Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing orthodontic treatment is a big decision and you might have questions about our services, processes, and more. Below you’ll find answers to our frequently asked questions. If you have a question that’s not included below, let us know and we’d be happy to help!
FAQs About Braces
How much will braces cost? Are financing options available? How does my insurance work?
We can only determine treatment costs after your initial consultation is completed, as each patient’s case is unique. You can learn more about our Financing & Insurance policies on our website, or speak to one of our staff members at the office. We’ll review your financing options with you, and will work with you to maximize your insurance benefits.
Will I need to have teeth extracted for braces?
It depends on your unique situation, but sometimes in order to achieve optimal results, teeth may need to be removed. However, advanced technology and methods have made this less common.
Can I wear braces even though I have crowns or missing teeth?
Yes, absolutely! A tooth will a crown will move just like a regular tooth, and treatment will aid in the alignment of the remaining teeth.
Do braces hurt?
Braces or Invisalign don’t “hurt,” but for the first couple days you may feel some slight discomfort. When there is soreness, Motrin or Advil (ibuprofen) can help ease the discomfort.
Can I return to school/work the day I receive my braces?
Absolutely. There’s no reason why you shouldn’t be able to return to your normal daily life.
FAQs About Invisalign®
How long do I have to wear the aligners?
Because each patient is different, treatment time with Invisalign varies. You could be in treatment for as little as 6 months or as long as 24 months – it all depends on the specific type of orthodontic problem you have and how compliant you are wearing your aligners and keeping your scheduled appointments.
Do I have to wear the aligners even at night?
Yes. In order for Invisalign to work as it’s designed, you must wear your aligners for up to 22 hours each day. You can remove them when eating and when brushing & flossing. You can also take them out temporarily for those special occasions such as interviews or school photos as long as you put them right back in afterward.
Will my speech be affected?
When you first start wearing Invisalign, you may notice that your speech is not as clear as it normally is. This is nothing to panic about, as you simply must get used to wearing the aligners. Just spend a bit of time speaking or singing out loud while wearing your aligners and before you know it, your speech will return to normal.
How do I keep my aligners clean?
It is very easy to clean your aligners. Just brush them gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and then rinse them off to keep them fresh & clean. To keep them extra fresh, we offer Invisalign Cleaning Crystals or Retainer Brite to freshen up the trays 1-2 times per week!
How often do I need to visit your office during treatment?
At the beginning of treatment, we may see you every 3-4 weeks. As treatment progresses, we can usually monitor your progress every 8-12 weeks. Each tray could be worn from 18 days in the beginning to 7 days towards the end of treatment, depending on cooperation and progress. Every patient’s needs are different, so that can vary from smile to smile.
Will I have to wear a retainer once I’m done wearing my aligners?
Yes. The day you are finished wearing your aligners is when you begin the retention phase of your treatment. This is when you will wear a retainer as directed by us so your teeth do not shift back into their original positions.
Can I chew gum?
No, chewing gum is not a good idea because it will stick to your aligners and make a big mess.
Is it OK to smoke with my aligners in?
Because cigarette smoke can discolor and stain your aligners, smoking is not a good idea while wearing Invisalign.
FAQs About Kids
Will my child's teeth straighten as they grown?
Unfortunately, no. Orthodontic issues, such as spacing and malocclusions, tend to worsen with age. It’s important to be examined as early as possible, to ensure these problems are corrected sooner rather than later.
At what age should I schedule an appointment for an orthodontic screening?
American Association of Orthodontists recommend you should schedule your child’s first appointment by age 7.
Orthodontic treatment and a child’s growth can complement each other. By timing orthodontic treatment to predictable stages of dental development, the orthodontist may be able to take advantage of your child’s growth and development. Some problems that can be treated quite well in a growing child may require corrective surgery or permanent teeth to be extracted if treated after growth has occurred.
Can I schedule all of my kid’s appointments after school?
We do our best to schedule you for the most convenient times based on your busy schedule, but cannot make any guarantees. However, most appointments are scheduled 4-10 weeks apart, so you or your child will miss minimal work/school time.
Can I drop my child off for an appointment?
We completely understand your busy schedule and are happy to accommodate. Once you pick up your child, we will review what was accomplished at the conclusion of each appointment and what is expected to be accomplished at the next appointment. We strongly recommend making the follow up appointments prior to leaving our office.
Can my child still play sports?
Of course! We do recommend that you use a mouth guard to protect your mouth during treatment.
Can Orthodontic correction occur while a child has baby teeth?
If an orthodontic issue is severe enough, then early intervention can occur while the child still has baby teeth. If your child isn’t ready yet, we’ll simply monitor their growth and development, and begin treatment when they’re ready.
What is Phase One (Early) Treatment?
Between the ages 7 and 10, some patients require phase one (early) treatment, which usually lasts about 6-18 months. The goal of early treatment is to address more significant orthodontic issues to make later treatment processes smoother. It also drastically improves the child’s confidence and self-esteem levels.
