Common Orthodontic Questions

You have questions. We have answers.

Dr. Hunter Harrison and Southern Orthodontic Specialists has become the trusted orthodontist serving Collierville, Southaven, and the entire Memphis area.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Is it required that my family dentist schedule my orthodontic appointment?

No, it is not. Many patients are referred by their family dentist, yet many patients take the initiative to schedule an examination themselves.

At what age should I schedule an appointment for an orthodontic screening?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening at age 7. By this age, several permanent teeth in most children have erupted allowing us to effectively evaluate your orthodontic condition.

Will my teeth straighten out as they grow?

No, they will not. The space available for the front teeth does not increase as you grow. In most people, after the permanent molars erupt, the space available for the front teeth decreases with age.

How do I schedule an appointment for an initial exam?

If you or your child can potentially benefit from orthodontic treatment, simply call our office Monday-Friday, 7:30-5:00. We will be happy to schedule an appointment for you. When you call to schedule your appointment, our front office staff will request some basic information from you. We will send you information forms to fill out and bring with you to your first visit. You may also wish to fill out our New Patient form from this website. It is located on the Patient Forms page. Print it out and bring it with you to your appointment.

Will I need to have teeth extracted for braces?

Removing teeth is sometimes required to achieve the best orthodontic result. Straight teeth and a balanced facial profile are the goals of orthodontics. However, because new technology has provided advanced orthodontic procedures, removing teeth is not necessary for most patients.

How long will it take to complete treatment?

Treatment time obviously depends on each patient’s specific orthodontic problem. In general, treatment times range from 12 to 30 months. The “average” time frame a person is in braces is approximately 22 months.

How much will braces cost? Are there financing options available?

It is impossible to give an exact cost for treatment until we have examined you. We will cover the exact cost and financial options during the initial examination. We have many financing options available to accommodate your needs, and we will review these with you. We will also review your insurance policy and help to maximize your benefit and file your claims.

Can I drop my child off for an appointment?

Yes. We understand your busy schedule and we are happy to help you make the most of your time. On some occasions, we may request to speak with a parent when they return, so we ask that parents check-in with our receptionist before dropping off their child.  Also, we have shorter hours in the summer, so it is best to check with the receptionist before dropping off your child in the later part of the afternoon.

Collierville, TN

256 Poplar View PkwyColliierville, TN 38017
901-853-9934

Southaven, MS

7732 Airways BlvdSouthaven, MS 38671
662-349-0777