Why should our family choose Dr. Gorkowitz?
Dr. Gorkowitz performs all of the orthodontic treatment himself, not assistants or associates that don’t have his experience or expertise. This allows him to really get to know his patients and their families and provide orthodontic treatment and services on a much more personal level.
How much does Orthodontic treatment cost?
Financial considerations should not be an obstacle to a beautiful smile. We have low and no down payment extended monthly payment plans. All plans have zero percent interest-free financing . Dr. Gorkowitz will work with you to be the most affordable option while making sure that you still get the finest treatment experience and results.
Do you take my insurance?
We work with almost all insurance companies. If you have dental insurance with orthodontic coverage, we will make sure that you receive every dollar of benefit that you are entitled to. We will complete and file all of the complicated insurance forms for you.All we need is your information and you will receive your benefits with no extra time or effort on your part.
Do I have to be careful with what I eat when I wear braces?
Yes. Please be very careful when eating chewy foods; like bagels, hard rolls, and licorice. Crunchy foods; like popcorn, ice, and chips. Sticky foods; like caramels and taffy. Hard foods; like nuts and hard candies. Biting on hard objects; like pens, pencils or fingernails. Damaged braces will cause orthodontic treatment to last much longer and the result will not be as good.
Will my teeth be tender after I visit the orthodontist?
No, not immediately after your visit with the orthodontist. Several hours later , you may feel some tenderness in your teeth and gums.This can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with warm, salt water. Dissolve one teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water and rinse the saltwater around your mouth vigorously. Also, taking the recommended dose of Advil or Tylenol every 6-8 hours during the first day can relieve some of the tenderness as well.
Is it normal to feel like you have loose teeth when you have braces?
Yes. This is to be expected throughout treatment. Don’t worry. It’s normal. Teeth must loosen first so they can become rigidly fixed in their new positions.
Is it important to take care of your appliances during your orthodontic treatment?
Yes. It is extremely important. Taking good care of your appliances can mean the difference between an extraordinary result and a mediocre result. Poor oral hygiene and multiple broken brackets can seriously compromise the quality and length of your orthodontic treatment. Please take excellent care of your teeth and your orthodontic appliances…It is very important.
Should I wear a mouth guard when I play sports with braces on?
A mouth guard is advised when playing any contact sports; with or without braces. If you are involved in an accident involving the face, check your mouth and appliances immediately. If teeth are loosened or the appliances are damaged, phone our office for an appointment. In the meantime, treat your discomfort as you would treat any general soreness.
What should I do if I have a loose wire, bracket, or band?
Don’t be alarmed if a wire, bracket, or band comes loose. This happens occasionally. If wire protrudes and is irritating, use a blunt instrument ( like the eraser of a pencil) and carefully, gently push the irritating wire under the brace. Simply get it out of the way. If irritation continues, place wax or wet cotton on the wire to reduce the annoyance. Call our office for an appointment to check the appliances.
Do I need to wear retainers when I am finished with my orthodontic treatment?
Yes. Retainers are a very important part of your orthodontic correction. Please wear your retainers exactly as Dr. Gorkowitz prescribes. Clean your retainers once each day with a toothbrush to remove the plaque and eliminate odors. Efferdent appliance cleaner can be used but does not take the place of brushing.
Keep your retainers in the retainer case that we gave you when you aren’t wearing them. Pets love to chew on retainers and will destroy them if they are left out in the open. Remember, retainers are breakable, so treat them with care. If retainers are lost or broken, call us immediately. Always bring your retainers to your appointments. Keep in mind that retainer replacement is expensive…but with proper care, they will last for years.
Contact Dr. Gorkowitz at:
150 Terrace Avenue
Hasbrouck Heights
NJ 07604
(201) 288-2368
114 W. Mt. Pleasant Avenue
Livingston
NJ 07039
(973) 992-7377