Frequently Asked Questions

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. An early evaluation allows our orthodontic team to monitor jaw growth and tooth development and determine whether treatment may be helpful now or in the future.

Invisalign can correct many common bite and alignment problems, including certain overbites, underbites, and crossbites. Treatment depends on the severity and cause of the bite issue, so an orthodontic evaluation is the best way to determine whether clear aligners are right for you.

Invisalign treatment time varies depending on your teeth, bite, and overall treatment goals. Some patients complete treatment relatively quickly, while more complex cases take longer. During your consultation, we can provide a personalized estimate based on your needs.

Invisalign aligners are designed to be worn for most of the day and night, generally around 20 to 22 hours per day. You can remove them for eating, drinking anything besides water, brushing, and flossing. Consistent wear helps keep treatment progressing as planned.

Invisalign can be a great orthodontic option for many teenagers. Clear aligners are removable for meals and oral hygiene, but teens need to be responsible about wearing them as directed. An orthodontic consultation can determine whether Invisalign Teen is appropriate for your child's specific needs.

Yes. Orthodontic treatment isn't just for children and teens. Many adults can benefit from traditional braces or Invisalign to improve tooth alignment, bite function, and the appearance of their smile. We'll evaluate your oral health and orthodontic needs to recommend the most appropriate treatment.

Traditional braces use brackets and wires to gradually move the teeth, while Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners. Invisalign offers the convenience of removing your aligners for eating and brushing, while braces may be preferred for certain complex orthodontic cases. Your orthodontist can help you compare your options based on your treatment goals.

The cost of Invisalign in Canandaigua varies depending on the complexity and length of treatment. Dental or orthodontic insurance benefits and available payment options may also affect your out-of-pocket cost. We'll discuss your treatment plan and financial options with you before treatment begins.

Some dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits that may help cover part of the cost of braces or Invisalign. Coverage varies by plan, age, and treatment, so we'll help you understand your benefits and review available payment options.

The cost of braces depends on factors such as the type of treatment, the complexity of your orthodontic needs, and how long treatment takes. Insurance benefits and payment options can also affect your total out-of-pocket cost. We'll provide a personalized treatment plan and discuss the financial details with you.

Signs that your child may benefit from orthodontic treatment include crowded or crooked teeth, noticeable gaps, difficulty biting or chewing, teeth that don't come together properly, or an overbite, underbite, or crossbite. An orthodontic evaluation can identify developing problems even when they aren't easy to see at home.

Braces can correct many common orthodontic concerns, including crowded teeth, spacing problems, crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. Treatment can improve both the alignment and function of your smile, with the exact approach depending on your individual needs.

Orthodontic treatment time varies from child to child based on the type and severity of the problem, growth and development, and how well treatment instructions are followed. Many children wear braces for roughly 18 to 24 months, but we'll provide a more personalized estimate after evaluating your child's smile.

If your child has a dental emergency, contact Canandaigua Smiles as soon as possible for guidance. A knocked-out or severely damaged tooth, significant swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, or severe dental pain may require prompt attention. If your child has a life-threatening injury or difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Yes. Canandaigua Smiles provides pediatric dental care for children with special needs and works with families to create a comfortable, supportive dental experience. During your child's visit, our team can discuss individual needs and any accommodations that may help make dental care easier.