Orthodontics FAQ
If you have questions, we have answers! We believe patient education is key to creating beautiful results in the shortest amount of time.
If you don’t see your question here, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
What are my options with braces?
You deserve treatment options that allow you to smile confidently throughout your transformation.
We provide different types of aesthetic braces, including BRIUS® hidden braces, Iconix® champagne-gold braces, clear ceramic braces, metal braces and Invisalign® clear aligners.
Looking for an invisible treatment option? Try BRIUS or Invisalign! BRIUS braces are attached to the hidden, back surfaces of your teeth, so no one will be able to see them. Invisalign clear aligners are also transparent and undetectable when they’re in place.
When should my child come in for their first orthodontic exam?
The AAO advises that children receive their first orthodontic screening by age 7. Early screenings are crucial for detecting problematic orthodontic conditions before they progress.
Through early detection and early intervention of orthodontic problems, we can minimize the need for future treatment. Conditions that are left untreated can be more challenging to correct in the adult years and may require a more complex treatment, like corrective jaw surgery.
Early orthodontic screenings enable us to intervene with problematic conditions and take the necessary steps to establish a healthy foundation for a beautiful set of permanent teeth to grow.
What is the cost of braces?
The cost of braces is affordable with us!
We offer flexible payment options with 0%-interest financing and monthly payments as low as $200 or less with insurance. Insurance can cover up to $3,000. Our team will work with you to create a custom financial plan that makes you happy.
We also offer a pay-in-full discount and family member discount, and accept a variety of insurance plans to help you manage the cost of braces. We’ll submit your insurance claims for you, to help you receive the maximum benefit too.
What is the cost of Invisalign?
We offer flexible payment options with 0%-interest financing and monthly payments as low as $200 or less with insurance. Insurance can cover up to $3,000. Our team will work with you to create a custom financial plan that makes you happy.
We also offer a pay-in-full discount and family member discount, and accept a variety of insurance plans to help you manage the cost of Invisalign. We’ll submit your insurance claims for you, to help you receive the maximum benefit too.
Do I still need to visit my dentist throughout my orthodontic treatment period?
Yes! Dental cleanings are still extremely important. We want to ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy throughout treatment. Visit your dentist for professional cleanings every 6 months or however often your dentist advises.
Dr. Lin is happy to coordinate with your dentist on any needs throughout your treatment as well.
Am I too old to start orthodontic treatment?
No matter your age, the answer is no. You’re never too old to start living your most confident life. Ready to find your confidence at 82 years young? We’re all in!
How do I know if I need orthodontic treatment?
This is why we perform a thorough exam. During your orthodontic exam with Dr. Lin, we’ll thoroughly assess your condition (including x-rays and diagnostic photos) and discuss any orthodontic-related symptoms you may be experiencing.
Through this assessment, we can determine whether you need orthodontic treatment. In the meanwhile, here are some signs you can look out for to determine whether you need treatment:
- You have crowding or spacing
- You’re not confident in your smile
- You have difficulty breathing, or you mouth-breathe often
- You have difficulty sleeping
- You feel pain when opening or closing your mouth
- Your jaw pops or clicks when opening your mouth
- Your top teeth overlap your bottom teeth
- Your bottom teeth overlap your top teeth
- You experience persistent soreness in your teeth or gums
Why do Fellow Orthodontist smiles look different?
Because every smile here is intentionally designed, not just straightened.
Dr. Lin approaches orthodontics as both a science and an art. Each treatment plan is guided by his S.H.A.P.E. Philosophy, focusing on facial balance, symmetry, smile arc, and fine aesthetic details that elevate the final result.
You can see some of our smiles featured in our Patient Covershots. Each smile is thoughtfully crafted to look natural, confident, and uniquely you.
For patients who want/need a little extra, Dr. Lin also offers gummy smile treatment and professional teeth whitening to refine the final look and create a truly stunning finish.
The difference is in the details, and in the hands that design them.
How do I know I’m receiving the best orthodontic care here?
Dr. Lin is a board-certified Manhattan orthodontist and a trusted consultant for Align™ Technology, the company behind Invisalign®. He works with orthodontists nationwide to help them master digital treatment planning and deliver better outcomes.
When your doctor teaches other doctors, you can feel confident you’re in expert hands.
Plus, if you’re not happy within the first 100 days of treatment, let us know, and we’ll refund your money. Our Happiness Guarantee ensures that your satisfaction isn’t up for negotiation. It’s guaranteed.
Can I get started from home with a virtual orthodontic consultation?
Yes, getting started with us is as easy as picking up your phone.
You can request a virtual consultation via Zoom or complete a smile assessment by text to see if orthodontic treatment may be right for you. You decide how you get started, and we’re here to meet you either way.
How does virtual orthodontics work?
Virtual care allows Dr. Lin to monitor your progress between in-office visits, saving you time without sacrificing results.
