Orthodontic FAQs Bixby Knolls, CA

What Are Common Orthodontic Problems in Bixby Knolls?

At Orthodontics of Bixby Knolls, we typically treat common orthodontic problems such as:

• Crooked or misaligned teeth
• Teeth that too crowded
• Gaps between teeth, especially front teeth
• Overbites, underbites, or crossbites

Who Is Orthodontic Treatment For?

We treat people of all ages at Orthodontics of Bixby Knolls. Of course, we focus a lot of on straightening the teeth of children after their permanent teeth come in, but we also work with many adults too!

Who Is Orthodontic Treatment For?

We treat people of all ages at Orthodontics of Bixby Knolls. Of course, we focus a lot of on straightening the teeth of children after their permanent teeth come in, but we also work with many adults too!

Can Adults Wear Braces?

Adults can and do wear braces to straighten teeth. Popular options for working adults who want to avoid a “metal mouth” are porcelain ceramic braces or Invisalign^Ⓡ clear aligners, which are two alternatives to metal braces that blend in with the teeth.

Why Are Straight Teeth Important?

Crooked teeth aren’t just an aesthetic problem. Misaligned teeth can cause or aggravate a lot of oral health problems down the line. One major issue with overly crowded or crooked teeth is gum disease. Teeth might also be more prone to breaking or chipping if they are crowded or pointing out the wrong way. Misaligned bites can also make it harder to chew or speak clearly. They can also contribute to chronic pain like TMJ syndrome.

When Should I Bring My Child to the Orthodontist?

Bring your Orthodontics of Bixby Knolls around the age of seven, which is when the permanent teeth start to erupt. We will conduct an examination and take X-rays to determine if we need to plan ahead for braces or other orthodontic treatments.

What Is the Difference Between Metal and Porcelain Ceramic Braces?

If you need braces, but would like a less obtrusive alternative, porcelain ceramic braces are a great option. The porcelain ceramic brackets (unlike metal brackets) are clear or match the color of your teeth. The ceramic brackets are a little more fragile, however, so porcelain ceramic braces need to have less tension on the wires, which means the treatment may take a few months longer than regular braces.

What Are Invisalign^Ⓡ Clear Aligners?

Another alternative to braces is Invisalign^Ⓡ clear aligners. These removable plastic trays are custom molded to your teeth. You change the clear aligners every few weeks as your teeth transition into the right positions.

Do I Have a Choice Between Traditional Braces and Invisalign^Ⓡ Clear Aligners?

For many of our patients, there is a choice between traditional metal or ceramic braces and Invisalign^Ⓡ clear aligners. There may be occasions, however, where we might recommend traditional braces for certain types of malocclusions. Typically, younger children may do better with traditional braces because they might otherwise misplace or avoid wearing their Invisalign^Ⓡ clear aligners.

Can I Still Get Braces with Crowns or Dental Veneers?

Some of our orthodontic patients in Bixby Knolls have already had other work done and wonder if they can still have braces. This includes restorative dental work done such as dental bridges, porcelain veneers, crowns, or dental implants. In certain cases, we might recommend Invisalign^Ⓡ clear aligners, but we are also able to place brackets on crowns and veneers using special adhesive.

What Are Retainers?

Retainers are orthodontic appliances that are prescribed after a patient finishes their braces or Invisalign^Ⓡ clear aligner treatment. These retainers are designed to keep the teeth in the correct position, so they don’t slide back to where they were before the braces. Once in a while, we can use a retainer instead of braces to gently move minor misalignments as well.

What Other Orthodontic Appliances Are Used by Orthodontics of Bixby Knolls?

At Orthodontics of Bixby Knolls, we might also recommend the following orthodontic appliances, including:

• Orthodontic headgear
• Space maintainers
• Palatal expanders
• Devices to help speed up InvisalignⓇ treatment

If you have any questions about an orthodontic device, technology, or treatment, just let us know!