Orthodontics FAQs in Torrance, CA

We can’t answer this question until we’ve seen you for a consultation in our dentist office in Torrance. The best type of braces for you depends on the specific issues with your teeth, how long it will take to treat them, your budget, and other factors. We’ll develop a customized treatment plan just for you during your consultation. The orthodontist will explain the recommendations and answer all your questions.

The length of treatment depends on the issues being treated but generally ranges from 6 months to 2 years. The average length of treatment is 22 months.

There is no set minimum age for beginning treatment, but most orthodontists won’t treat a child under seven. Most children start orthodontic work in the late tween or early teen years. If your child has a severe issue, treatment may be started sooner.

Of course! Straightening your teeth and correcting issues with your jaw will benefit you no matter how old you are. Orthodontics will improve both the function and the look of your teeth. A third of today’s orthodontics patients are adults. Treatment may take slightly longer than it does for younger patients but is just as effective.

Generally, you will need to see your provider every 6 to 8 weeks for check-ups and adjustments, but this may vary depending on the type of orthodontic equipment you have.

You certainly can! Your treatment plan may need to be modified to save room for replacement teeth or to close the gap where the tooth is missing. Your provider will explain the necessary steps during your consultation.

Yes, you may still be able to have orthodontic work if you’ve already had other dental issues corrected and have crowns, bridges, or other hardware in your mouth. We use special bonding materials to adhere braces to crowns. Again, your treatment plan may need to be modified to account for these issues. Come into our Torrance dentist office for a consultation and we’ll develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual circumstances.

You will need to be more careful with how you brush and floss during your treatment. Our staff will go over the guidelines with you. Follow them closely to ensure the best possible outcome. You also need to continue visiting your dentist for regular cleanings during your treatment.

In general, you’ll need to avoid foods that are sticky, crunchy, hard, or chewy while you’re wearing braces. This list may vary depending on the type of braces used. In addition, you should reduce your sugar intake to limit the buildup of plaque around your braces. You’ll also need to avoid chewing on pens, your fingernails, and other hard objects such as ice. Any of these can damage your braces.

You shouldn’t experience any pain while wearing your braces. There may be some discomfort when they’re first applied or adjusted, and your teeth may be sore for a few days afterward, but after that, you should not experience any pain.

Oral piercings in general are problematic due to the potential for the jewelry to harm your teeth and gums. The jewelry can crack or chip your teeth and cause abrasions to your gums that lead to periodontal problems. These issues are compounded with orthodontic treatment because the jewelry can also break or otherwise damage your braces. It’s best to avoid wearing oral piercing jewelry entirely, but especially during orthodontic work.

The cost of orthodontics varies tremendously based on which types of treatment you need, how long your treatment will take, and what portion your insurance will cover. After your consultation, our staff will go over the costs for your recommended treatment plan and discuss financial arrangements with you.