Question: My son had very crooked teeth, so he started braces. He looks good, but there are still a few things that could be improved. However, he has been in treatment for four years—when is enough, enough?

Dr. Herman's Answer: The question of when to conclude treatment is based on the ethical principle of beneficence. This means comparing the benefits of more treatment to the risk of longer treatment. You and your son entrust the orthodontist to exercise his/her best judgment to provide your son with the best possible results. At four years into treatment your orthodontist needs to have a risk versus benefit discussion with you and your son. Some questions to discuss are: How much better of a result can we reasonably expect? How long will that take to achieve? What are the risks of staying in braces longer?