Frequently asked
Orthodontics, answered.
The questions we hear every week, with the answers we'd give in person, written by the doctors who practice here.
General
The basics.
What is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dentist who completed 2 to 3 years of additional residency training, accredited by the American Dental Association, focused only on moving teeth and guiding jaw growth. A general dentist who offers braces or aligners has not completed that residency. Dr. Montoya is board-certified by the American Board of Orthodontics.
Do I need a referral to see an orthodontist?
No. You do not need a referral from your dentist to see an orthodontist. You can schedule a complimentary consultation at Oasis directly, by phone or through our website.
When should I or my child see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation around age 7. However, adults can also benefit from orthodontic treatment at any age.
Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?
No. Healthy teeth can be moved at any age, and many of our patients are adults. We treat adults with both braces and clear aligners, including discreet options designed to fit a professional setting.
What are the benefits of orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment can improve your oral health, enhance your smile aesthetics, boost your self-confidence, and correct bite problems that can affect chewing and speech.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Treatment time varies depending on the complexity of your case and the type of treatment you choose. On average, treatment can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months.
Does orthodontic treatment hurt?
You may experience some mild discomfort or soreness after adjustments or when you first get your braces or aligners. However, this is usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Will I need to change my diet during treatment?
With braces, you will need to avoid certain hard, sticky, or crunchy foods that can damage your braces. With clear aligners, you can remove them to eat and drink, so dietary restrictions are minimal.
Cost & choosing
What it costs, what to pick.
How much do braces cost at Oasis?
Most comprehensive braces cases at Oasis fall between roughly $4,800 and $6,500, and clear aligners land in a similar range. The exact figure depends on your case, and you get it in writing at your complimentary consultation, never a vague estimate. Our full cost breakdown for Clay County families is at /learn/how-much-do-braces-cost-fleming-island.
Is Invisalign more expensive than braces?
Not meaningfully, at Oasis. Comprehensive clear aligners fall in the same general range as metal braces for most teen and adult cases. Limited (Express) aligner cases cost less. If a practice prices aligners far above braces, that is usually markup rather than clinical necessity. Your exact quote is set at the consultation.
Braces or Invisalign for my teenager?
It depends on the case and the teen. Aligners suit a disciplined wearer who will keep them in about 22 hours a day; braces are the reliable choice when compliance is a question or the case is more complex. In the right hands, both reach the same result. We walk through the trade-offs for your teen at the consultation, and our full comparison is at /learn/braces-vs-invisalign-clay-county-teen.
What is early (Phase 1) treatment and does my child need it?
Phase 1 is limited, targeted treatment for a specific issue (a crossbite, severe crowding, a habit, a skeletal discrepancy) while a child is still growing, usually between ages 7 and 10. Most children who come in for an age-7 screening do not need it; they are simply monitored until the adult teeth arrive. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first screening around age 7 so anything harder to correct later is caught early. More at /learn/first-orthodontic-evaluation-age-7.
Braces
About braces.
What are the different types of braces available?
We use advanced self-ligating braces with a personalized treatment approach to straighten your smile comfortably and efficiently.
How do I care for my braces?
Brush your teeth after every meal and floss daily. Avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods. Attend all scheduled adjustment appointments.
What happens if a bracket or wire breaks?
Call our office immediately so we can schedule a repair appointment. In the meantime, use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges that may cause discomfort.
Clear aligners
About aligners.
What are clear aligners?
Clear aligners are a series of custom-made, transparent trays that gradually shift your teeth into their desired positions. Our orthodontists have extensive experience with clear aligner therapy and can handle even complex cases.
How often do I need to wear my aligners?
You should wear your aligners for at least 22 hours a day, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss.
How do I clean my aligners?
Brush your aligners gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water or toothpaste, as these can damage the aligners.
Retainers
After treatment.
Why do I need to wear retainers after treatment?
Retainers help maintain your new smile and prevent your teeth from shifting back into their original positions.
How long do I need to wear my retainers?
Initially, you will need to wear your retainers full-time. Over time, we will gradually reduce the wear time to nighttime only.
What happens if I lose or break my retainer?
Call our office immediately so we can make a replacement retainer. Delaying replacement can allow your teeth to shift.
Insurance & payment
The money question.
Do you accept my insurance?
We accept most major dental insurance plans. Contact our office at (904) 215-0980 and our front-desk team will verify your coverage at no cost.
What payment options do you offer?
We offer 0% interest in-house financing for families who want to spread payments across treatment, and a paid-in-full courtesy for families who prefer to settle the balance upfront. We work with every family to find a plan that fits their budget.
Do you offer any discounts?
We offer discounts for multiple family members receiving treatment and for paying in full upfront. Ask our team about current offers during your complimentary consultation.
Still have questions? Bring them to your consultation.