New Patients

Once again welcome to our office! Our staff is fully trained to assist you in answering any questions you may have about orthodontic treatment. We will keep you well informed throughout your treatment about what procedures are necessary and why they are needed. Braces are an important investment and at Cohen and Montini Orthodontics we want to make orthodontic care affordable. That's why we have designed a payment plan to fit almost everyone's budget including low monthly payments. We accept and file most insurance plans and will accept assignment of benefits from your insurance company.

Braces For Children

Malocclusion is a word very few know about, but many children experience. Malocclusion ('mal' meaning bad and 'occlusion' meaning how the teeth come together) can be caused by thumb sucking and lip biting, but is mainly hereditary in most cases. Malocclusion can take many forms (i.e. overbite, underbite, overcrowding, etc.) that only orthodontic measures can correct. One of the problems with orthodontic treatment for children is time. With school and school activites taking up much of the child's time, we have structured our office hours to offer the convenience needed for proper treatment.

Some orthodontic corrections need to be made early (3 to 4 years of age). Ordinarily, children should be checked by an orthodontist at the time permanent teeth begin to erupt to detect any deficiencies in the child's teeth formation. This is usually between 7 and 10 years of age. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children visit an orthodontist no later than age 8. Adults should visit the orthodontist to improve the appearance of their smile, as well as overall dental health. It is never too late to have a beautiful healthy smile.

Braces For Adults

Braces are not just for kids! More and more adults are opting for orthodontic treatment. Presently, adults make up 20% to 30% of our patients and this percentage is increasing. Important benefits for adults seeking orthodontic treatment are an improved appearance, increased self-esteem and a much healthier smile.

How To Care For Your New Braces

Oral Hygiene - It is very important to keep your teeth, gums and appliances absolutely clean throughout your treatment. At least once a day, spend a few moments with a mirror checking the appliances to make sure they are thoroughly clean and in good shape.

When your braces are placed you will be given a packet of aids for dental care while in braces and we will go over instructions thoroughly at that time. You will receive written instructions as well. We have rewards for patients who keep their teeth clean!

Brush as often as possible! When you brush, make sure you get under, over, behind and around all surfaces of the teeth and braces. Also, rinse your mouth thoroughly after brushing.

Use your Proxybrush between teeth, under the wire.

Use Phosflur, a fluoride rinse available over the counter at drug stores, every night.

When you floss, insert the floss behind the archwire. Gently clean the sides of your teeth and under your gums with an up-and-down motion. Gently slide the floss out from between the teeth and proceed with the next tooth.

Be sure to schedule regular visits with your general dentist while you wear braces. The dentist needs to continue dental cleanings and monitor for cavities and other dental needs.

Eating - Be careful with your appliances when you eat. For the first few days, soft foods will be the best to eat. Please do not eat anything that is very sticky or chewy. Avoid popcorn, hard chips (like Doritos), pretzels, granola bars, nuts, ice, and all types of gum. Do not bite into anything that is hard or crunchy (pizza crusts, bagels, apples, carrots, etc.). Instead cut these things into little pieces and chew with your back teeth. Take your corn off the cob and cut meat off the bones.