Yes. Once treatment begins, we will explain our complete instructions and provide you with a comprehensive list of foods to avoid. Some of those foods include ice, hard candy, raw vegetables and all sticky foods (i.e. caramel and taffy). You can avoid most repair appointments by carefully following our instructions!
Patient Resources
You can't find a better home for your smile than Bourne Orthodontics. You will find below all the information you need to get started.
Patient Forms
*These forms require Adobe Acrobat Reader. Click the Adobe logo to download.
Online Forms
Please open the appropriate form below and fill it out before your first appointment. It will require an email address or a cell phone number.
*If you are unable to finish your forms at one time, your progress will be saved, & you can return later to complete your form.
*We will automatically be notified when your forms are complete.
- New Patient Forms – ADULT
- New Patient Form – CHILD
- Parental Consent Letter (consent for person other then parent/guardian to accompany patient to appointment)
Refer Our Office
A successful practice doesn’t just happen. It is the result of a strong commitment to excellence in our treatment and in our relationships with patients and other doctors.
We’d like to take a moment to thank you for showing your confidence in our practice by recommending us to your friends, family and colleagues.
We’re gratified to find how many new patients regularly call on us based on your words of advice!
Printable Forms
For your convenience, you may download, print and fill out the following forms and bring them to your next appointment:
Adult Patients
Child Patients
Sponsorships
At Bourne Orthodontics, we are proud to support a variety of sports, educational, and community organizations through sponsorships.
To submit a sponsorship request, please complete a Sponsorship Application Form and email it to [email protected], drop it off at our office, or mail it to either one of our locations.
Download Sponsorship Application Form
Please note that all sponsorship requests require a completed Sponsorship Application Form. Due to the overwhelming number of requests that we receive each year, first priority will be given to patients who are currently in orthodontic treatment, and we ask for your understanding that it is not possible for us to approve all requests that are received.
Videos
What To Expect on Your First Visit?
Here is what you can expect from you first dental visit at Bourne Orthodontics:
We look forward to meeting you on your first visit to our office, which is performed at no charge. During this time, we will help you get acquainted with our office and learn about your orthodontic treatment.
We understand that each patient’s orthodontic treatment is different, and we promise to give you the personal attention you deserve. Your first orthodontic visit will consist of an examination and discussion of potential treatment options, approximate duration of treatment, and estimated fees.
We will then provide you with a written summary of these details, and be sure to answer any questions you may have.
Common Problems We Correct
When a person’s teeth or jaws do not fit together properly, orthodontic treatment may be necessary to correct the problem. If left untreated, these orthodontic problems, often referred to as malocclusions, can cause speech difficulty, premature wear of the teeth and protective enamel, and even increase the chance of injury to the teeth and jaw joints.
Underbite
An underbite is characterized by the lower jaw extending too far out, causing the lower front teeth to sit in front of the upper front teeth. Such a dental condition not only affects the alignment and appearance of one’s smile but can also lead to difficulties in chewing and speaking, as well as potential strain on the jaw joints.
Crossbite
This malocclusion occurs when the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, which may cause tooth stratification and misaligned jaw growth. In order to close the mouth, patients usually move their lower jaw forward or to the side when closing. This incorrect bite results in an improper use of the lower jaws and sometimes brings about facial asymmetry.
Upper Front Teeth Protrusion
The appearance and function of your teeth are impacted by this type of bite. It is characterized by the upper teeth extending too far forward or the lower teeth not extending far enough forward.
Overbite
The upper front teeth extend too far out over the lower front teeth, sometimes causing the lower front teeth to bite into the roof of the mouth. Problems often associated with an overbite include a “gummy” smile, protruding lips and excessive incisor wear.
Crowding
Crowding occurs when teeth have insufficient room to erupt from the gums. It is the most common reason for braces. Not only is crowding unattractive, but it has also been linked to periodontal problems and dental decay because it is harder to clean overlapping teeth’s surfaces.
