Q&A With Dr. Harris: Your Most Common Orthodontic Questions Answered

If you’re considering braces or clear aligners for your child, your teen, or even yourself, you probably have a few questions — and you’re not alone.

Below, Dr. Jay Harris shares clear, helpful answers to the most common questions we hear from patients and parents about orthodontic treatment.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children receive their first orthodontic evaluation around age 7. This doesn’t always mean braces start right away. In many cases, early visits allow Dr. Harris to monitor jaw growth, spacing, and bite development and recommend treatment only when the timing is right.

Early evaluations can help identify:

Today’s orthodontic options offer more flexibility than ever. At Jay Harris Orthodontics, we customize treatment to fit each patient’s needs and personality.

Options may include:

Dr. Harris will help you choose the option that best supports your child’s smile and lifestyle.

Not at all. Adults are one of the fastest-growing groups seeking orthodontic treatment. Many adult patients come to us to fix shifting teeth, improve their bite, or finally get the confident smile they’ve always wanted.

Braces and clear aligners can be incredibly effective at any age. At Jay Harris Orthodontics, we believe it is never too late to invest in your smile. That is why we offer customized orthodontic treatment for adults.

Most patients experience mild soreness or pressure for a few days when treatment begins or adjustments are made. This is a normal sign that teeth are moving as planned.

At Jay Harris Orthodontics, we focus on gentle techniques and patient comfort. Most people say it feels more like pressure than pain, and it fades very quickly.

Treatment length varies based on individual needs, bite complexity, and the type of appliance used. Some patients finish treatment in under a year, while others may need a bit more time.

During your first visit, Dr. Harris will use digital scanning and customized treatment planning to provide clear expectations and estimated timelines from the start, no guesswork.

Families often tell us they appreciate how personal, welcoming, and informative every visit feels. Our team takes time to explain each step of treatment and make sure patients feel confident and comfortable throughout the process.

We believe orthodontic care should be:

A great smile should feel achievable. Jay Harris Orthodontics offers:

Our team works closely with families to find a financial option that fits comfortably within their budget.

The first step is a consultation. During your visit, you’ll:

There’s no pressure, just clear answers, and expert guidance.

Orthodontic treatment is about more than straight teeth, it’s about confidence, function, and long-term oral health. Whether your child is ready for an early evaluation, your teen is excited to customize their braces, or you’re an adult ready to prioritize your smile, Jay Harris Orthodontics is here to make the experience positive from start to finish.

A confident smile never goes out of style. Take the first step toward orthodontic care that’s personalized, comfortable, and designed around you.

Schedule your consultation with Jay Harris Orthodontics today and discover what a confident smile can do.