Ask Dr. Gorman!
Below are past questions Dr. Gorman has answered.

Subject: Sore Teeth

Name: Greg

Q: Will my teeth be sore after my appointment?

A: Possibly for a couple of days. If so, take 1 Advil and 1 Tylenol for discomfort.

Subject: Clear braces

Name: Tiffany

Q: Do the clear brackets discolor?

A: No they are made of a ceramic material that does not discolor.

Subject: lingual braces

Name: Marc Olsen

Q: Dr. Gorman I'm contemplating starting some lingual cases in my practice. I just recieved the hidden braces brochure and wondered if you have tried them out and if so what you think of their product. When you get a moment and can return a comment I would appreciate it very much. Sincerely Dr. Marc Olsen..IU class of 2000

A: Marc It is great to hear from you and even better that you are going to treat some lingual cases. I have not seen or tried the 'hidden braces' but will look into them. Please let me know how things are going. Courtney

Subject: My teeth

Name: Alayna Martin

Q: I came to the your office about a month ago and you wanted to put braces on both bottom and top. My bottom teeth are almost all the way straight but the two teeth that just grew in are still coming up and i think they're going to be straight. My top teeth are straight except for a gap in between my two front teeth. I just wanted to know if there is another way besides braces that will fix my teeth, because my mom doesn't really want to pay for the braces and i dont really want braces, so if there is another way please write me back. Sincerely, Alayna

A: Alayna, I Checked out your records on our computers. If your other teeth erupted(came in) the way they were supposed to then I believe that there may be some limited treatment that we could do for you. All you need to do is come back in and let me check. Have a great day! Dr. Gorman

Subject: Other options

Name: Bonita

Q: Do you pursue other options for patients with bite problems besides braces? If a patient is more concerned with improving the bite than with appearance of the teeth, would you consider a functional approach that is not aesthetically optimized? (for instance, reshaping teeth that are in interference to stop crossbite)

A: Hi, Yes there are other options for correcting 'bites' without braces Invisalign is a good example. As far as correcting only the functional problems and not the aesthetic ones that is possible but usually they can be completed at the same time and with the same appliances so why not get a new smile with your better bite. Merry Christmas

Subject: basketball retainer's???

Name: Ramie Harris

Q: Why don't you hve bball retainers!!! IF you can not find this style or way to make it plz give me a place that I can look for them. More graphics on the reatainers could never hurt!:)

A: Ramie, We do have basketball retainers just ask Michi next time she can make anything

Subject: Retainer!

Name: Karla Coble

Q: I seem to lose my retainer ALL the time. I some times find it in my friends car or in my coat pocket. Right now I believe to have lost it in a school parking lot. I love wearing the reatainer every day because I have a nervous habit of biting my cheek,tongue,or lip and the retainer stops this from happening. So my question is do you have an idea of how I could not lose my retainer. Maybe if I had 2 of them it would help. But I really need to wear the retainer all the time because of the nervous habit. See you Soon! ~Karla P.S. You may not know how much I have apprictiated your work! Thanks So Much for making me have beautiful teeth!

A: Hi Karla My suggestion is to keep a retainer case with you at all times in your pocket or purse. Those we will give you extras. Then get into the habit of using it all the time. Two retainers would just mean one more to lose and you don't want that!

Subject: Gap starting in middle of two front teeth

Name: Christina Chapman

Q: My daughter Madison Klender Dob: 11-14-95 has a quad put on by Dr.Gorman (aprox 6 months ago)Her teeth looked beautiful things were starting to straighten out. Than her Quad broke and Dr. Gorman put on a different quad now her teeth seem to be gaping in the front is this normal? Her teeth are starting to look like prior to the first quad. Madison does not come back untill March. Thanks!

A: Hi That is normal when we put in the new quad it was activated again and Madison's jaw is getting a little wider again. After awhile the front two teeth will again drift together. If you are still concerned don't hesitate to call me. Have a great day. Dr. Gorman

Subject: Interested in becoming an assitant

Name: Jodi King

Q: Hi! I was about a patient about four years ago!!! I am in college now previously in the radiology technology program. I was just wondering how you became one of the girls who tighten braces and stuff. I was interested in that field to. Thanks for your time! Jodi King

A: Hi Jodi There really is no program for Orthodontic assistants so we have our own Ortho U during the first year we provide both book and hands on training. There are videos to watch, models to work on and wires to bend. Assistants must also pass a radiology exam to get their license. Your college degree in radiology would certainly be helpful

Subject: lingual orthodontics

Name: ouazzani ali

Q: i am an orthodontist from morocco.i have been practicing for more than 8 years .I want to introduce lingual in my daily practice , is there any course or clinical program to attend .I have already followed dr wiechman's course in paris but i think that typodont course is not enough . what can you advice for me ? I am a friend and a student of dr wick Alexander .I will be in arlington during the first week of june . Yours sincerly , Ali .