Using the My Invisalign App, you’ll submit guided photos of your teeth from home. Dr. Lin personally reviews these images to ensure your treatment is tracking exactly as planned.
One of the biggest benefits of virtual care is that it allows Dr. Lin to catch small issues early—before they become bigger problems. This proactive approach helps keep your treatment on track, reduces unnecessary delays, and ensures you achieve the smile of your dreams in the shortest time possible.
If anything needs attention, we’ll let you know right away and guide you on the next step, whether that’s a quick adjustment or an in-office visit.
It’s a seamless, intentional way to stay connected to your treatment, purposefully designed for busy Manhattan lifestyles.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Treatment time varies depending on your unique needs.
- Comprehensive orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign can range from 12–24 months, but some cases may be shorter or longer.
- Invisalign Touch-Ups for minor, cosmetic fixes or retreatment, can be completed in just 5–10 months.
- More complex treatment plans, involving airway concerns, corrective jaw surgery, or adult palatal expansion, can span longer, around 18–24 months or more.
It all depends on your specific needs and your personalized treatment plan. During your consultation, Dr. Lin will provide a clear, realistic timeline tailored specifically to you.
- Please note: With limited Invisalign Touch-Ups, some offices rush to complete treatment in just 5–10 trays, but this often compromises the end result. At Fellow Orthodontist, quality is our priority with every treatment plan, and Dr. Lin fine-tunes all aspects of your smile to create a balanced, stunning result that lasts.
How many appointments before getting braces or Invisalign®?
If you choose any form of traditional braces, then just one appointment.
We offer Same Day Braces, which means Iconix® champagne-gold braces, ceramic clear braces, and traditional metal braces can be placed on your very first visit.
During your consultation, Dr. Lin will complete your exam, digital scans, and treatment planning, and if braces are your preference, we can get you started right away.
If you choose a custom treatment, like Invisalign® or BRIUS® hidden braces, we’ll take your digital smile scans at that same visit and order your custom appliances. Once they’re designed and printed for you, you’ll come visit us to have your BRIUS placed or receive your custom aligners.
At Fellow Orthodontist, we bring you a streamlined, efficient process designed to respect your time, without compromising precision or results.
What do I do if I lost my Invisalign tray?
Mistakes happen, and we’re here to help if they do. Please contact our office as soon as possible, either through the My Invisalign App or by calling our office at (917) 451-2999.
Depending on where you are in your treatment, Dr. Lin may recommend moving to your next aligner or ordering a replacement. We’ll guide you on the best next step to keep your progress on track.
Can orthodontics help sleep apnea or snoring?
In many cases, yes. Orthodontic treatment can improve airway support by addressing bite alignment, jaw positioning, and crowding.
Dr. Lin works closely with a trusted ENT specialist to provide truly comprehensive care. We focus on treating the root causes of airway issues to help you breathe easily, sleep soundly, and smile confidently.
If you experience mouth-breathing, loud snoring, sleep issues, airway concerns, or any issues related to your smile or jaw development, Dr. Lin will evaluate whether orthodontics can treat your concern and improve your quality of life.
What do I need to do before my initial orthodontic consultation?
Before your consultation, we encourage you to take a moment to really think about your smile.
- What do you notice when you look in the mirror?
- What bothers you about your teeth, bite, or facial balance?
- What would your ideal smile look like?
Your consultation with Dr. Lin is a collaborative smile-design experience, not a one-size-fits-all plan. Every smile at Fellow Orthodontist is custom-designed around your facial anatomy, personality, and goals. Coming prepared with your vision allows Dr. Lin to translate what you want into a treatment plan that’s truly made for you.
If you’re ready to get started right away, we also recommend:
- Having a dental cleaning within the last 6–12 months
- Bringing your insurance information and preferred payment method
We’re here to create a thoughtful, relaxed experience in our modern Union Square orthodontic office. All you have to do is request your consultation—we’ll take care of the rest.
How does financing orthodontics work?
We make paying for braces or Invisalign® simple and flexible.
At your first visit, we’ll review your total treatment cost, verify and apply your insurance benefit, and explain how your coverage affects your balance. If you have an FSA or HSA, we’ll walk you through using those funds too, so you maximize your savings.
Then we’ll design a custom financing plan with a down payment and monthly payments that fit your budget — all with 0% interest in-house financing and no surprises. Learn more about our affordable pricing options, here.
How does orthodontic insurance work?
Orthodontic insurance can be confusing. We make it straightforward.
At your consultation, our team will verify your orthodontic benefits, explain exactly what your plan covers, and apply your insurance toward your treatment cost. Many plans cover a portion of braces or Invisalign®, often up to a lifetime maximum.
We’ll submit claims on your behalf and coordinate benefits directly with your insurer, so you don’t have to navigate the details on your own. Any remaining balance can then be paired with flexible, 0% interest financing to keep treatment affordable and predictable.