatment. Treatment times can take anywhere from six to 30 months, but most standard treatments last about 18 months. 

We will provide you with an estimated treatment time during your consultation.

With braces, you may need to avoid certain hard or sticky foods. With Invisalign®, you can remove your aligners to eat, so there are no dietary restrictions.

Absolutely! You can continue to enjoy sports while wearing braces. However, to safeguard your teeth and orthodontic appliances, we strongly advise wearing a mouthguard during any sporting activities. Our team can provide recommendations for suitable mouthguard options to ensure your safety and comfort.

Yes, we recognize that your schedule can be hectic, and we aim to accommodate your needs. You’re welcome to drop off your child for their appointment. However, for the initial consultation, we require that a parent, guardian, or decision-maker be present to discuss treatment options and plans. Additionally, there may be times when we need to discuss your child’s progress or treatment with you, so we kindly request that you check in with our concierge before leaving your child. This ensures that we can communicate any important information when you return. 

Yes, to ensure the success of your treatment and avoid damage to your braces, it’s crucial to steer clear of certain foods. Here’s a list of what to avoid: 

• Chewy Foods: Stay away from chewy items like bagels, fruit leathers, and beef jerky. 
• Sticky Foods: Avoid sticky treats such as caramel candies, licorice, and marshmallows. 

• Crunchy Foods: Skip crunchy snacks like chips, raw carrots, celery, and popcorn. 
• Hard Foods: Avoid hard foods like hard candy, tough breadsticks, or pizza crust. 
• Biting Foods: Be cautious with foods that require biting, such as corn on the cob and apples. Instead, slice apples and cut corn off the cob before eating. 
  

If you want to improve the look and feel of your smile, then any age can be a great time to see the orthodontist. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children first visit an orthodontist around the age of seven; however, orthodontic treatment is not exclusive to children and teens. 
About one in every five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21. Whether you’re considering treatment for yourself or for a child, any age is a good time to visit the orthodontist. 

Braces do not often hurt; however, you may feel a small amount of discomfort for a couple of days as your teeth, gums, cheeks, and mouth get used to your new braces. Dr. Blackburn and Dr. Williams suggest using Ibuprofen or Tylenol to ease discomfort as well as nice cold drinks, smoothies, or shakes.

Absolutely! It’s even more essential that patients receiving orthodontic treatment visit their dentist regularly. With braces, food may be caught in places your toothbrush can’t reach. This causes bacteria to build up and can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Dr. Blackburn and Dr. Williams will work closely with your dentist to make sure your teeth stay clean and healthy during your treatment.  

Absolutely! Even after your monthly payments and contract obligations are fulfilled, your treatment will continue until your braces are ready to be removed. While most contracts are completed within 18-24 months, some treatments may require a longer duration to achieve the desired results.