Orthodontic Dental FAQs

At Flower Mound Orthodontics, we will gladly answer any questions or concerns about your orthodontic treatment. Dr. Wayne L. Sankey is an experienced orthodontist in the Flower Mound area who takes pride in providing patient education resources to our patients. For any questions not addressed below, please call our office.

Dr. Sankey has completed additional training specific to Orthodontics, including a post-graduate Residency Program in Orthodontics.

Do you offer adult orthodontics?

Yes. We offer a wide range of orthodontic treatment options for adults who want to correct their orthodontic concerns. Dr. Sankey will evaluate your smile and determine which treatment is right for you.

What is an orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has undergone two to three years of advanced training and experience. A highly skilled orthodontist can help straighten crooked teeth, address complex bite problems, and correct misaligned jaw structures.

What are braces?

There is a wide range of dental brace options to choose from. Options for braces:

  • Traditional metal braces
  • Clear Ceramic braces
  • Invisalign clear aligners
  • Self-ligating braces

An orthodontist may recommend braces for various reasons, and the length of treatment may vary from patient to patient.

Do braces hurt?

It is common for patients of any age to experience some discomfort when braces are placed, adjusted, or removed. This should be manageable with over-the-counter pain medication and will subside in a couple of days.

How will I know if my child needs braces?

Many professionals recommend that children should be evaluated around the age of 7 when permanent teeth begin to emerge. During this time, Dr. Sankey can examine your child’s teeth and jaw to check for developing bite problems or other orthodontic concerns. In many cases, early intervention can help prevent future orthodontic issues.

Can my child play sports with braces?

Yes- any patient wearing braces can remain active and participate in contact sports. Please ask us about mouthguards designed for braces, which we will provide at no additional charge to keep your smile safe.

How long will it take to complete orthodontic treatment?

The length of orthodontic treatment varies from patient to patient. Our team at Flower Mound Orthodontics works with each of our patients individually to create a treatment plan that is right for their needs. Typically, orthodontic treatment times range from 10 to 27 months. The average time frame for most patients is 18 months. However, this will depend on the patient’s diligence, treatment plan, and diagnosis.

Why Straighten Crooked Teeth?

You may not realize it, but straight teeth help you bite your food, chew your food, and speak properly. Not to mention, a straight smile brings you more self-confidence. In addition, many disorders are related to crooked teeth. These include TMJ disorders, gum disease, including periodontitis, uneven wear on teeth, and tooth damage. Dr. Sankey with Flower Mound Orthodontics offers many solutions to treat malocclusion to help avoid further issues with oral health.