Ossian and northern Wells County families head up State Road 1 to Bussick Orthodontics, where Dr. Timothy J. Bussick provides braces and Invisalign at our Southwest Fort Wayne office on Engle Rd. Most of our patients are school age, so we plan treatment with the school day in mind, and every new patient begins with a free consultation.
Orthodontics That Works Around the School Day
For Ossian students, every appointment means a drive into Fort Wayne. Seeing everyone after school is not always possible, so we focus on keeping the total number of visits low. Invisalign helps here, because aligner check-ins are spaced about three months apart instead of the six-to-eight-week rhythm of braces. Our page on orthodontics for teens covers how middle and high school students choose between the two.
Musicians do not have to set their instruments aside; playing with braces simply takes a little getting used to at first. If a wire starts to poke or a bracket comes loose, call before driving in. We can usually talk you through it, and a loose bracket can typically be repaired at your next scheduled visit.
Choosing Between Braces and Invisalign
Dr. Bussick offers metal braces, clear brackets, and clear aligner treatment with Invisalign. Braces work for nearly every bite, and the elastic tie colors can change at almost every appointment. Aligners are hard to spot and are removed for meals, but they only do their job when they stay in 20 to 22 hours a day. At the consultation, Dr. Bussick will explain which option fits your smile and your routine.
Adults in Ossian are welcome too. As long as your teeth and gums are healthy, there is no age limit. See our overview of orthodontics for adults for more.
Rewards for Good Habits
Every patient receives an Ortho Buck card at the start of treatment. Students earn a punch for every “A” on their current report card, to a maximum of five, being on time, excellent hygiene, and cooperating with elastics, plus ten bonus punches when the braces come off if nothing was broken or loose. Prizes are redeemable at any appointment. See the whole list on our Ortho Bucks rewards page.
After Treatment: Keeping the New Smile
The day braces come off is a celebration, but the teeth still need support. The new tooth positions need a minimum of four to six months to become permanent, and the teeth will try to drift back the entire time. That is why the retainer schedule is full-time daily wear for six months, followed by nightly wear for life. If a retainer is lost or broken, call (260) 436-2255 so we can schedule a replacement quickly, and we will let you know about any replacement fee at that time.
Your Office on Engle Road
Ossian patients are typically seen at our Southwest office at 7207 Engle Rd, Fort Wayne, IN 46804. We also have a North office at 10506 Coldwater Rd, and one number, (260) 436-2255, schedules both. Patient hours are Monday through Thursday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM; Friday is an administrative day.
Before Your First Appointment
To save time, download and complete the new patient forms at home and bring them to your first visit. That visit includes a warm welcome, x-rays, photos, and a thorough exam by Dr. Bussick, followed by a review of the plan and financial options with your treatment coordinator. Fees vary by treatment, and we offer interest-free payment plans and accept HSA and FSA cards. Our frequently asked questions answer the most common questions parents bring.
When you are ready, book a free consultation at the Southwest office.