Will my child need an expander?
You’ll find out if your child will need an expander after your initial consultation.
Will my child need braces if he/she has Phase One Treatment?
It’s best to assume that braces will be needed after phase one treatment, but we’ll monitor your child’s growth and development to ensure the best treatment methods occur next.
FAQs About Teens
Do braces hurt?
Braces or Invisalign don’t “hurt,” but for the first couple days you may feel some slight discomfort. When there is soreness, Motrin or Advil (ibuprofen) can help ease the discomfort.
Can I return to school the day I receive my braces?
Absolutely. There’s no reason why you shouldn’t be able to return to your normal daily life.
Will my teeth straighten as I grown?
Unfortunately, no. Orthodontic issues, such as spacing and malocclusions, tend to worsen with age. It’s important to be examined as early as possible, to ensure these problems are corrected sooner rather than later.
Can I schedule all of my appointments after school?
We do our best to schedule you for the most convenient times based on your busy schedule, but cannot make any guarantees. However, most appointments are scheduled 4-10 weeks apart, so you or your child will miss minimal work/school time.
Can I still play sports with braces or aligners?
Of course! We do recommend that you use a mouthguard to protect your mouth during treatment.
FAQs About Adults
Is it too late to have braces if I am already an adult?
Adult orthodontics is becoming more common, as orthodontic treatment helps increase overall happiness level, health, and self-esteem. It’s never too late for a beautiful smile!
Can I wear braces even though I have crowns and missing teeth?
Yes, absolutely! A tooth with a crown will move just like a regular tooth, and treatment will aid in the alignment of the remaining teeth.
Will my speech be affected?
When you first start wearing Invisalign, you may notice that your speech is not as clear as it normally is. This is nothing to panic about, as you simply must get used to wearing the aligners. Just spend a bit of time speaking or singing out loud while wearing your aligners and before you know it, your speech will return to normal.
Can I still play sports with braces or aligners?
Of course! We do recommend that you use a mouthguard to protect your mouth during treatment.
Is it OK to smoke with my aligners in?
Because cigarette smoke can discolor and stain your aligners, smoking is not a good idea while wearing Invisalign.
FAQs About Orthodontics
What is an emergency appointment? How are those handled?
If your braces are hurting you or your child severely, or if one of your appliances breaks, you should call our office. We can solve most orthodontic emergencies over the phone, but will make time for you if your issue requires an office visit.
Why choose and orthodontic specialist?
Orthodontic specialists have the education, training and experience to effectively alter teeth, jaw, and facial structures to help patients achieve optimal oral health. It’s critical that treatment is personalized to each individual and properly completed, and choosing a specialist, like the orthodontists at Allen Orthodontics, ensures that everything is done correctly.
Do I need a referral from my dentist to schedule an appointment with the orthodontist?
It’s not required, but often times our patients are referred by their family dentist. However, patients also are referred by family members and friends, and take the initiative to schedule an appointment themselves.
How do I schedule an appointment for an initial exam?
It's easy! Contact us or call our office. We can't wait to meet you!
What will happen at the initial examination appointment?
Before you leave, be sure to have all the necessary information needed to complete our new patient forms, including your insurance information. Then Dr. Allen will complete the examination, which can include X-rays and photographs, to properly diagnose you or your child’s condition.
If you want to learn even more about what happens, you can find more information on our First Visit page.
Do you give shots?
No, as shots are not necessary for orthodontic treatment.
Our Patients Love Us
See what our patients have to say about their visits. Of course, you don’t just have to take everybody else’s word about how great we are, make your appointment today to take your smile to the next level and find out for yourself!
How it Works
1. Getting to Know You
At your first visit to our Oceanside orthodontist office, diagnostic records – typically photos of your face and teeth, as well as x-rays – to determine the best course of treatment. We use this information to develop a custom treatment plan that’s unique to your needs and goals. These records are also helpful in tracking the progress of your treatment as your teeth begin to move and shift into the optimal position.
2. Custom Treatment Plan
We’ve invested in the latest orthodontic technology so that we can provide each patient with a customized treatment plan that’s not only perfect for jaw structure and their specific goals but also their budget. After Dr. Allen evaluates your records, we’ll discuss our recommended treatment plan with you in detail, including the payment options.
No matter your age, we can help you get the smile you’ve always wanted.
3. Your New Smile
At Allen Orthodontics in Oceanside, we don’t just make smiles more beautiful, we help you discover your true smile – a smile infused with real confidence. Because when you’re no longer afraid to smile you become more open, more honest, and more present in everyday moments. This is what we want for all of our patients. So, let’s do this San Diego County. Let’s uncover the true you by discovering your true smile.
What are you waiting for?
Who You Are is Amazing. Your Smile Should Be Too.
Ready to start your smile transformation? Look no further than Allen Orthodontics, where we specialize in creating beautiful smiles that will leave you feeling confident and happy. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing exceptional orthodontic care tailored to your unique needs. Visit us today, and let us help you achieve the smile of your dreams!
