We’re always happy to chat and answer your specific questions (so drop us a text, DM or email), but here’s a list of some of the questions we get asked most often!

Do I need a referral from my dentist to see Dr. Erin?
While we have great respect for dentists, you don’t need a referral from your dentist to see Dr. Erin! We encourage you to continue seeing your dentist for regular care before, during and after your BOCA smile transformation, but their referral is not required to begin your journey with us.

What’s the difference between a dentist + orthodontist?
While every orthodontist is a dentist, not every dentist is an orthodontist.

Dentists are licensed to provide general dental care, such as cleanings, fillings, and crowns. Some may offer orthodontic treatments like braces or aligners, but they don’t have the specialized training required to be an orthodontist.

Orthodontists complete an additional 2-3 years of accredited training after dental school, focusing exclusively on tooth movement, jaw alignment, and facial growth. As specialists, orthodontists limit their scope of practice to orthodontics only. This extra education qualifies them as specialists in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics, allowing them to address complex issues like bite correction and create custom treatment plans for optimal results. Orthodontists are uniquely qualified, by virtue of education and scope of practice, as experts who have the skills and experience to give you/your child a healthy and beautiful smile.

Straightening teeth and aligning the bite are intricate processes requiring specialized care. If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, choosing an orthodontist ensures you’re working with a highly trained expert. Look for a member of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) to start your journey with confidence.

Do I need to continue seeing my dentist while I’m in Invisalign/braces?
You will want to continue seeing your general dentist (and any necessary specialists) during your care with Dr. Erin!

How do I know it’s time to send my child to an orthodontist?
Parents should look for signs that their child’s bite isn’t quite right, including early or late, loss of baby teeth, difficulty in chewing or biting, mouth breathing, jaws that shift or make sounds, speech difficulties, biting the cheek or the roof of the mouth, facial imbalances, and grinding or clenching of the teeth.

The American Association and Dr. Erin recommend children get their first check-up no later than age 7.

Is orthodontic treatment purely cosmetic?
No—orthodontic treatment offers a range of benefits, most of which combine both functional and cosmetic improvements. While the enhanced appearance may be the most visible result, there's much more going on beneath the surface. When teeth and jaws are properly aligned, it not only improves the aesthetic appeal but also enhances functionality, including biting, chewing and speaking.

The beautiful smile that comes from orthodontic treatment is an outward reflection of good oral health, which in turn supports overall well-being. Orthodontic care plays a significant role in healthcare that goes beyond just appearance, offering a broader impact on a patient's quality of life.

What goes on during a Smile Consultation? What is the cost?
We believe every smile is a unique masterpiece that deserves personalized care, which is why our treatments are never one-size-fits-all. During your comprehensive consultation with Dr. Erin, you'll collaborate on a customized plan to achieve your dream smile. Typically, this appointment will take about an hour. Our Smile Consultations are $125.

Here is what is included in a Smile Consultation at BOCA —
+ Diagnostic Imaging — radiographs, photographs + 3D scan with a before/after smile simulation
+ Diagnosis — Review of all diagnostic imaging, medical and dental history and current oral and extraoral hard and soft tissue conditions by orthodontic specialist, Dr. Erin Fraundorf.
+ Conversation — You’ll have exclusive one-on-one time with Dr. Erin, who will listen to your concerns, get to know you and your smile, and provide her expert insights. She’ll explain your smile’s current conditions and address any questions you may have.
+ Customized Treatment Plan — Knowing your concerns, smile goals and lifestyle in addition to her clinical findings, Dr. Erin will design Customized Treatment Plan options for your smile. She will present the custom plan(s), discuss and answer any questions you have.

What does teeth whitening cost?
In-studio teeth whitening treatments range from $249-$1,295 with take home options as low as $50. Every patient's smile, lifestyle, budget, smile goals and wants/needs are totally different, so our teeth whitening is not one-size fits all and completely customized per patient.

Does teeth whitening hurt?
We completely understand your concern! Dr. Erin personally experienced major sensitivity in her past with teeth whitening, so that’s why she created BOCA’s exclusive Whitening Menu, centered around gentle yet effective whitening to prioritize patient comfort and safety.

Sensitivity can vary from patient to patient, but the key to a comfortable teeth whitening experience is obtaining a proper diagnosis, selecting the right whitening method and applying the appropriate clinical technique. At BOCA, teeth whitening is generally very well-tolerated, but some individuals may experience mild, temporary discomfort or sensitivity during or after the procedure. Any discomfort typically resolves within a few hours to a day.

Dr. Erin performs a thorough evaluation and engages in a detailed discussion with you to ensure you feel comfortable throughout the entire process. To further minimize sensitivity, she may offer specific recommendations, such as using a desensitizing toothpaste, providing an after-treatment desensitizing gel, or spacing out whitening treatments to suit your needs.

How Long Will My Treatment Last?
Treatment duration varies depending on the severity of the issue and the type of treatment. Dr. Erin will be able to provide the most accurate timeline for your treatment during your Smile Consultation.

Do you take insurance?
We are an out-of-network provider for orthodontic insurance, which means you may still be eligible to use your benefits for that category. However, you will need to apply for them—typically through your insurance provider, who will then process any reimbursements directly to you. Please confirm with your insurance provider for specific details. We offer Complimentary Concierge Financing for patients undergoing orthodontic treatment, providing flexible payment options to make your dream smile attainable within any budget.

How long does Invisalign treatment take?
The length of your treatment depends on your specific case (ie: your unique smile, case complexity + lifestyle/compliance), but most patients wear Invisalign aligners for about 12 months. some more mild cases may take less time (a few months), while others may require a bit longer.

Is orthodontic treatment painful?
While there might be some discomfort initially or after adjustments, most people adapt quickly. Discomfort is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. Invisalign aligners are typically more comfortable than traditional braces. you may experience some mild discomfort or pressure when you first switch to a new set of aligners, but this usually subsides after a day or two.

Can I eat/drink with Invisalign aligners on?
It’s best to remove your Invisalign aligners before eating or drinking anything (except water). eating with the aligners in can cause damage to your teeth and aligners and can also stain them. after meals, brush your teeth before reinserting the aligners to keep them clean + healthy!

What is “tooth contouring”?
Contouring, also known as dental reshaping or "enameloplasty", is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that can totally transform your smile by subtly altering the shape, length, or surface of your teeth.

This quick + effective treatment is ideal for those looking to fix imperfections like uneven teeth, sharp edges, or small chips—without the need for more invasive procedures like veneers or crowns.

Do you offer financing?
We do! We offer Complimentary Concierge Financing to our patients undergoing orthodontic treatment, providing flexible payment options to make your dream smile attainable within any budget. No interest, no credit pull, no questions.

How long will I need to wear a retainer after orthodontic treatment?
Typically, a retainer is necessary for a lifetime, though the frequency of wear may decrease over time. Dr. Erin will provide you individual guidance based on your smile.

What happens if the retainer is broken or stolen?
If you lose or break a retainer, contact us right away about a replacement as your teeth will begin shifting when you don’t have a retainer holding them in place!