Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontic Care
Have questions about braces, clear aligners, cost, or getting started? Below are answers to what patients ask us most at Sugar Creek Orthodontics. Your first consultation is always free and no referral is needed, so you can also just call and ask us directly.
Getting Started
Q: Is there a charge for the first consultation? A: No. Your initial consultation is free. It lets us review your options for braces or clear aligners, answer your questions, and talk through cost and financing, with no fee and no obligation.
Q: Do I need a referral from my dentist? A: No. You can schedule directly with us. We are happy to coordinate with your family dentist, but a referral is not required.
Q: What is the best age for a first orthodontic visit? A: The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first evaluation by age 7, once the 6-year molars and front permanent teeth have come in. Even if treatment is not needed yet, an early check lets us monitor growth. Our free Grow Up Smiling program is built for exactly this.
Q: How long will the first visit take? A: Usually 30 minutes to an hour. Depending on your needs, it may include a visual exam and, when helpful, X-rays, digital scans, and photographs so we can build a complete treatment plan.
Q: Do you accept patients transferring from another orthodontist? A: Yes. We gladly welcome transfer patients. We gather your diagnostic records, review your progress, and map out the next steps in your treatment.
Treatment
Q: Do you treat adults? A: Yes, we treat all ages. About 1 in 4 orthodontic patients today is an adult, and modern options like clear ceramic braces and clear aligners make adult treatment more comfortable and discreet than ever.
Q: Can I book afternoon or evening appointments? A: We offer morning and afternoon appointments Monday through Friday. We are not open evenings.
Q: What should I do in an orthodontic emergency? A: Most issues, like a poking wire or loose bracket, can wait for a regular appointment, but call us if you are in pain or unsure. See our emergency care page for guidance and how to reach us.
Cost & Insurance
Q: How much do braces cost? A: At Sugar Creek Orthodontics, braces start as low as $2,200, and clear aligners start around $4,400. Your exact cost depends on your treatment plan, which we review at your free consultation. See financing options.
Q: Do you offer payment plans, and is there interest? A: Yes. We offer in-house payment plans with monthly payments as low as $180 and no interest, so you can spread the cost over your treatment.
Q: How do you handle insurance? A: Once we verify your coverage, we bill your provider directly and file your claims for you. If your insurance changes during treatment, any remaining balance becomes the patient’s responsibility.
Q: Do you offer a family discount? A: Yes. We have special pricing for families with more than one member in treatment. Ask us at your consultation.
Q: What forms of payment do you accept? A: We accept all major credit cards, direct debit, and online payments, in addition to our in-house financing.
After Treatment
Q: Will I need to wear a retainer after braces or clear aligners? A: Yes. Retainers keep your new smile in place. They are typically worn full-time for about six months, then at night going forward. We provide full care instructions when your treatment ends.
Q: Why do teeth shift over time? A: Teeth naturally move throughout life, with or without prior orthodontic treatment. That is why wearing your retainer as directed is so important for keeping your results.
Q: If my dentist prescribed pre-medication, should I take it before orthodontic visits? A: Yes. If your dentist has prescribed medication before dental procedures, please take it as directed before your orthodontic appointments as well.
Still Have Questions?
We are happy to help. Call our Bloomington-Normal office at (309) 452-7445 or our Lincoln office at (217) 732-1073, or request an appointment online. Explore more: Types of Braces, Clear Aligners, Before and After, Easy Financing.