A: Ali I believe the person giving the most courses is Dr Raffi Romano Check out the yahoo group Lingualortho there are many answers there and many courses available. I also believe that the ELSO is meeting in Paris in Sept. Hope this helps courtney

Subject: retainers

Name: Alexandria Collier

Q: i lost my retainer and i need a new one do you think i could get an extension on it maybe at the end of july or in the middle, because i am gettin a job but not till july. thanks bye

A: Alex It depends on how long your braces have been off and how long it has been since you lost your Retainers. Come in and we will check then you can decide when you want to get them. Dr. Gorman

Subject: Adult Orthodontics

Name: Dottie

Q: As an adult, I am looking to have my teeth straightened (meaning I will have to fit the total bill), is there a major cost difference between the regular braces vrs the invisalign? Will the invisalign work on an overbite? Great website!

A: Hi Dottie Invisalign will correct most problems. However a consultation would be required to insure that aligners are right for you. As far as expense there is a 20% higher fee to cover laboratory expenses. Dr. Gorman ps I'm glad you like our site

Subject: retainers

Name: jamie miracle

Q: i have not been there in a while. i los t my retainers and i was wondering if i still could get another pair since it has been soon long.

A: Yes Jamie Just call the office and we will set up an apt. for you.

Subject: Do you have invisalign braces?

Name: Schyler Potter

Q: I have to have braces but I don't want them. I thought that Invisalign would be the right thing for me. And you are my brother's(Randall Potter's) orthodonist so I want'd to know if you have Invisalign braces. Do you? Email me back. Sincerely, Schyler Potter

A: Yes Schyler, we do treat with Invisalign. I will have someone from our office contact you so we can set up an appointment.

Subject: Wisdom Teeth

Name: Courtney

Q: Hi! Dr. Gorman, I was just in your office and you informed me that I needed to get my wisdom teeth taken out and all of my friends said it was a very painful procedure. Could you fill me in on what to expect when I get them out? Thanks

A: The procedure is pain free because you are asleep. When you wake up you will still be numb and your Oral Surgeon will prescribe pain medication. Everyone is different but most people have some discomfort for a day or two. Others have discomfort for longer and some have no pain at all. Remember the longer you wait the more the roots grow and that means more toe extract.

Subject: Lingual Braces

Name: Alyssa Osborne

Q: Are lingual braces available for anyone?

A: Yes, Alyssa Lingual braces are available for most patients. Many patients also have the option of Invisalign another treatment option.

Subject: Invisalign braces

Name: J.W.

Q: I heard ( from many people ) that you and your father patened (invented ) the invisalign braces is that true ??? Curious customer ....

A: No, that is not accurate. My father was one of the team that developed ORMCO Lingual (behind the teeth) braces. Invisalign is another form of orthodontic treatment to straighten teeth without braces. We did not develope this technique but have used it for years. If you are interested in an exam please call our office 765-662-0018 and I will be glad to discuss your orthodontic concerns.

Subject: help!

Name: Stephany

Q: I am 20 years old and have been self conscious about my teeth all my life. Ive been called donkey, horse, rabbit because not only are my top teeth too far forward, my gums also show a lot when I smile. I dread braces, I would rather have a million surgical procedures than to have braces, are there any other options besides braces? Also, I live in NY do you have a facility in NY Or recommend anyone in the NY area? Thanks.

A: Hi Stephany, First of all I would love to help you but unfortunately I do not have a facility in New York. What I can tell you is that there is a solution to your problem. With Invisalign, Lingual Orthodontics (braces behind your teeth), Laser treatment of your gums, and in severe cases a combination of the above and surgery you can have a beautiful smile. With out an examination it is impossible to tell you exactly what you require but I am confident that there is a great treatment option for you with out having a metal mouth. The one thing I recommend is not to go for a quick fix like capping all your teeth or even worse having some removed then replacing them with a bridge. If you have healthy teeth the best and most esthetic results come from putting them in the right place. Thank you for your question, Dr. Gorman

Subject: The Smile Ride

Name: Bo

Q: How do I hire the Smile Ride?

A: The Smile Ride is for our patients. Your school has to be participating and your parents have to sign up in the office. You can give us a call and we can help you out.

