Dr. Stefanie dougherty reviewing dental x-rays during an orthodontic consultation at dougherty orthodontics in st. Louis, mo

FAQs

Your Frequently Asked Orthodontic Questions In St. Louis

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment or you’re already on your smile journey, it’s natural to have questions. At Dougherty Orthodontics, we believe informed patients feel more confident throughout treatment. Dr. Dougherty and our team are committed to creating an exceptional experience throughout your entire treatment with us. Below are answers to some of the FAQs we hear most often from patients and parents.

Office & Practice FAQs

How long has this office been here?

Dougherty Orthodontics opened in 2013. Since then, Dr. Stefanie Dougherty and our team have been committed to providing progressive, high-quality orthodontic care and an exceptional patient experience.

No. Despite sharing the same name, Dr. Stefanie Dougherty is not related to Dougherty Ferry Road. We hear this question all the time!

 

Our office hours vary throughout the week. Please visit our Contact Us page or give us a call at (636) 825-1000 for our most current schedule and appointment availability.

Maybe! Your first visit includes a thorough examination and a customized treatment plan. If you’re ready to begin treatment and everything is in place, there’s a chance you’ll leave with braces the very same day.

Absolutely! Hot chocolate is braces friendly as long as it isn’t loaded with sticky toppings like caramel. Just remember to brush your teeth afterward.

Braces FAQs

What should I do if a wire is poking me?

Try covering the area with orthodontic wax. If the wire is still uncomfortable, contact our office so we can help resolve the problem.

As many as your braces allow! Whether you want school colors, holiday colors or your own unique combination, we’ll help you create a look that’s all your own.

Placing braces doesn’t usually hurt. You may experience mild soreness for a few days afterward as your teeth begin moving, but the discomfort is temporary and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods.

It’s common for teeth to feel tender later in the day or the following day after getting braces or adjustments. Most patients feel much better within a few days.

Depending on the type of braces you choose, there may be differences in treatment cost. During your consultation, we’ll review your options and explain any pricing differences so you can make the best decision for your smile.

It depends on your orthodontic needs. Metal braces are often the most efficient option for more complex cases, while clear aligners such as Clarity Aligners can be an excellent choice for mild to moderate alignment issues. Dr. Dougherty will recommend the treatment that’s best for your smile.

We know you’re excited! Every smile moves at its own pace. Your treatment timeline depends on your orthodontic needs, how well you follow instructions and keeping your scheduled appointments. Dr. Dougherty will always be sure to discuss your treatment timeline with you. 

Most patients return every six to eight weeks so we can monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments.

Avoid hard, crunchy, sticky and chewy foods that can damage brackets or wires. That includes popcorn, hard candy, ice, caramel, taffy and chewing gum. Softer foods are always the safer choice. For a more comprehensive guide, we invite you to check out the AAO’s guide to eating with braces.

Give our office a call at (636) 825-1000 as soon as possible. We’ll let you know if you need to come in right away or if it can safely wait until your next appointment.

Brush after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily using floss threaders or orthodontic floss picks to clean around your wires and brackets.

Braces don’t stain teeth. However, poor brushing can allow plaque to build up, which may leave white spots after braces are removed. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene helps keep your smile healthy and bright!

Absolutely. We recommend wearing a mouthguard during sports to protect your braces and teeth. If you play a wind instrument, you may need a short adjustment period, but most patients adapt quickly.

Community FAQs

Do you offer sponsorships?

Supporting our local community is important to us. We regularly consider sponsorship opportunities and encourage organizations to contact us with information about upcoming events.

Yes! Dougherty Orthodontics enjoys supporting local schools and the families we serve throughout our community whenever possible.

We love giving back to our community and are happy to consider requests from Girl Scout troops, youth sports teams and other local organizations. Reach out to our office to learn more about current opportunities.

Orthodontist selecting braces color options for a patient at dougherty orthodontics in st. Louis, mo

Retainers FAQs

How long do I need to wear my retainers?

Retainers are essential for maintaining your beautiful results. You’ll receive personalized instructions, but wearing your retainers exactly as directed is the best way to keep your smile looking great for years to come. Most patients will need to wear their retainers at nighttime for a lifetime.

Contact us as soon as possible. If you wait too long, your teeth may begin to shift, which can make replacing your retainers more difficult.

Teeth naturally want to move over time. That’s why retainers are such an important part of orthodontic treatment. Wearing them consistently helps protect your investment.

Yes! Once your braces are removed and your teeth have had a little time to settle, whitening can be a great way to enhance your new smile.

Insurance & Financial FAQs

What insurance do you accept?

Our team works with many dental insurance plans and will gladly help you understand and maximize your orthodontic benefits. If you have questions about your specific coverage, simply give us a call before your appointment.

Still Have Questions?

Our goal is to make every visit comfortable, informative and fun. If you don’t see your question listed in these FAQs, our team is always happy to help. Request a complimentary consultation with Dougherty Orthodontics today and discover why so many St. Louis families trust us to create confident, healthy smiles that last a lifetime.

Ready to love your smile?

Request a complimentary consultation with Dougherty Orthodontics in St. Louis to explore personalized braces and clear aligner options for children, teens and adults. Our team will help you find the right treatment plan for a healthier, more confident smile.