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(941) 231-4795
6286 Lake Osprey Drive
Lakewood Ranch, Fl 34240
(941) 260-1393
2916 Bee Ridge Road
Sarasota, FL 34239
(941) 231-4795
6286 Lake Osprey Drive
Lakewood Ranch, Fl 34240
(941) 260-1393
2916 Bee Ridge Road
Sarasota, FL 34239

Orthodontics FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics

General

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that addresses the improper positioning of the teeth and jaws, especially misalignment which can lead to various risks including but not limited to tooth decay, pain, and speech problems. Orthodontic treatment can effectively correct gaps between teeth, overbite, underbite, crossbite, teeth overcrowding, crooked teeth, and much more. 

What is an orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a trained medical specialist who has completed college, dental school, and orthodontic school–orthodontists complete a two to three year orthodontic residency program after dental school. An orthodontist diagnoses, prevents, and treats dental and facial irregularities by creating custom treatment plans for each patient. Did you know that 100% of orthodontists are dentists, but only 6% of dentists are orthodontists? 

What is the best age to visit the orthodontist?

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, it is recommended that children first visit the orthodontist around age seven or eight to evaluate the growth of the jaw and potential bite problems. However, orthodontic treatment is not limited to children and teens and there is no age limit for seeking a straight smile. In fact, about one in five orthodontic patients is over the age of 18. Whether you’re considering treatment for yourself or for a child or teen, any time is a good time to visit the orthodontist and begin the process towards your perfect smile! 

How do I schedule appointments?

The easiest way to schedule your initial consultation and/or regular appointments is to give us a call! Regular visits are an important part of the orthodontic treatment process in order to make adjustments and monitor your progress. Our team will work with you based on your schedule to make sure that your appointments are as convenient as possible. When scheduling appointments, please let us know what days and times work best for you and our friendly receptionists will assist you. 

Braces

What are braces?

Braces are a dental device used in orthodontics to align and straighten teeth. Braces put gentle pressure on your teeth and move them slowly in the correct direction. Braces are used to correct a variety of problems, including but not limited to overbites, underbites, teeth gaps, crooked teeth, and more. 

If I get braces, how long will I have to wear them?

Each individual orthodontic case is unique and the amount of total time spent wearing braces can vary depending on the patient. Most patients will need to wear braces for anywhere from 18 to 24 months, though more difficult cases may take longer. 

Do braces hurt?

Some mild pain or discomfort is normal while wearing braces, but you should only feel discomfort immediately after your orthodontist places or adjusts your braces or wires. This should last no longer than a few days to a week at most. If your braces are bothering you, we recommend taking pain relievers like Advil, eating soft foods, or icing your gums for 15 minutes. 

Do I need to brush my teeth more often if I have braces?
Most orthodontists do recommend brushing teeth after every meal (at least three times a day) in order to prevent the buildup of food and plaque in the mouth. It is important that, whatever your situation, you make sure to brush your teeth in the morning and at night before going to bed, as well as flossing daily to get in between the braces and teeth where your brush cannot reach. Your orthodontist can show you how to brush and floss effectively once your braces are in place.
If I have braces, do I still need to have dental checkups every six months?

It is important that you continue to see your regular dentist every six months, even during orthodontic treatment, for routine dental checkups and teeth cleanings. If extra care is needed, we are happy to coordinate with your dentist to ensure you are receiving the best care possible.

Will braces interfere with activities like sports, playing an instrument, or singing?

You can of course continue your activities and extracurriculars while wearing braces, although you may need to take a few precautions to keep your braces and mouth safe. We do recommend wearing a mouth guard for protection during contact sports and it may require a little adjustment if you play an instrument like the trumpet or the flute, but it is perfectly safe to do so.

Invisalign

What is Invisalign treatment?

Invisalign clear aligners are an advanced system of clear, removable aligners that gradually and effectively straighten your teeth without the need for the metal brackets or wires of traditional braces. They are made of advanced patented SmartTrack material, a flexible plastic which applies gentle, constant force to improve the control of tooth movements and straighten your teeth more predictably. 

 

Invisalign clear aligners are a popular choice for many reasons, including… 

  • Virtually invisible
  • Faster treatment
  • Better fit
  • Comfortable
  • Proven results
  • Convenient 
Who qualifies for Invisalign treatment?

When treated with Invisalign treatment by an experienced orthodontist, like Dr. Varone, a Diamond Plus provider, almost everyone can be treated with Invisalign for effective results! Invisalign clear aligners can be an effective solution for both adults and teens looking for a comfortable and nearly invisible method to achieve their perfect smile. 