Subject: retainer

Name: Mark

Q: I have worn a retainer for about a year now and have worn it consistantly every night. I am going on a camping trip for four days and am not keen on taking my retainer in case i lose it. would it be ok not to wear my retainer for 4 days? will my teeth move?

A: Hi Mark Even if you stop wearing your retainers for just 4 days you're teeth will move but just a little. I would suggest leaving them at home and when you return if they are tight wear them all of the time for a couple of days then go back to night time wear. No need to risk a bear stealing them!

Subject: Perm retainer after braces

Name: Cac

Q: Dr.Gorman is there a way once braces are taken off that a perm retainer can be put on behind the teeth instead of the kind that come in and out every day? My friend I work with has a perm retainer behind her top teeth and it's worked great for years. What is the cost for something like this?

A: Yes in most cases for the lower teeth a permanent retainer can be used, for the upper teeth it just depends on the case. We charge the same for all types of retainers. The replacement cost for one of our current patients is 158$ per retainer. Hope this helps! Dr. G

Subject: retainer

Name: Kayla (Runyan) Holloway

Q: My braces have been off quite awhile but my dog ate my retainer about 5 yrs ago and I never had the money to get a replacement. I'm now living in Indy but I was wondering how much a top retainer replacement would cost? Thanks for your time.

A: it is different everywhere in our off the cost for 1 replacement retainer for one of our patients is $158. Hope this helps! Dr. G

Subject: Retainer

Name: Kayla (Runyan) Holloway

Q: How much is a replacement retainer?

A: They are $158 apiece Hope this helps Dr. G

Subject: Recycling?

Name: M. Reed

Q: Dr. Gorman, do you always use new appliances on your patients? I've heard of "recycling" braces and other appliances, and personally, I find the idea revolting.

A: Yes we always use new appliances!

Subject: Retainer

Name: April Cox

Q: i have a over bite do i need a retainer?

A: If you have and overbite you probably need more than just braces.

Subject: treatment

Name: Shane Smith

Q: Dr. Gorman, My name is Shane Smith and I am 27 years old. I can to your office several year ago; however, I did not go through with the treatment. I have an underbite and crossbite..I am having terrible headaches and jaw pain now...I was looking into this lingual braces that go behind your teeth...Do you offer those? What is a rough estimate of treatment time and cost. Thanks Shane Smith

A: Hi Shane, as a mater of fact we do use lingual braces (those behind the teeth) and my father and I have been pioneers in the development of this type of treatment. As far as time and cost come on in and I can give you an exact fee and a good estimate of the length of treatment. Have a great day Dr. G

Subject: Oral Surgery

Name: Nicole Turnbo

Q: Hello, I currently have no dental insurance. An orthodontist has refused to fit me for braces saying I have to have a surgically assisted palatal expansion. Do you offer this surgery? If so, what are your typical costs? I am prepared for paying up front. I am now 28 and it has been my dream all my life to get my braces. I hope to have them before I am 30 years old. Thanks, Nicole

A: Hi Nicole I do not perform surgery but do place the appliances necessary for it. In many cases though you can avoid the surgery by simple palatal expansion. To tell if you are a candidate would require a simple exam for which there would be no charge. If you are interested please call my office and schedule an exam Hope this helps Dr G

Subject: about braces

Name: Katelyn

Q: okayy. for bracess is there a plan that you can pay monthly? Because I do not have enough money for it all at once.

A: Yes we do have payment plans. To find out what you need all you have to do is schedule a consultation (no fee) and we can then give you all the information you need. Hope this helps! Dr. G

Subject: costs

Name: Katelyn

Q: okayy...i neeed braces like really bad. but i do not have the money for themm...at least not all at once..do you hav plans that insure a monthly cost instead of upfront to pay them off?

A: Yes we do! Just come in and we can find out what will work for you!

Subject: Please Answer

Name: Mike hawk

Q: Is it true if a couple who both have braces kiss they will be locked together?

A: Of course! and driving them to the orthodontist if tough!

Subject: Switching from braces to Invisalign

Name: Sondra King

Q: Hi Dr. Gorman, My question is about switching from the regular braces to Invisalign. I wanted to know if it's possible to do that and how much of a price difference it would be for me to do this. The reason I ask is because I'm going to be doing a lot of speaking in front of large groups within the next year, and I would like to be able to do that without the braces showing... I'm sure you know how that goes. If you could please let me know that would be greatly appreciated. Thank You!!!

A: Yes you can. As an active patient of mine you would be responsible for the invisalign lab fee only.

Subject: Expander

Name: Ashley

Q: Why do i have to have my expander in my mouth for 8 more weeks without turning it. Then have something else in my mouth in July. Then have braces sometime after that?

