Orthodontic FAQs in Philadelphia and Bensalem, PA
What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a specialized field of dentistry in which teeth are moved into a straight position. While braces are the most common way to do this, in recent years many patients can achieve this with clear aligners such as Invisalign®. Some patients benefit from Phase I (early) treatment to address problems such as a narrow upper jaw or a deep overbite.
What is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist like Dr. Slutsky is a dental specialist who has received two to three years of additional training and experience. Dr. Slutsky is able to straighten teeth, correct misaligned jaw structure, and improve the function of your smile.
What should I look for when choosing an orthodontist?
We believe the best orthodontists are Diplomates of the American Board of Orthodontics and are involved in orthodontic education. Not only is Dr. Slutsky is a board-certified Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, he is also an Associate Professor of Orthodontics at the Kornberg School of Dentistry at Temple University. He is course director for three different courses: the Junior Dental Student Lecture Series, Advanced Education in General Dentistry, and Multidisciplinary Treatment for Second Year Orthodontic Residents. He has presented many continuing education lectures both at Temple and throughout the United States.
In addition to Dr. Slutsky's experience, we have a highly knowledgeable, friendly staff to walk you through every step of the new-smile process. We also offer evening and Saturday hours for your convenience.
Why is visiting the orthodontist so important?
It is always nice to have straight teeth and a nice smile. Equally important, straight teeth are easier to clean and maintain properly. By correcting bite issues, orthodontic treatment with Dr. Slutsky can help with the way the teeth function and help them to last longer without wearing down unevenly.
What's the best age to visit the orthodontist?
If you want to improve the look and feel of your smile, then any age can be a great age 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, with about one in every five orthodontic patients being over the age of 21. Whether you're considering treatment for yourself or for a child, any time is a good time to visit the orthodontist.
What’s involved in the first visit?
At your initial consultation at our Northeast Philadelphia (Mayfair) or Bensalem orthodontic office, Dr. Slutsky will evaluate what problems that he observes and what treatment options exist. He will give you an estimate of treatment time and fees, and he will try to answer whatever questions you have. If you want to move forward, for a small fee he can usually do X-rays and pictures of your teeth at this visit as well.
What are the most common orthodontic issues you treat?
The most common orthodontic problems are either spacing or crowding of teeth, narrow upper jaws, overbites, underbites, and open bites, where the top and bottom teeth do not touch. You can see examples of these and other situations in Before and After.
What treatments do you offer?
In addition to braces and Invisalign, Dr. Slutsky offers state-of-the-art in-house aligners made with our iTero® scanner, specialized software to move teeth on the computer, a 3D printer, and machines to make aligners. This technology eliminates lab bills and allows for lower fees, quick turnaround from the time we scan a patient to the time that the aligners are given to the patient, and excellent results.
What makes orthodontics with Dr. Slutsky unique?
The attention to detail! Dr. Slutsky is a perfectionist and tries to get everything as fine-tuned as possible. He not only evaluates the teeth, but he also looks at how everything comes together: the gums, the lips and facial structure, the shape and color of the teeth, and anything else which he feels may help the final result to look better.
How do I schedule my next appointment?
Simply call our Northeast Philadelphia (Mayfair) or Bensalem orthodontic office! Our front desk staff will be happy to help schedule your next appointment at your convenience. If you are a new patient or have been referred to our practice, please let us know and we will provide you with all of the information you need.