Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics
This page answers the questions Houston families ask us most. For details on specific topics, we link to the right page as we go, so you can dig deeper where you need to. If your question is not here, just call us or request a consultation and we will be glad to help.
Getting Started
Do you charge for the first visit?
No. We offer a complimentary initial consultation for all new patients as a courtesy. If X-rays or other diagnostic records are needed, a small co-pay may apply. See what to expect on our first visit page.
Do I need a referral to see an orthodontist?
No. You do not need a referral to schedule a consultation. Many patients come to us directly, whether they have noticed an alignment concern or simply want a professional opinion.
At what age should my child first see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first evaluation around age 7. Early visits are mostly observational, letting Dr. Davoody monitor development and find the ideal timing for treatment, even when nothing needs to be done yet. Learn more on our early treatment page.
Do you treat adults?
Absolutely. Adult orthodontics is increasingly common, especially with discreet options like Invisalign and clear braces. Teeth can also shift years after past treatment. See our adult orthodontics page.
Do you accept patients transferring from another practice or city?
Yes. We are happy to help transfer patients get back on track. We assess your current progress and create a plan to finish your treatment, with monthly payment arrangements available and no large upfront fee.
How do I know if I or my child needs orthodontic treatment?
Common signs include crowded or overlapping teeth, noticeable gaps, a bite that does not meet evenly, difficulty chewing, or teeth that are hard to clean. Sometimes there are no obvious signs at all, which is why an evaluation, complimentary here, is the surest way to know.
Can more than one family member be treated here?
Yes. We often care for siblings, or a parent and child, at the same time, and we can coordinate appointments and financial arrangements to make treatment easier on your household.
Appointments and Office Policies
Can I schedule after-school or early and late appointments?
We do our best to accommodate busy schedules. Some procedures need mid-day time, so we reserve early-morning and late-afternoon slots for quick check-ins and follow-ups whenever possible. Ask our team and we will find what works.
How often will I have appointments during treatment?
Most patients in braces are seen roughly every 6 to 10 weeks for adjustments, while Invisalign patients are often seen every 12 to 16 weeks. Dr. Davoody sets your schedule based on your plan.
Do you see patients for orthodontic emergencies?
Yes. If you have an orthodontic emergency, please call us. Emergency guidance is also available on our voicemail and website.
What should I do if I am running late to my appointment?
Call us as soon as you can. We will do our best to accommodate you, though arriving on time helps ensure you receive the full attention your visit deserves and keeps the schedule fair for everyone.
Do I need to pre-medicate before orthodontic visits?
Possibly. If you pre-medicate for dental visits, check with your physician or orthodontist beforehand to confirm whether it is needed for your orthodontic procedure.
Do you offer virtual or remote check-ins?
At certain points in treatment, yes. Digital tools let us monitor some progress remotely, which can save you a trip. Dr. Davoody will tell you when an in-person visit is needed and when a remote check-in will do.
What should I do if a bracket breaks or a wire is poking me?
Call our office. Most issues are not emergencies and can wait for a regular visit, but we will advise you. In the meantime, you can cover a poking wire with a small piece of orthodontic wax for comfort.
Will my records transfer if I move away from Houston?
Yes. If you relocate mid-treatment, we provide your records and a treatment summary so your new orthodontist can pick up where we left off, and your progress is not lost.
How Orthodontic Treatment Works
How do braces and aligners actually move teeth?
Braces and clear aligners apply gentle, steady pressure that gradually guides teeth into better positions. Dr. Davoody plans the sequence of movement carefully so it is safe, comfortable, and predictable.
Do you use new appliances for every patient?
Yes. We use only brand-new orthodontic appliances for every patient, for both hygiene and performance. We do not use recycled braces.
What is the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who completes two to three years of additional training focused on aligning teeth and jaws. For braces or Invisalign, an orthodontist is the specialist trained specifically for that work. Dr. Davoody is a board-certified Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics.
Can orthodontic treatment fix my bite, not just straighten my teeth?
Yes, and that is a core part of what an orthodontist does. Beyond appearance, treatment corrects how the upper and lower teeth meet, which affects chewing, wear, and comfort. A balanced, functional bite is part of a healthy result.
How will I know my treatment is working?
You will see and feel gradual changes, and at each visit Dr. Davoody checks your progress against the plan. Because he personally oversees every case, adjustments happen promptly if your teeth move faster or slower than expected.
Treatment Timing for Children
What is Phase 1 (early) treatment?
Phase 1 orthodontics usually begins while some baby teeth are still present. It can guide jaw growth and correct spacing or bite concerns early, sometimes preventing more complex problems later. Details are on our early treatment page.
What is two-phase treatment?
Two-phase treatment pairs an early Phase 1 with a later Phase 2 once the permanent teeth are in. We recommend it only when it is genuinely needed for a stable, long-term result, never by default. A full evaluation determines whether it makes sense for your child.
Should my child start treatment now or wait?
For many children the answer is to wait and monitor, beginning treatment when the timing is ideal. For some, early action prevents bigger problems later. Dr. Davoody recommends starting only when there is a clear benefit, and is glad to simply watch your child’s development until then.
Wisdom Teeth
Do wisdom teeth cause teeth to get crooked?
There is no conclusive evidence that wisdom teeth cause crowding. Other factors usually play a larger role in any shifting that happens after treatment, which is one reason retainers matter.
Oral Health and Orthodontics
What are the health benefits of straight teeth?
Beyond appearance, straight teeth are easier to clean, which helps prevent cavities and gum disease. Good alignment also improves chewing, balances your bite, and supports long-term dental health.
How do allergies, enlarged adenoids, or mouth breathing affect orthodontics?
Chronic mouth breathing, sometimes caused by allergies or enlarged adenoids, can affect jaw growth and contribute to crowding or bite problems. This is part of why Dr. Davoody evaluates the airway alongside the teeth.
How does tongue posture or a tongue thrust affect treatment?
A tongue that pushes against the front teeth can affect alignment and spacing. Identifying and addressing tongue posture can improve and help maintain your orthodontic result.
Is orthodontic treatment safe during pregnancy?
Generally, yes, though it is always worth telling us about a pregnancy. We may adjust the timing of X-rays and certain steps as a precaution, and we keep your comfort in mind as treatment continues.
Can adults achieve the same results as teenagers?
In most cases, yes. Teeth move at any age. Treatment for adults can take a little longer because the jaws are no longer growing, but the results are just as real, which is why adults are one of the fastest-growing groups of orthodontic patients.
More Questions, Answered on Their Own Pages
For details beyond the basics, these pages go deeper:
- Costs, payment plans, and insurance: see financing and insurance.
- Retainers and keeping your results: see orthodontic retainers.
- Jaw pain, clicking, and headaches: see TMD and TMJ.
- Invisalign specifics: see Invisalign in Houston.
Still Have Questions?
We are glad to answer anything we have not covered here.
Davoody & Hablinski Orthodontics 5311 Kirby Dr Ste 209, Houston, TX 77005
Phone: (713) 521-2727
Office hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Request a complimentary consultation or call us today.