What does it mean to be an Invisalign Diamond Plus provider?
Diamond Plus is the highest status that an orthodontist can earn and is Invisalign’s way of recognizing the top 1% of Invisalign providers in North America. It requires that an orthodontist complete at least 800 total cases and continues to perform 200 cases every 6 months (400 a year)! As a Diamond Plus provider, Dr. Varone is by far the most highly qualified orthodontist in her region to address almost every case, no matter how complex, using Invisalign clear aligners.

For more orthodontic questions, please refer to the American Association of Orthodontists 

Becky

Orthodontic Assistant

ln 1993 Becky entered the Orthodontic field in Massachusetts, where she was born and raised. Visiting Florida as a child, she always knew she would become a permanent resident someday. The favorite part of her job is to help create beautiful smiles and watch patients evolve throughout treatment and gain confidence. She is married to her husband Chris and have a wonderful daughter Miranda and a kitty named Sox. Her family enjoys going to Disney and cheering on the Red Sox, Patriots and the Bruins.

Sally

Orthodontic Assistant

ln 2001 she chose the Orthodontic field and has never looked back. She strives to keep patients comfortable, informed and uplifted while in her chair during treatment time. She loves what she is doing and looks forward to many more years of creating smiles that last a lifetime.

Abbie

Orthodontic Assistant

Abbie is 24 years old, born and raised in Manatee County, and recently engaged. She became an Orthodontic Assistant in 2019. ln her free time, she enjoys singing a cappella music with friends and competing in music competitions around the U.S. She loves being part of the Varone Team and looks forward to many more amazing times to come.

Ally

Orthodontic Assistant

Ally became an Orthodontic Assistant in 2020. She loves this field of work because she helps people feeI more confident about their smiles. She enjoys listening to music and attending concerts. On her days off she usually hangs out with friends and family.

Carrie

Orthodontic Assistant

Carrie grew up in mid-Michigan and moved to Sarasota, and was very glad to get out of the cold weather. She has been an assistant for 37 years, which 14 of those have been with Dr. Varone. Our doctor, staff and patients are the highlight of her career. Carrie is married and has 2 children.

Rosemary

Insurance Coordinator

Rosemary verifies insurance for our patients and then follows up on claims after they are submitted to the insurance company. This is very time consuming with changes being made all the time. When she is not in the office she enjoys spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. She leads a very active life that includes travel, pickleball and regular workouts at the gym. She also teaches yoga and has recently started ballroom dancing lessons. She has been with us since January 2019.

Rosa

Reception/Insurance

Rosa was originally from North Jersey and has been in the field since 2006 as a patient coordinator, reception and insurance processor. She loves working with patients and their smiles, white fostering strong relationships with an empathetic approach to scheduling and financial discussions with those patients. She has a passion for creating a welcoming environment, ensuring all patients feet like they are treated as family. She is always building trust and showing that Varone Orthodontics is reliable and caring. Rosa has been with us since December 2021 . ln her spare time, she enjoys going to the beach for long walks and spending lots of time with family.

Diane

Front Desk Administrator

Diane has worked in the orthodontic field since 2006. Her favorite thing about orthodontics is seeing the beautiful change in the patients from start to finish. She loves to help patients and co-workers whenever possible. Diane is a native of Bowling Green coming to Lakewood Ranch area in 1984. When she is not at the office she enjoys spending time with her fiance, Tom, and her granddaughters Skylynn and Sarah.

Sally

Treatment Care Coordinator

Originally from the United Kingdom, Sally has worked in orthodontics since 2003 and has her certification in Orthodontic assisting. Sally loves working in orthodontics because it’s fun, we work hard, but we are always smiling and laughing. Sally also enjoys spending time with her husband, Ed, her dogs and 2 daughters. Her favorite things to do are traveling, watching Liverpool FC and reading a good book while relaxing by the pool or at the beach.

DONNA

Office Manager and Financial Administrator

Donna moved to Florida in 2003. She grew up and raised her family in Jamestown, NY. Donna Joined Dr. Varone when the practice opened in 2005 as the office coordinator and she has enjoyed seeing all of the beautiful smiles walk out the door since then. She loves spending time with family and friends and going to her grandson’s baseball games. Donna resides in Lakewood Ranch with her husband. They have three grown children, two grandsons and a Bernie doodle, Roxie.