Orthodontic Treatments

Having straight, uniform teeth can greatly contribute to the cosmetics of your smile. Not only that, but a symmetrical smile can also improve your oral health. This is why our committed team at Dental Solutions of Encinitas offers a fantastic selection of orthodontic treatments that optimize your dental care.

From bite issues to crooked teeth, dental crowding to wisdom teeth concerns, we can help. If you or your loved ones are curious about how orthodontics can get you a healthier and happier smile, give us a call today to schedule your consultation.

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How Do Orthodontics Work?

Orthodontics is a specialized field of dentistry that corrects irregularities in our mouths. This can include abnormalities in teeth orientation, necessary adjustments of jaw alignment, or other preventative methods that lower risks to your dental well-being.

As you can imagine, orthodontic treatments come in many different forms to address such a broad range of oral health concerns. Thanks to our office being equipped with some of the most advanced dental technology available, such as digital X-rays and 3D imaging tools, we can pinpoint any orthodontic issues you may be experiencing and get you the treatment you need.

Do I Need Orthodontic Care?

Not only are our mouths an extremely complex network of hard and soft tissue, but they also go through drastic changes throughout our lives. 

For example, most of us lose all of our primary teeth (baby teeth) around the age of seven. Our mouths are developed enough by age 18 to begin seeing a general dentist instead of a pediatric dentist. However, our final set of molars (wisdom teeth) can emerge as late as 24 years old.

That’s a lot of changes—and each of these changes can create a complication for your dental care. Thankfully, that is where orthodontics comes in and resolves any of these complications. You may want to consider orthodontic treatment if any of the following apply to you:

Malocclusion

Malocclusion is the general term for a misaligned bite. Problems such as underbites, overbites, and crossbites are more than cosmetic concerns—they can affect the way you chew, speak, and even breathe. Beyond appearance, malocclusions can contribute to headaches, jaw pain, speech issues, and premature wear of the teeth.

Orthodontic treatments, including clear aligners like Invisalign® or traditional braces, can gently guide your teeth and jaws into proper alignment, improving both function and appearance.

Dental Crowding

Crowded teeth occur when there isn’t enough room in the jaw for teeth to align properly. This can cause teeth to overlap, twist, or appear uneven, making it difficult to brush and floss effectively. Poor access for cleaning raises your risk of cavities and gum disease. 

Orthodontic solutions, such as Invisalign or braces, can gradually create the necessary space for your teeth, resulting in a straighter, healthier smile that’s easier to maintain.

CROOKED TEETH

A dental malposition, or crooked tooth or teeth, encompasses conditions such as crowding, spacing, and teeth that have not erupted correctly. Over time, untreated dental malpositions may cause uneven wear on your teeth, leading to cracks, breaks, or enamel loss. 

Fortunately, modern orthodontic treatments are highly effective at correcting these issues, helping patients achieve a smile that’s not only more attractive but also healthier and more comfortable.

TMJ/TMD

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) often develops when your bite is misaligned, placing excessive strain on the jaw joints and surrounding muscles. Symptoms may include jaw pain, headaches, clicking or popping sounds, and even difficulty opening or closing your mouth.

Orthodontic treatment helps by gradually guiding your teeth and jaw, reducing the uneven pressure that contributes to TMJ discomfort.

DIASTEMAS

Diastemas, or gaps between teeth, are quite common and can affect both the front and back teeth. While some people view gaps as a cosmetic concern, they can also create spaces where food particles collect, leading to plaque buildup and an increased risk of gum disease or infection. 

Depending on the severity, diastemas can often be closed with orthodontics, improving not just the look of your smile but also your oral health.

The Orthodontic Treatments We Offer

At Dental Solutions of Encinitas, we take pride in exceeding your expectations when it comes to dental care. That means we don’t believe in a “one size fits all” approach and ensure we create personalized treatment plans for each and every patient. 

This means we will get a better understanding of your orthodontic needs and dental care goals during the consultation. That being said, here are some of the most common and effective services we use when creating your treatment plan:

Invisalign Aligners

For those seeking a discreet and convenient way to straighten their teeth, Invisalign offers a comfortable alternative to traditional braces. These clear, removable aligners gradually shift your teeth into place without the need for metal brackets or wires.

Retainers

After getting straighter teeth and a healthier bite, it is important to maintain your new smile. That is where our retainers come in handy by protecting your teeth and stabilizing your bite. Most often these are used during the nighttime only.

SureSmile

Sure Smile is another style of clear aligner, known for its aesthetic design and stain-resistant aligners. Dr. Vakilian will help you decide between Invisalign or SureSmile depending on your needs and budget.

Patient Reviews

Our patients are at the heart of everything we do, and their stories best reflect the difference orthodontic care can make. From improved confidence to better oral health, our patients consistently share how straightening their teeth has transformed not only their smiles but also their daily lives. 

We’re proud to be a trusted partner in their journeys and invite you to hear directly from those who have experienced the benefits of orthodontics firsthand.

Smile Gallery
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Questions About Orthodontics

It’s natural to have questions when considering orthodontic treatment. Whether you’re curious about Invisalign, treatment timelines, or comfort during the process, understanding what to expect can help you feel more confident in your decision. 

Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions patients ask about orthodontics so you can make an informed choice about your smile.

How do I know if I need orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontics isn’t just for crooked teeth. If you have bite problems (overbite, underbite, crossbite), gaps, crowding, or jaw discomfort, orthodontic treatment may be right for you. A consultation allows us to assess your needs and recommend the best approach.

Is Invisalign as effective as traditional braces?

Yes. Invisalign and other clear aligner systems can treat a wide variety of alignment issues, from mild to moderate cases, in a shorter amount of time than traditional braces, making it more effective. We’ll help you determine the right solution for your smile and goals.

How long does orthodontic treatment usually take?

Treatment time varies depending on the complexity of your case. Some patients see results in as little as 6–12 months, while others may need 18–24 months or longer. Consistency in wearing aligners and attending adjustment appointments is key to staying on track.

Does orthodontic treatment hurt?

You may feel some mild soreness when switching to a new aligner tray, but this is temporary and a sign your teeth are moving. Over-the-counter pain relief or soft foods can help ease any initial discomfort.

At what age should I consider orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontics is great for any age, but adults are increasingly seeking orthodontic care to improve their smiles and bite. If your gums and teeth are healthy, you may be a candidate regardless of age.

Will orthodontics improve my oral health?

Yes. Straighter teeth are easier to brush and floss, which reduces the risk of cavities and gum disease.

Schedule Your Orthodontic Consultation Today

At Dental Solutions of Encinitas, you can depend on us to get you a gorgeous smile with the dental care you deserve. We have all the treatments you need available under one roof, like our extensive selection of orthodontic services.

For straighter teeth, a stronger bite, and a fantastic smile, contact our office today and schedule your consultation.

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