Frequently Asked Questions
Straight teeth are healthy teeth

What is Orthodontics?
Simply put, orthodontics is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on straightening teeth. However, it also involves complex issues such as correcting facial and jaw irregularities and improvement of chewing and breathing functions.

Why should I have my teeth straightened?
Having straight teeth is much more attractive, it will increase your self-esteem, and will make you want to smile all the time. Crooked teeth causes problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, improper chewing and digestion, bad breath, and tooth loss.

How do braces straighten teeth?
Braces use steady, gentle, pressure over time to guide teeth into their proper positions. The braces that are placed on your teeth and the archwire that connects them are the two main components. During your regular appointments, Dr. Zhu will bend and adjust the archwire to achieve your ideal bite. Before you know it, you will have a confident brand new smile.

Why should I choose an orthodontic specialist?
Your teeth and face can be permanently changed by orthodontic treatment – therefore, it is very important that the treatment be done properly. A licensed orthodontist, such as Dr. Zhu, has three additional years of training and is an expert at moving teeth, helping jaws develop properly, and ensuring that your teeth remain in their new positions.

Will orthodontics change my lifestyle?
You’ll have to give up hard and sticky foods such as peanuts and bubble gum – these types of foods can damage or break off your braces. However, after a brief adjustment period, you’ll realize that braces has not changed your lifestyle at all. You’ll still be able to eat most of your favorite foods, play musical instruments, and participate in sports.

Orthodontics for Children
It is recommended that children be seen by an orthodontist by the age of seven to advise if treatment is necessary. The first permanent teeth (molars and incisors) have usually grown in by that time. Common issues such as crossbites and crowding can be evaluated. When treatment is begun early, We can guide the growth of your child's jaw and direct incoming permanent teeth.

Early treatment can also regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches, gain space for permanent teeth, avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions, reduce likelihood of impacted permanent teeth, correct thumb-sucking, and eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech problems - early treatment can simplify or elminiate treatment later in life.

Am I too old for braces?
You deserve to have great looking teeth, regardless of age. If the appearance of your teeth is something that has been on your mind, it is time to call MBO for a consultation with Dr. Zhu. With discreet treatment options such as clear sapphire braces, lingual braces, and Invisalign, you'll be amazed at what we can help you accomplish. Your teeth will not straighten themselves out, so the sooner you start treatment, the longer you will have to enjoy your new smile.

Orthodontics for Adults
People of all ages can enjoy having a beautiful smile - orthodontics is not just for children. Our various types of orthodontic treatments can be tailored to fit your lifestyle. Aside from traditional metal braces, we offer clear ceramic braces that are less noticeable, as well as several invisible options.

We offer lingual braces, a system where special brackets are placed on the inside surface of your teeth so that nobody can see them. Howver the most popular discreet option is Invisalign – this is a system of removable clear aligners trays used to straighten your teeth.

What are the benefits of orthodontic treatment?
* Improved appearance of Smile, Teeth, and Face
* Increased Self-Esteem and Confidence
* Better Jaw Alignment, Proportion, and Chewing Function
* Healthier and Easier to Clean Teeth
* Correction of Harmful Habits
* Support of Proper Tooth and Jaw Growth

A person who does not start orthodontic treatment as prescribed will have problems with their teeth for years to come - it is best to get it taken care of as early as possible.

How much does orthodontic treatment cost?
The cost of orthodontic treatment depends on each patient's particular case. Nonethless, when compared to other personal services such as car repair and regular visits to the beauty salon or spa, orthodontic treatment is considerably more affordable - especially when you take into account the various payment options. 

In many cases, patients will have some type of orthodontic insurance which will cover a portion of the treatment fee. If you have insurance, we will help you determine the coverage you have available.

We will discuss all fees and payment options with you before treatment begins. We will work with you to develop a financial plan that will best fit your budget, we will also work with your insurance to maximize your benefits.

We offer the following in house payment options for your convenience:

* Interest-free monthly payments with an upfront down payment
* Visa, MasterCard, and Discover cards are accepted
* Automatic monthly payments from your credit card, debit card, checking, or savings account

Qualify for interest free financing with NO DOWN PAYMENT necesary
Get instantly approved for up to 24 months of interest free financing with no down payment prior to your consultation with Dr. Zhu. Simply click on the banner below to start the easy application process through Chase Health Advance.