Orthodontic FAQs in Woodland Hills, CA

Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities, commonly known as malocclusion. These can include issues such as overcrowding, gaps between teeth, and improper bite (overbites, underbites, crossbites).
 
It’s our mission at Orthodontics in Woodland Hills to help patients of all ages in Woodland Hills, CA, achieve a balanced, functional bite and an aesthetically pleasing smile through personalized orthodontic treatment.

Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for improving the aesthetics of your smile. It can also play a crucial role in promoting overall oral health. Certain conditions, like overcrowded teeth or a misaligned bite, can make it difficult to maintain proper oral hygiene, leading to issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, speech impediments, and difficulties in chewing.
 
Who might benefit from orthodontic treatment? Anyone with the following conditions:
– Overcrowded teeth
– Large gaps between teeth
– Overbite (when the upper front teeth protrude over the lower front teeth)
– Underbite (when the lower teeth are too far forward or upper teeth too far back)
– Crossbite (when the upper teeth do not come down slightly in front of the lower teeth when biting together normally)^**

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic consultation by age seven. Early evaluation provides both timely detection of potential problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment.
 
However, it’s a misconception that orthodontic treatment is only for children or teenagers. In fact, one in five orthodontic patients is an adult. At Orthodontics in Woodland Hills, we offer various treatments designed for different age groups, including adults. It’s never too late to improve your greatest asset – your smile.

Orthodontic treatment typically starts with a comprehensive examination, which may include X-rays, photographs of the face and teeth, and a digital scan to create a replicate model of the teeth. Based on the diagnosis, our team at Orthodontics in Woodland Hills will develop a customized treatment plan to suit your needs and lifestyle.
While traditional braces remain popular, they are not the only solution. We also offer:
 
– Clear aligners (like Invisalign): These are virtually invisible and can be removed for eating and cleaning.
– Lingual braces: Attached to the back of the teeth, these braces are hidden from view.
– Ceramic braces: Made to blend with the natural color of your teeth for a more discreet look.

It’s normal to experience slight discomfort when you first start your orthodontic treatment or after adjustments are made. This discomfort is temporary and usually subsides within a few days as your mouth adjusts to the appliance. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any temporary discomfort.
 
Maintaining good oral hygiene during treatment is crucial. This includes brushing after every meal, flossing daily, and using a fluoride mouthwash. Regular check-ups at Orthodontics in Woodland Hills will ensure your teeth stay healthy throughout your treatment.

Once your treatment is complete, you will likely need to wear a retainer to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original position. Initially, you may have to wear the retainer full-time, but over time, you may only need to wear it at night.

The cost of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the complexity of the case and the chosen treatment option. At Orthodontics in Woodland Hills, we believe everyone deserves a beautiful smile, so we offer flexible payment plans to accommodate different budgets.