Spacing
Spacing problems may be caused by missing teeth, or they may only be a cosmetic or aesthetic issue. Spacing is another popular reason for braces. The opposite of crowding, spacing is most commonly caused by excessive jaw room for the size of the erupting teeth.
Openbite
Proper chewing is impacted by this type of bite, in which the upper and lower front teeth do not overlap. Openbite may cause a number of unwanted habits, such as tongue thrusting or thumb sucking. An early evaluation and intervention is essential in correcting an openbite.
Dental Midlines not Matched
Dental midlines that are misaligned become noticeable when the back bite does not align correctly. This misalignment can have a significant impact on the overall function of the jaw and the effectiveness of dental processes. When the dental midlines are not in harmony, it can lead to issues with biting, chewing, and even speech.
Do You Have Any Questions?
Consult our FAQ below or give us a call!
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Why should an orthodontic specialist complete my treatment?
Teeth, and sometimes entire facial structures, are permanently changed by orthodontic treatment. It is important that the treatment be appropriate and properly completed. Orthodontic specialists have extensive and specialized training that enables them to provide their patients with professional, personalized treatments.
Orthodontists undergo additional specialized training accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation, totaling 3,700 hours. This comprehensive program focuses exclusively on the intricacies of teeth, jawbones, facial bones, and soft tissue movement, enhancing their expertise in growth and development, known as dentofacial orthopedics.
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At what age should I schedule an appointment for an orthodontic screening?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening at age 7. For most children, several permanent teeth have erupted by this age, allowing the orthodontist to effectively evaluate the patient’s orthodontic condition.
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Will my teeth straighten out as I grow and get older?
No, they will not. The space available for the front teeth does not increase as you grow. In most people, after the permanent molars erupt, the space available for the front teeth decreases with age.
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Is it too late to have orthodontic treatment if I’m already an adult?
No patient is “too old” for orthodontic treatment! A surprising percentage of our patients are adults. In fact, 25 percent of all orthodontic patients are adults. Health and happiness are vitally important to adults, and orthodontic treatment can increase your self-esteem at any age!
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How long will it take to complete treatment?
Overall treatment time depends on each patient’s specific orthodontic problem(s). In general, treatment times range from 12 to 30 months. The “average” timespan a patient wears braces is approximately 22 months.
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How often will I have an appointment?
Appointments are scheduled according to each patient’s needs. Most patients in orthodontic treatment will be seen every 8 to 10 weeks. If there are specific situations that require more frequent monitoring, we will schedule appointments accordingly.
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Can I drop my child off for an appointment?
Yes. We understand your schedule is busy, and we are happy to help you make the most of your time. On some occasions, we may request to speak with a parent when they return, so we ask that parents check-in with their patient manager before dropping off their child.
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Is orthodontic treatment painful?
Generally, orthodontic treatments do not “hurt.” After certain appointments, your teeth may be sore for a few days. In these situations, over-the-counter pain medications, such as Advil or Tylenol, will ease the discomfort. However, after most visits, patients do not feel any soreness at all! We often remind our patients, “It does not have to hurt to work!”
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Can I continue playing sports or musical instruments while undergoing orthodontic treatment?
Yes! We recommend that patients wear mouthguards while playing sports. Musicians will likely experience an adjustment period until they are comfortable playing while undergoing orthodontic treatment.
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Do I need to see my general dentist during the orthodontic treatment process?
Yes! Regular check-ups with your general dentist are important while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Your dentist will determine the intervals between each cleaning appointment during the treatment period.
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How often should I brush my teeth while receiving orthodontic treatment?
Patients should brush their teeth at least four times each day – after each meal and before going to bed. We will also show you how to floss your teeth during the treatment period, and we may provide a prescription for a special fluoride treatment, if necessary.
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Are there any foods I cannot eat while undergoing orthodontic treatment?
Ready to Start Your Smile Journey?
We’re here to help you any way possible.