FAQ

At McAllen Orthodontic Group, we understand that starting orthodontic treatment comes with a lot of questions. Dr. Ryan and our team are here to make sure you feel confident and informed every step of the way. Below are some of the most common questions we hear from patients and families in the McAllen area.

Both dentists and orthodontists care for your teeth, but they focus on different areas. Dentists handle general care like cleanings, fillings, and crowns. Orthodontists like Dr. Ryan complete several additional years of specialty training focused on diagnosing and correcting alignment and bite problems using braces and other orthodontic tools. If you’re looking to straighten teeth or correct your bite, an orthodontist is the specialist to see.

If you’re wondering whether braces might be necessary, here are some common signs Dr. Ryan looks for during consultations:

  • Crowded or overlapping teeth
  • Gaps between teeth
  • Overbite, underbite, or open bite
  • Difficulty chewing or biting
  • Jaw shifting or clicking sounds
  • Prolonged thumb-sucking habits in children

If you or your child are experiencing any of these, Dr. Ryan can evaluate your smile and explain whether orthodontic treatment is recommended.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic checkup by age 7. At this age, we can spot developing bite or jaw issues early while growth is still happening, giving your child the best chance for a healthy, confident smile.

Orthodontics isn’t just about aesthetics. Treatment can also:

  • Improve jaw function and bite alignment
  • Make oral hygiene easier by straightening teeth
  • Prevent long-term wear or damage
  • Enhance speech and chewing ability
  • Boost confidence with a more attractive smile

Treatment time varies from person to person. Many patients finish in about 18 to 24 months, though some cases are shorter and more complex ones may take longer. At your first consultation, Dr. Ryan will provide a personalized timeline so you’ll know what to expect.

Most patients come in every 4 to 8 weeks. These visits are usually short and allow the orthodontist to check progress, make adjustments, and keep everything moving on track. Staying on schedule helps make sure your treatment finishes on time.

No. Routine orthodontic treatment does not require shots. Braces, clear aligners, and regular adjustments are completed without injections.

Yes, retainers help maintain your results after your braces come off. You’ll usually wear it full time for a few months, then at night to keep your teeth from shifting over time.

Even with treatment, teeth can move slightly over time due to chewing, clenching, or natural aging. Wearing your retainer as directed is the best way to keep your smile aligned.

Yes, we welcome transfer patients. Whether you’ve moved to McAllen or are switching providers, we’ll review your current progress and work with you to complete your treatment smoothly.

If you’ve been advised by your doctor to take antibiotics before dental or orthodontic procedures, for example, due to a heart condition or joint replacement, it’s important to let us know before your appointment. We’ll review your medical history and follow any necessary precautions to ensure your safety during treatment. If you’re unsure, we’re happy to coordinate with your physician for guidance.

Yes. If something breaks or feels painful, give us a call right away. We’ll give you advice on what to do and schedule an emergency visit if needed. For more guidance, check out our emergency care page.