Orthodontics In San Jose, CA
Orthodontics in San Jose, CA, helps align teeth and guide jaw growth so bites function well and smiles look natural. At My AZ Dental, patients can expect clear explanations of options, timelines, and follow-up care tailored to individual goals and oral health.
Orthodontics services we provide:
About Orthodontics
Orthodontics focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. Common concerns include crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites. A thorough orthodontic consultation evaluates how the teeth fit together, how the jaws move, and how the smile supports long-term oral health.
Treatment may involve traditional braces with brackets and wires, ceramic braces that blend with enamel, or clear aligners that are removable and low profile. Early treatment for children can guide jaw growth and make later phases simpler, while adult orthodontics can address long-standing bite issues and improve oral comfort at any age.
How Orthodontic Treatment Can Help
Aligned teeth are easier to clean and distribute bite forces more evenly. The benefits of orthodontic treatment extend beyond appearance and support lifelong oral health.
- Improved chewing efficiency can reduce jaw strain and wear on teeth.
- Better access for brushing and flossing can lower the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Balanced bites can decrease chipping, uneven wear, and tooth sensitivity.
- Clear speech for certain bite problems can improve with proper alignment.
- Stable tooth positions after treatment can make future dental care more predictable.
The Orthodontics Services Process
Every plan begins with a detailed evaluation and moves through a series of steps designed for safe, predictable progress.
- Comprehensive records are taken, including digital scans or impressions, photos, and X-rays.
- A customized plan outlines whether braces or clear aligners are recommended and how they will move teeth.
- Appliance placement or first aligner delivery starts gentle, controlled tooth movement.
- Regular check-ins or aligner changes track progress, refine positioning, and keep treatment on schedule.
- Final detailing ensures the bite fits well and the smile looks even from every angle.
- Retainers help maintain the new alignment and protect your results.
What To Expect During Treatment
Adjusting to new appliances usually takes a few days. Temporary pressure or tenderness is common as teeth begin to move. Soft foods, over-the-counter pain relief as directed, and orthodontic wax can improve comfort. Good home care is essential. Brushing carefully around brackets or cleaning aligners as directed helps prevent staining and inflammation.
Visit frequency varies by appliance. Braces typically require in-office adjustments every four to eight weeks. Clear aligners are changed on a set schedule, with periodic check-ins to confirm teeth are tracking. Treatment length depends on the complexity of tooth movement and bite correction. Many cases range from six months to two years. Retainers after braces or aligners are important to hold the new positions, with wear instructions customized to the case.
Clear Aligners Versus Braces
Both options can be effective, and the choice depends on your bite, goals, and lifestyle. Braces are fixed and always working, which can be helpful for complex movements. Clear aligners are removable and discreet, but they must be worn as prescribed to be effective. During your evaluation, you will review how each option works, the benefits of orthodontic treatment for your situation, and how long orthodontic treatment might take based on your goals.
Keeping Treatment On Track
- Follow wear instructions exactly, especially with clear aligners.
- Protect appliances by avoiding very sticky, hard, or crunchy foods with braces.
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene with fluoride toothpaste and interdental tools.
- Attend scheduled visits so adjustments and refinements can be made on time.
- Use retainers as directed to protect your finished smile.