Complete Orthodontic Care for the Whole Family: Your Key Questions Answered

Question 1

What is orthodontics exactly?

Answer

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating irregularities associated with the jaw, face, and bite. These irregularities are technically known as “malocclusions,” and they can profoundly affect one’s appearance, day-to-day function, and lifelong health and well-being.

Question 2

What are some of these imbalances?

Answer

Malocclusion generally refers to any time the teeth may not fit together properly. For instance, your or your child’s teeth may be crooked, crowded, overlapped, or gapped. Additionally, the term “bite” refers to how the opposing upper and lower teeth fit together when your mouth is closed. A “normal” or healthy bite is one where the upper teeth slightly overlap the lower teeth. When the upper or lower teeth overlap significantly, you may have overbite or underbite, respectively.

Question 3

What causes these imbalances?

Answer

While most malocclusions are inherited, habits and behaviors can play a role. Malocclusion may be inherited early on due to the likes of persistent or severe tongue thrusting, thumb sucking, and pacifier use. When a baby tooth is lost prematurely, or an adult tooth is extracted, it can also lead to spacing issues and malocclusion.

Question 4

Do I have to wear traditional braces?

Answer

Absolutely not! Similar to technology and medicine as a whole, dentistry is always evolving and innovating. There have never been more options to treat misaligned teeth and for bite correction than now. For instance, today’s “traditional” braces are made with lighter-weight materials that are either transparent or can be made to blend in with the teeth. Or, you can get your healthy, most attractive smile without braces entirely, courtesy of clear aligner therapy. We offer a full range of treatment options for pediatric and adult patients alike.

Question 5

What are clear aligners?

Answer

At Advanced Dental, we provide the pioneering Invisalign® system. Invisalign® is a series of clear, flexible, thermoplastic oral appliances that easily slip in and out of the mouth. They are not “fixed” to the teeth like braces. They place consistent pressure on the teeth to incrementally reposition them. Due to their design, aligners are very easy to adjust to and quite effective, based on the same fundamental principles as conventional orthodontic treatment with braces. As long as you wear each aligner in the correct order and for at least 20 to 22 hours daily, a renewed smile may be yours in as little as six months (or, on average, 12 to 18 months).

Question 6

Why do I need X-rays for orthodontic treatment?

Answer

X-rays help reveal what the naked eye can’t see. They help reveal the health of your jawbone, position of the roots, impacted teeth, and deep-seated misalignment. This information helps us plan orthodontic treatment with precision.

Question 7

Besides aesthetics, why does orthodontics matter?

Answer

Orthodontic treatment is more important than you realize. It’s about your oral health, too. Straight teeth are easier to brush and floss. That means fewer cavities and less gum disease. A balanced bite also reduces uneven wear, jaw strain, and headaches. Orthodontic care is an investment in your oral health, comfort, and confidence.

Question 8

Which is the best orthodontic treatment?

Answer

There’s no single “best” orthodontic treatment. The best option depends on your needs and lifestyle. Many people prefer clear aligners because they are convenient, discreet, and comfortable. However, clear aligners are not suitable for every case. Your dentist may recommend traditional braces for complex orthodontic cases, such as deep bite issues, extrusions, and intrusions. At Advanced Dental, we help you choose what is best for your needs and goals.

Question 9

Can orthodontic issues correct themselves over time?

Answer

Unfortunately, no. Most alignment problems don’t improve on their own. In fact, they often get worse. Early or timely treatment makes everything easier.

Question 10

Am I too old for orthodontics?

Answer

Everyone deserves a healthy, beautiful smile, regardless of age. Orthodontics works at any age. That means you can achieve a beautiful smile in your 50s, 60s, and even beyond. As long as your gums and teeth are healthy, you are a candidate for a straighter smile.

Question 11

Is orthodontic treatment painful?

Answer

It’s more like pressure than pain. You may feel mild soreness or tightness when treatment starts or after adjustments. However, any discomfort resolves within a few days. Our team will give you aftercare instructions to enhance your comfort.

Question 12

Is it harder to maintain oral hygiene with braces?

Answer

That’s true. Wires and brackets can make oral hygiene more challenging, but it’s manageable with the right tools. We’ll recommend special brushes and flossing tools to make cleaning easier. If you choose aligners, you can remove them and clean your teeth as usual.

Question 13

How long will it take to straighten my teeth?

Answer

It varies from patient to patient. Some cases take 6–12 months. Others may take 18–24 months or more. The timeline depends on the complexity of your case. Furthermore, compliance with clear aligner treatment can affect your timeline. Always follow your dentist‘s instructions to make the most of your orthodontic treatment.

Question 14

Should I wear a retainer after my orthodontic treatment?

Answer

Most likely. Straightening your teeth is only half the journey. Keeping them in place is just as important. Aligned teeth can shift back over time. A retainer keeps your new smile in place. Without it, orthodontic relapse can undo the hard-earned results. No one would want this, especially when it’s preventable with a simple orthodontic appliance.

Question 15

How much will it cost to straighten my teeth in Aliso Viejo, CA?

Answer

Costs vary depending on the type of treatment and the case’s complexity. We provide exact pricing during your consultation. We’ll also discuss payment options, including insurance and financing, to make your treatment affordable.

Question 16

Does insurance cover the cost of treatment?

Answer

Most insurance plans cover part of the cost of orthodontic treatment for younger patients. Coverage for adults depends. Our team will review your plan and advise on the applicable benefits.

Question 17

Who offers orthodontic treatment in Aliso Viejo, CA?

Answer

Straighter teeth are healthier teeth. If you are ready to transform your smile with orthodontic care, visit Advanced Dental in Aliso Viejo. We combine modern orthodontics with a personalized, patient-first approach to achieve results you’ll love. Call (949) 289-9993 and begin your treatment today.

Question 18

Why should I choose your team in Aliso Viejo, California?

Answer

With so many orthodontic options, there is certain to be an appropriate treatment for you or your child. For example, our dentists have the skill and onsite capabilities to offer early intervention, including special exercises or habit modification for children. By intervening early on, we may be able to help your kid avoid the need for more extensive treatment with the likes of braces later on. Such early orthodontic treatment also supports healthy development.

Schedule a consultation today to start the process that supports your (or your child's) most appealing smile and healthiest self. Our team can be reached at (949) 289-9993.