FAQ
Frequently asked questions
General
Do I need a referral to see an orthodontist?
No. You can book directly with any of our seven offices — no referral needed.
When should my child first see an orthodontist?
By age 7, per the American Association of Orthodontists. Our evaluation for kids is free.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes — interest-free in-house financing, low down payments and monthly plans. We accept most major credit cards and insurance plans.
Do you accept Medi-Cal / Denti-Cal?
Yes, Medi-Cal/Denti-Cal is accepted. Come in for an evaluation to see if treatment could be covered.
Do you offer Invisalign?
Yes. We are an Invisalign Diamond Plus provider and offer Invisalign for kids, teens and adults.
¿Hablan español?
Sí. Se habla español — pida hablar con un miembro del equipo que hable español.
How long does treatment take?
Most treatment takes 6–24 months depending on the case. We give you a clear estimate at your consultation.
What should I bring to my first visit?
Your insurance card, a list of medications, and any completed new patient forms.
Invisalign® Clear Aligners
Does Invisalign work as well as braces?
For many crowding, spacing and bite problems, yes. Your orthodontist will tell you honestly at your consultation if braces would get a better result.
Can teens use Invisalign?
Yes. Invisalign for kids and teens is designed for growing smiles and includes compliance indicators to help track wear time.
Is Invisalign painful?
Most people feel mild pressure for a day or two with each new set. That means the aligners are working.
Braces
Do braces hurt?
Placing braces does not hurt. Teeth may feel sore for a few days after placement and adjustments; soft foods and over-the-counter relief help.
What foods should I avoid with braces?
Avoid hard, sticky and chewy foods like popcorn, hard candy, gum and caramel.
Are clear braces worth it?
They are a great choice if you want braces that blend in. They work much like metal braces.
Early Treatment (7 & Up)
Why age 7?
By age 7, the first adult molars and incisors have usually come in, so an orthodontist can spot crossbites, crowding and jaw issues early.
Does my child need braces at 7?
Usually not. Most kids just need periodic check-ins. We only recommend Phase 1 when it clearly helps.
Is the evaluation really free?
Yes. The early evaluation for kids is free.
Adult Orthodontics
Am I too old for braces?
No. Many of our patients are adults, and healthy teeth can be moved at any age.
Will people notice?
Invisalign is nearly invisible and clear braces blend in with your teeth.
My teeth shifted after braces as a kid. Can you help?
Yes. Invisalign Touch-Up often fixes minor shifting in as little as 6 months.
Your first visit is a free consultation.
Free evaluations for kids 7+, interest-free payment plans and seven offices across the Sacramento Valley.