Your Ortho Questions, Answered

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic checkup around age 7. This doesn’t always mean starting treatment right away—it simply gives us the chance to monitor jaw growth and spot potential issues early. If you’re in the Woodinville area, we’re happy to guide your family through early checkups.

No referral is needed! You can call us directly to schedule an appointment, whether it’s for you or your child. Our doors are open to anyone interested in orthodontic care.

You might notice crowding, an underbite, an overbite, or habits like thumb-sucking. Even if everything looks fine, an early checkup around age 7 can give us insight into how their smile is developing.

The length of treatment varies, but many patients complete their orthodontic care within 1 to 2 years, depending on the complexity of their case. We’ll give you a custom timeline during your consultation so you’ll know what to expect from the start.

Yes—and it’s one of the best parts! You’ll start to notice changes in your smile within the first few months, and we’ll keep you updated with digital scans or photos along the way so you can see the transformation in real time.

Costs vary based on your treatment plan, but we’re committed to keeping care affordable. We offer flexible payment plans, accept most insurances, and welcome FSA/HSA—our team will go over all your options upfront.

Most patients visit every 6–10 weeks for check-ins and adjustments. With clear aligners, visits may be even less frequent, depending on your progress and plan.

In many cases, yes! Aligners are great for mild to moderate corrections, while braces are often better for complex movements. We’ll help you choose the most effective option based on your goals and budget.

No worries! Just contact our office as soon as possible. We’ll guide you on the next steps, whether that means replacing an aligner or scheduling a quick fix for your braces.

That’s totally fine. Your consultation is all about giving you the info you need to decide when the time is right—whether that’s now, in a few months, or next year.