What is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dentist who has earned a graduate degree in orthodontics. In Michigan, an orthodontist must be licensed through the state general dentistry board, and must also pass an Orthodontic Specialty exam.

When should my child see an orthodontist?
A child should have an initial exam at 7 to 8 years of age, unless a problem is noted earlier. There are many orthodontic problems that are much easier to treat in younger patients. If your child is not ready for orthodontic treatment, Dr. Barkley will ask you to return for another examination in the future, at no charge.

Do I need a referral from a dentist to see an orthodontist?
No, no referral is necessary. Just contact our office for an appointment.

Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment for adults sometimes takes a little longer than for children, but it can be extremely rewarding. Adults can be treated well into their sixties and seventies. Adults are often particularly interested in our ceramic (tooth-colored) braces, and in clear Invisalign retainers.

How much does an orthodontic evaluation cost?
There is no charge for an initial orthodontic evaluation at our office.

What will happen at my orthodontic examination?
We will take photographs of your face and teeth. If your dentist does not have an x-ray that shows all of your teeth, we will ask your permission to take an x-ray. Then Dr. Barkley will examine your teeth and face. She will answer the following questions for you: Is there an orthodontic problem? What treatment(s) are recommended? Is now an appropriate time for treatment? How long will treatment last? How much will it cost?

How much does orthodontic treatment cost?
Treatment fees range from about three hundred dollars for a simple retainer to six thousand dollars for an extensive treatment. The average full orthodontic treatment costs about fifty-one hundred dollars.

Can I pay in installments?
Yes! Most of our patients pay in monthly installments, interest-free.

Will my insurance cover orthodontics?
Many dental insurance plans have orthodontic benefits. The majority of plans pay a portion of treatment fees to a pre-determined maximum. Most plans cover patients until they are 19 years old, and a few employers provide orthodontic benefits for adults. Your human resource manager at work should know what benefits your plan provides.

What about the invisible retainers I've seen advertised?
The Invisalign System involves a series of clear retainers. Each retainer is worn for two weeks to move the teeth a small amount, or until the teeth are ready for the next retainer. Invisalign treatment is an option for teenagers and adults who have relatively minor crowding or spacing. It is not appropriate for more complicated orthodontic problems, or for young children.

What are your office hours?
We currently see patients:
Monday: 8:00 am - 5 pm
Tuesday: 8:00 am - 5 pm
Wednesday: 7:30 am - 4 pm
Thursday: 7:30 am - 4 pm

How do I schedule an appointment?
Call our office at 734-475-9143 or e-mail us at info@chelseaorthodontics.com