A: Ashley, if the expander were removed right away and not replaced the bones that we moved apart would move back together. In most Ortho offices they just leave the expander in for 9 to 12 months. I prefer to replace the expander with a more comfortable appliance that is why we change it in July. The reason we are waiting for the braces is because I want to wait until most of your permanent teeth have grown in that way you wear you braces for less time! Hope this answered all your questions. Dr. G

Subject: VENEERS

Name: PENNY

Q: HOW MUCH ARE PORCELAIN VEENERS FOR 6 TEETH? OR MAYBE 4 TEETH? AND DOES INS. COVER IT? IS THERE A PAYMENT PLAN?

A: I am an Orthodontist so I do not do veeners I would align your teeth. That way you would have your a beautiful smile!

Subject: retainer

Name: hayden

Q: can you guys make a softabll retainer?

A: Do you mean a softball design or a mouth guard for softball? We can make either!

Subject: Retainers

Name: Bailey T

Q: Hello! I have not been in for a few years and have lost my top retainer. Can I order a new one and how much does a clear and metal retainer cost? Thanks!

A: Hi Bailey yes we can make a new retainer but we must make a new impression first. The cost is $158 and it is important to get a new one before your teeth start to move! Hope this helps. Dr. G

Subject: Braces

Name: Heather Hyden

Q: I had braces on the top 4 teeth then had a full mouth. My daughter is 7 and looks like she will have the same problem. When is a good time to have her seen? Is she too young now?

A: Hi Heather, Yes 7 is the perfect time to be checked. That way we can pick the perfect time to start!

Subject: Chipmunk Rubberbands

Name: Micayla Christensen

Q: I was just wandering, what the chipmunk rubberbands do for my teeth?

A: Hi Micayla! The purpose of the Chipmunks is to make your teeth 'fit' together. Right now they don't fit as well as they will after you wear the rubber bands. If teeth don't 'fit' well they wont work as well that is why it is important you wear them 27/7. Dr G

Subject: teeth looses

Name: robert

Q: hi. ive had braces for 9 months. I hadve a dep overbite. my teeth used to be slightly very slighly loose if i bit ddown hard. now i have noticed that the loosening has become worse. My gums are in perfect condition and the re is nothign wrong with my roots. please help me.

A: Hi Robert Maybe nothing if your lower teeth are being intruded then they may loosen even more during movement then tighten up later. If you are one of my patients then be sure to ask me to check at your next apt. if not then make sure to make your orthodontist aware of the problem. Happy New Year Dr. G

Subject: teeth

Name: faith warren

Q: Is it normal for adult teeth not to break the surface?

A: Faith It depends on the age but no it is not normal for adult teeth to break the surface. It is a good idea to come in and let me take a look to find the cause of the problem.

Subject: TMJ

Name: Melissa

Q: I had braces back in the late 60's and jaw alignment was not considered. Now I am having TMJ problems that cannot be resolved with the mouth piece that was supposed to give me relief by a TMJ specialist. Can orthodontics help with this?

A: Hi Melissa It would take a full exam to determine if your bite is one of the causes of your TMJ problems if it is then by looking at you and your 'mouth piece' we could determine if Orthodontics can help. In many cases it can!

Subject: Braces

Name: Neely King

Q: Does it hurt when you have your braces put on????

A: Hi Neely, NO!! It does not hurt to have your braces put on. We bond (kinda like gluing) the braces right on the teeth so the only thing you feel are the cheek retractors. They are used to hold your lips and cheeks away from your teeth so they stay dry. Hope to see you some day. Dr. G

Subject: braces

Name: Kandice

Q: I was just wondering, do I have to be referred by a dentist in order to get braces, or can i get them just because i want them?

A: Hi Kandice NO you do not need a referral for braces you just need to call and we can set up an exam! Have a great day! Dr. G

Subject: Braces

Name: Neely King

Q: Can you have colored bands on gold braces?

A: Yes! You can have colored 'Os' an ANY brace!

Subject: Braces

Name: Kayla Koch

Q: I just got braces not to long ago, is it normal for your teeth to hurt so bad, and are unable to chew food?

A: It is not usual but also not un normal to have your teeth hurt just after having your braces placed. I you weigh more than 100 lbs and have no problems taking Tylenol or Advil 2 Tylenol and 3 Advil will take care of the pain. Dr. G

Subject: braces

Name: mandi

Q: how long does it take to get a full set of braces glued on your teeth?

A: We usually just put the top braces on the first time. That usually takes about an hour with the wire and colors! Dr. G