Find Answers to Your Orthodontic Questions
Why see an orthodontist?
Orthodontists like Dr. Raymond McLagan are dental specialists who receive years of additional full-time training in a residency after graduating from dental school.
This additional training uniquely prepares them to provide you and your children with the best possible care and experience in achieving excellent dental health and appearance.
Do I need a referral from my dentist to see a pediatric dentist or orthodontist?
No! Although we welcome patients referred by their dentist, you can call us directly and schedule a consultation without a referral.
It also does not affect your insurance benefits to schedule directly with us.
When should children get an orthodontic evaluation?
The American Association of Orthodontists and Dr. McLagan recommend no later than age seven or when the dentist or parent detects a concern.
Dr. McLagan can better treat some problems early, but we welcome patients of all ages(including adults!) for an orthodontic evaluation to see how great their smiles can be. And the initial orthodontic consultation is always free.
Can older teens or adults benefit from orthodontic treatment?
Of course! About 25-30% of orthodontic patients are over age 18.
And, clear aligner options like Invisalign make treatment for adults more comfortable and less noticeable than ever.
How much does orthodontic treatment cost?
The fee depends on the complexity of the treatment, and a thorough evaluation is necessary before we can determine an exact amount. We do not charge for the first consultation, so it costs you nothing to find out the recommended treatment, financial investment, and time involved.
We do not charge extra for Invisalign treatment, so it is the same cost as braces in our office. We work with insurance and offer several payment plans to help you fit orthodontic treatment into your budget.
Will insurance pay for treatment?
Insurance payments depend on the specific policy benefits covering the patient. We help you get the most out of any insurance benefits and accept most dental plans at our office.
Rarely does dental or orthodontic insurance pay for 100% of dental treatment, so you will likely have some financial responsibility. We offer several payment options to make your orthodontic treatment affordable.
How long does braces or Invisalign treatment take?
Orthodontic treatment is usually 1-3 years, with 18 months being the average. Dr. McLagan can give you a better idea at your free orthodontic consultation.
How long should retainers be worn?
The short answer is “as long as you want your teeth to be straight.” Like the rest of your body, teeth change with time, and that change is usually to crowd more. However, you can keep the teeth aligned with regular retainer wear.
Every night is ideal for the rest of your life, but many patients maintain good alignment with 4-5 nights per week. Retainers wear out, so you replace them as Dr. McLagan recommends.
What types of braces are available in Chattanooga?
At River Mountain Orthodontics, we provide several options for braces in Chattanooga, including traditional metal braces and clear aligners such as Invisalign.
During your consultation, Dr. McLagan will explain the differences and recommend a treatment that will work best for you.
How do I choose the best orthodontist for my family?
When looking for a Chattanooga orthodontist, consider experience, treatment options, and patient reviews.
River Mountain Orthodontics is proud to serve Chattanooga families with personalized care, modern technology, and a friendly team led by Dr. McLagan. Whether you’re considering braces or Invisalign, we’ll walk you through every step to make orthodontic care easy and stress-free.
What makes River Mountain Orthodontics different from other Chattanooga orthodontic practices?
Not every orthodontist in Chattanooga offers the same level of care. At River Mountain Orthodontics, Dr. McLagan combines advanced technology with a personalized approach to create treatment plans tailored to each patient.
Our focus is on making braces and Invisalign more comfortable and affordable for Chattanooga families.
