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1. Why is orthodontics important?
Orthodontic treatment is about shaping beautiful smiles, while improving and maintaining good dental health. The fit of teeth (occlusion) is a very important factor in the longevity of the natural dentition. Orthodontics can boost a person's self-esteem as teeth, jaws and lips properly align.

2. When should my child first see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontics (AAO) recommends that every child get an orthodontic screening by age 7. By taking advantage of the growth years, Dr. Stich can spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth and possibly influence their development to create the best bite and smile. Your child may not need orthodontic treatment at the time of this first examination; however, you will have the peace of mind that comes with a professional evaluation.

3. Is it ever too late for a person to get braces?
Healthy teeth can be moved at almost any age. An attractive, healthy smile is a quality that will help anyone at any age, personally and professionally. Many of our adults wear the clear, ceramic braces, and are our most transformed patients when their treatment is finished.

4. How long has Dr. Stich been serving the community of Coppell?
Dr. Stich has made a full time commitment to the Coppell community since 1987, when he and his wife moved to Coppell and established an orthodontic practice. Dr. Stich participates as a business partner to all of the middle schools in Coppell ISD, as well as Barbara Bush Middle School in Valley Ranch. Dr. Stich has demonstrated a long-term commitment to this community by offering a bicycle safety program to all elementary schools, sponsoring many school and community programs, as well as supporting area charities. Coppell is a community that Dr. Stich works in, lives in and cares about making it an even better place. Click here to visit the City of Coppell site.

5. Does Dr. Stich have any satellite offices?
No. Dr. Stich and his staff are committed exclusively to the Coppell community. Excellent customer service, convenience for our patients, and availability for emergencies is difficult without a full time commitment to one location.

6. What is the charge for the first visit?
Children that visit our office will receive necessary radiographs, a thorough exam, discussion of orthodontic problems and treatment plan presentation by Dr. Stich at no charge to determine the child's specific and individual needs. Patients and their parents will become very well informed. Dr. Stich provides these same patient examination services for adults, for a fee of $125.00. This amount will then be applied to the contract fee once you begin treatment.

7. How long will I have to wear braces?
In general, active treatment time with orthodontic appliances ranges from 12 to 30 months. The actual time depends upon the difficulty of the original problem, the development of the patient's jaws and teeth, and the cooperation of the patient. The better the patient is about wearing and taking care of his or her appliances, braces or retainer, the sooner teeth will improve.

8. Why do I need a retainer?
Retainer wear is simple, but important. A retainer holds the patient's teeth in their new place. Our retention treatment is an important aspect of our treatment philosophy because Dr. Stich wants to see beautiful smiles on his patients for all of their life. We routinely take the extra time to deliver a permanent retainer on our patient's teeth, which eliminates loss of retainers or lack of retainer wear. Excellence in retention is as important as excellence during braces and should be considered when deciding upon an orthodontic care provider. Click here for more information regarding retainers.

9. Is this going to hurt?
It is common to experience some discomfort during the first few days after appliances are fitted. A few comfort tips are:

• Take pain reliever, such as Advil or Tylenol
• Eat softer foods than normal
• Rinse with warm, salted water