The Questions We Hear Most

Orthodontics (also called dentofacial orthopedics) is a specialized form of dentistry focused on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities — bite alignment, crowding, spacing, jaw growth, and tooth position.

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has completed two to three years of additional training after dental school. Dr. Grover is board-certified and able to straighten teeth, correct misaligned jaw structure, and improve the function of your smile — not just how it looks.

Any age can be a great age. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children first visit an orthodontist around age seven — early enough to catch growth issues while they’re easy to guide. But orthodontic treatment isn’t exclusive to children; about one in five orthodontic patients is over 21. Whether you’re considering treatment for yourself or for a child, any time is a good time to come in.

Absolutely. A growing share of our patients are adults — many choosing Invisalign for a discreet path, others finally fixing what wasn’t addressed as a kid. Bone responds to treatment at any age. The technology and timelines may differ from a teen case, but the outcomes are just as transformative.

Every case is different — cost depends on complexity, length of treatment, and the appliance you choose. Your free consultation includes a clear written estimate, and we’ll walk through insurance benefits, in-house payment plans, HSA/FSA options, and any courtesy discount you might qualify for. No surprises after.

Neither is universally better. Invisalign is discreet, removable, and great for mild-to-moderate cases and disciplined wearers (22 hours a day). Braces handle the full range of complexity and don’t require you to remember anything. Dr. Grover will recommend the option that fits your case and your life — sometimes one, sometimes either is fine.

Treatment time varies. Most full-comprehensive cases run between 12 and 30 months, with the average around 22. Limited cases (correcting just a few teeth) can be much shorter. Your treatment plan will include a realistic timeline before anything starts.

For braces, every six to eight weeks for an adjustment. For Invisalign, every eight to twelve weeks as you move through aligner sets. We work around school, work, and sports schedules — and most appointments are quick.

Brush thoroughly after every meal and snack — a soft toothbrush in small circles at a 45-degree angle around every bracket. Floss daily using a threader or super floss to reach between the wires. Use a fluoride rinse to protect enamel. Clean retainers daily and store them in their case when not worn. Skip sticky candies, hard breads, popcorn, and ice. Keep your regular six-month dental checkups — your dentist and orthodontist work together to keep your teeth healthy through treatment.

Yes, retainers are part of every case. Teeth want to drift back to their old positions — that’s biology, not a failure. Wearing a retainer as prescribed (often full-time for the first few months, then nights only) keeps your new smile in place. We’ll send you home with retainers and clear instructions.

Braces don’t usually hurt, though you may feel a couple of days of soreness as your teeth, gums, cheeks, and mouth adjust — both when you first get them on and after most adjustments. A standard over-the-counter pain reliever handles it. The discomfort fades fast.

Yes — even more important. With braces, food can get caught in places your toothbrush can’t reach, and bacteria can build up. Your dentist and orthodontist coordinate to keep your teeth clean and healthy throughout treatment. Don’t skip those six-month visits.

Playing an instrument or a contact sport may take a few days of adjustment, but braces won’t sideline you. If you play a contact sport, wear a mouthguard to protect both your appliance and your mouth — we can fit you with one.

Call us. A loose bracket or poking wire is rarely an emergency, but it’s worth a quick visit to fix so treatment stays on track. If it’s after hours, save the broken piece if you can and use the wax we send home with you to cover any sharp edges.

Call our practice at 615.778.1800. Our front desk staff will happily schedule your next appointment at a time that works. If you’re a new patient or have been referred, just let us know and we’ll send everything you need to get started.