Dr. King answers the questions families in Chanhassen, Eden Prairie, Victoria, Chaska, Minnetonka, and Waconia ask most often. Still have one? Call 952-470-2627 or request a complimentary exam.
When should my child see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first check around age 7. That visit is not always about starting braces. Dr. King looks at jaw growth, crowding, crossbites, and habits so we can time treatment instead of rushing it. Many kids only need to be watched. The first exam, consultation, and x-ray are complimentary.
Do you treat adults?
Yes. A large part of the practice is teens and adults. Spark clear aligners and Damon clear braces are both options if you want a more discreet look. Adult plans are built around work, travel, and how your bite and smile actually function, not a one-size template.
What happens at the first visit?
You meet Dr. King. He does a comprehensive exam, reviews photos and x-rays, and explains findings in plain language. If treatment is recommended, you leave knowing the plan, timing, and financial options. The exam, consultation, and x-ray are complimentary. There is no pressure to start the same day.
What is the difference between Damon braces and traditional braces?
Damon braces are self-ligating. They use small doors instead of elastic ties to hold the wire. That usually means lighter force, easier cleaning, and fewer tightening appointments. Dr. King also uses Damon because it lets him plan tooth movement and facial balance together. Traditional braces can still work well. The first visit is where he tells you which makes sense for you.
What are Spark clear aligners?
Spark is a clear aligner system. Each tray moves teeth a small amount according to a custom plan. Aligners are removable for eating and brushing, and they are much less noticeable than braces. They are a good fit for many teens and adults. They are not the best tool for every bite. Dr. King will tell you if Spark, braces, or a combination is the better path.
How do I know if I need braces or aligners?
It depends on the bite, tooth position, and how much control the case needs. Aligners are excellent for many crowding and spacing cases. Braces are often better when teeth need more precise root control or the bite is more complex. You do not have to choose before you come in. That decision is part of the complimentary exam.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Most full treatments fall in a range of about 14 to 18 months. Simple cases can be shorter. Growth, bite, and how well trays or elastics are worn all change the timeline. Dr. King will give you a realistic range before you start.
Do braces or aligners hurt?
You can expect sore teeth for a few days after a start or a wire or tray change. It is usually manageable with soft foods and over-the-counter pain relief. Damon and Spark are both designed around lighter, more controlled force than older heavy-tightening visits.
Do you take insurance? How does payment work?
We work with orthodontic insurance and will review your benefits at the first visit. If you do not have coverage, we still go through payment options before anything starts. Ask the office for current plan details when you schedule. No treatment begins until cost is clear.
What if I lose a retainer?
Call the office. Retainers are what keep the result. We can make replacements in-office with digital records and 3D printing, which is much faster than sending everything out to a lab. If you already have a backup, wear that until we see you.
Why do I need retainers after braces or aligners?
Teeth have a memory. Without retainers they drift, sometimes quickly. Most patients wear retainers full-time at first, then nights long-term. Dr. King will give you a wear schedule that matches your case, not a generic handout.
Do you use digital scans instead of goopy impressions?
Yes. We use an intraoral scanner for digital impressions. No putty. You can breathe and swallow normally, and we can pause if you need to. Those scans are also what we use for aligners, appliances, and in-office retainers.
Where is your orthodontic office located?
Michael King Orthodontics is at 2687 W 78th St, Chanhassen, MN 55317, near Arboretum and Century. We see families from Chanhassen, Eden Prairie, Victoria, Chaska, Minnetonka, Waconia, and the rest of the Southwest Metro. Hours are Monday through Wednesday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM and Thursday 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Call 952-470-2627 or use the contact form to request a complimentary exam, consultation, and x-ray.
Ready to start?
or call 952-470-2627