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We’re always looking for new patients!
There are a number of ways to contact us for a consultation for braces, Invisalign, or retainers. Call our number during working hours or fill out the form and we will call you back to schedule a convenient appointment time to get you started on your beautiful new smile.
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7.
At this age, most kids have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, which allows the orthodontist to spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth—even if braces aren’t needed yet. Early evaluation can help:
• Guide jaw growth (especially in crossbite or underbite cases)
• Correct harmful oral habits (like thumb sucking)
• Lower the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
• Make future treatment shorter or less complicated
Many kids won’t need treatment right away, but early monitoring can ensure any necessary intervention is timed just right.
Metal braces and clear braces (also called ceramic braces) are equally effective in most cases—but there are some key differences that might make one a better choice depending on the patient’s needs:
• Metal braces are slightly more durable and can handle more complex tooth movements, especially in severe crowding or bite correction.
• Clear braces work just as well for most mild to moderate cases but can be more prone to breakage due to the more brittle ceramic material.
Other Differences:
Visibility
Highly visible
Tooth-colored, more discreet
Strength
Very durable
Less durable, can chip/crack
Friction
Lower (faster movement possible)
Higher, may slow down treatment
Staining
Don’t stain easily
Brackets resist stain, but clear ligatures can stain
Cost
Usually less expensive
Typically more expensive
In summary, metal braces are often preferred for younger patients or complex cases. Clear braces are more popular with teens and adults who want a more discreet option and have less demanding alignment issues.
Our office is located on the north side of Orange, CA near the 91 and the 55 freeways off of Lincoln Ave.
Average Treatment Times:
• Mild cases (e.g., minor crowding or spacing): 6–12 months
• Moderate cases (e.g., bite correction, moderate crowding): 12–24 months
• Complex cases (e.g., severe malocclusion, jaw issues): 24–30+ months
Factors That Affect Treatment Time:
• Age: Teens often respond faster than adults due to ongoing growth.
• Type of appliance: Braces, clear aligners, or other devices all vary slightly in efficiency.
• Severity of the issue: More complex problems take longer to correct.
• Patient compliance: Missed appointments, poor oral hygiene, or not wearing elastics/aligners as directed can extend treatment time.
• Growth and biology: Every person’s teeth and jaw respond at different rates.
An experienced orthodontist can give a more precise estimate after a full exam and diagnostic records, please contact us for a complimentary consultation.
Here’s why: After braces come off, your teeth are still settling into their new positions. Without a retainer, they will gradually shift back toward where they started—this is called relapse.
Types of Retainers:
• Removable (Clear or Hawley): Worn full-time at first (usually 3–6 months), then nights only long-term.
• Fixed (Bonded): A wire glued behind front teeth (often lower), ideal for long-term stability with no compliance needed.
How long will I need to wear it?
• Lifelong nighttime wear is the gold standard if you want to keep your teeth perfectly straight.
• Skipping wear for even a few weeks early on can lead to noticeable shifting.
Think of retainers like maintenance for a car—you’ve made the investment, and now you just need to keep it running smoothly.
Here’s a breakdown of insurance coverage basics:
• Children’s orthodontics: Many dental plans do offer partial coverage for children under 18, often covering 50% of the cost up to a lifetime maximum (commonly $1,000–$3,000).
• Adult orthodontics: Coverage is less common for adults, but some plans include it or offer it as an optional add-on.
• Lifetime maximums: Most orthodontic insurances offer their benefits as a one-time benefit per person—once it’s used, it doesn’t renew. There is a potential for different benefits if insurance carriers are changed in a lifetime.
At OC Family Orthodontics in Orange, CA, we strive to provide the highest quality orthodontic care in a clean, fun, and professional environment.