Frequently Asked Questions about Orthodontics in Norcross, GA

Research shows that craniofacial growth has significant developmental potential prior to age 7. For this reason, Dr. Kim often recommends an evaluation as early as age 4 to 5, even when a child still has only baby teeth.

An early evaluation does not mean braces will be recommended. It allows us to monitor growth patterns and identify concerns early, potentially reducing the need for more complex treatment later.

Comprehensive braces treatment typically begins between ages 10 and 14, when most permanent teeth have erupted and bite alignment can be fully corrected.

If indicated, Phase I early interceptive treatment, including palatal expanders and pediatric airway-focused therapy, can guide proper jaw development, improve breathing and create space for permanent teeth.

For more detailed information, visit our Early Interceptive Orthodontics page.

Most braces treatments take 18 to 24 months, depending on case complexity, bite correction needs and growth patterns.

With our custom digital braces technology, many patients experience up to a 50% reduction in office visits compared to traditional braces, allowing for more efficient and streamlined treatment.

Yes. With today’s advanced aligner technology, Invisalign therapy is as effective as other orthodontic treatments.

The best option depends on your specific diagnosis, bite complexity and lifestyle. After a comprehensive digital evaluation, we will recommend the treatment that provides the most precise and predictable result.

Braces may cause mild soreness for a few days after placement or adjustments. However, modern orthodontic techniques are significantly more comfortable than in the past.

Most patients adjust quickly within a few days to one week.

No. Adults of all ages can successfully straighten their teeth. Many of our patients are adults choosing Invisalign therapy or discreet orthodontic treatment. Healthy teeth and gums are more important than age when determining candidacy.

Invisalign treatment typically takes 12 to 18 months, depending on case complexity and patient compliance. For best results, aligners should be worn 20 to 22 hours per day.

Invisalign aligners are made of clear, smooth plastic and are far less noticeable than traditional braces. Most people will not notice you are wearing them.

The cost of braces typically ranges between $4,500 and $8,000, depending on case complexity, treatment duration and the type of braces used. At iCare Orthodontics & Dentistry, we provide personalized treatment plans and review all financial options before treatment begins.

Coverage varies by individual insurance plan. Some plans include orthodontic benefits with a lifetime maximum, commonly $1,000 to $2,000. Insurance typically does not cover the full cost of treatment.

Our insurance coordinator will verify your benefits before your consultation whenever possible. When scheduling your appointment, please provide your insurance information so we can give you the most accurate estimate during your visit.

Yes. We offer several financing options to make orthodontic treatment affordable.

We partner with Cherry Financing, which provides flexible monthly payment plans, including up to 24 months of 0% interest for qualified patients. We also offer customized in-office payment plans. For more details, visit our Financial Options page.

Invisalign treatment is often comparable in cost to braces. Pricing depends on case complexity and treatment duration.

In most cases, the difference between Invisalign and braces is less than 10%, and we will review both options during your consultation to help you make the best decision.

Yes. Dr. Vinh Huynh, DMD, MS, is a board-certified orthodontist at iCare who speaks Vietnamese and has practiced in Norcross for over 20 years.

Dr. Huynh welcomes Vietnamese-speaking patients and families for all orthodontic services, including braces, Invisalign, early treatment and retainers. To schedule with Dr. Huynh, call 770-840-9500 or book a free consultation online.

Yes. Dr. Jamie Kim, DMD, MS, is a board-certified orthodontist at iCare who speaks Korean.

Dr. Kim has been named Atlanta Magazine Top Dentist and is a KLOwen Key Opinion Leader, one of a small number of orthodontists in the country certified to train other doctors on advanced digital orthodontic systems. She provides braces, Invisalign, custom digital braces, early treatment and airway-focused care at iCare's Norcross office. To schedule with Dr. Kim, call 770-840-9500 or book a free consultation online.

LightForce is a system of fully custom, 3D-printed ceramic brackets designed to match the exact shape of each patient's teeth. Because each bracket is printed to fit precisely, tooth movement can be more efficient and treatment time may be shorter compared to standard off-the-shelf brackets.

Dr. Jamie Kim is one of a small number of orthodontists in Georgia trained and certified to teach other orthodontists on the LightForce system. Learn more on our LightForce Clear Braces page.

Airway orthodontics considers the relationship between jaw development, bite alignment and the upper airway. When the jaws are narrow or underdeveloped, it can restrict nasal breathing, affect sleep quality and contribute to mouth breathing in children.

Airway-focused treatment may include palatal expanders, functional appliances and phased orthodontic care designed to encourage normal jaw growth and improve airway space. iCare offers pediatric airway-focused care for children identified as having jaw development concerns. Learn more on our Pediatric Airway Care page.

Yes. iCare is one of the few practices in Gwinnett County that provides both orthodontics and implant dentistry under one roof.

Dr. Aaron Manela, DDS, manages implant and cosmetic dentistry. Coordinating orthodontics and implants at the same practice allows for treatment sequencing that improves outcomes, such as creating space with orthodontics before implant placement. Learn more on our Dental Implants page.