What Does an Orthodontist Do?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who diagnoses, prevents, and treats misaligned teeth and jaws. Unlike general dentists, orthodontists complete an additional two to three years of residency training focused specifically on bite correction and teeth straightening. This specialized education allows them to handle everything from simple spacing issues to complex jaw alignment problems. Board-certified orthodontists like the doctors at DiCiccio Freeman Orthodontics in Fresno, CA bring this advanced training to every smile they treat.
The team treats many conditions that affect how your teeth fit together. When there isn’t enough room for all your teeth, crowding develops, and gaps between teeth signal a spacing issue. You might also have an overbite, where upper teeth sit too far forward over lower ones, or an underbite, which reverses that relationship. Crossbites happen when some upper teeth close inside the lower ones instead of outside. Open bites, where the front teeth don’t touch when you close your mouth, are another common concern.
These aren’t just cosmetic concerns. Misaligned teeth and jaws can affect how you chew, speak, and care for your teeth. That’s why the team works with you and your family at every age. Kids, teens, and adults all benefit from straighter smiles and healthier bites.
How Orthodontic Treatment Works: Step by Step
Orthodontic treatment has clear steps from your first visit to your final smile. Here’s what to expect:
- Free consult. The team takes digital scans and digital X-rays to see exactly what’s happening with your teeth and jaw. At DiCiccio Freeman Orthodontics, these scans are quick and comfortable. Don’t worry, they’re painless and goop-free!
- Custom treatment plan. Digital imaging maps out how your teeth will move over time. Pretty cool, right? You’ll see your projected smile before treatment even starts, so there are no surprises.
- Appliance placement. Whether you choose metal braces, clear braces, or clear aligners, the team fits your appliances and walks you through how to care for them.
- Regular adjustment visits. You’ll return every four to eight weeks for progress checks and adjustments. At DiCiccio Freeman Orthodontics, these visits are quick and designed to fit your schedule. They keep your treatment on track.
- Retainer phase. After active treatment ends, retainers hold your teeth in their new positions. This phase is critical for keeping your smile long-term.
The entire process typically takes 12 to 24 months, though your specific timeline depends on your treatment goals and starting point.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
Sure, straighter teeth look great. But the benefits go deeper than that. Here’s what aligning your teeth can do for you:
How Does Orthodontic Treatment Improve Oral Health?
Straight teeth are easier to brush and floss. When teeth overlap or crowd together, food and plaque hide in spots your toothbrush can’t reach. Aligning your teeth reduces your risk of cavities and gum disease.
Many Fresno families don’t realize how much their oral hygiene improves once teeth are properly aligned. Every surface becomes accessible to daily brushing and flossing, which makes a real difference over time.
When your teeth fit together properly, you also chew more efficiently. A balanced bite reduces strain on your jaw joints, which can ease headaches and jaw discomfort. These functional improvements often matter just as much as the cosmetic ones.
Can Orthodontics Boost Your Confidence?
A smile you’re proud of changes how you feel in photos, job interviews, and everyday conversations. Many of our neighbors say their self-esteem improves noticeably during treatment. That boost in confidence shows up at work, at school, and in social settings where you used to hold back.
Treatment Options by Age
Different stages of life call for different approaches. Here’s how orthodontic treatment fits kids, teens, and adults:
- Early treatment for kids. Early orthodontic evaluation can catch developing issues. Assessments during your child’s younger years can pinpoint problems early and allow the team to use simpler, more effective, and often cheaper treatments than if waiting until later.
- Discreet options for adults. Clear aligners give you a nearly invisible way to straighten your teeth without metal brackets or wires. You can improve your smile while maintaining your professional image.
What Are the Differences Between Metal Braces, Clear Braces, and Clear Aligners?
Choosing the right orthodontic appliance depends on your specific needs, lifestyle, and budget. Here’s how the main options compare:
| Treatment Type | Visibility | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metal braces | Most visible | Complex cases, all ages | Most affordable, highly effective |
| Clear braces | Less visible | Moderate to complex cases | Similar effectiveness to metal |
| Clear aligners | Nearly invisible | Mild to moderate cases | Removable, requires discipline |
| Self-ligating braces (Damon System) | Varies | Efficiency-focused treatment | Fewer adjustments, less friction |
Metal braces
Metal braces remain the most versatile option. They handle even the most complex alignment issues and typically cost less than other treatments. Today’s brackets are smaller and more comfortable than older designs.
Clear braces
Want something subtler? Clear braces work like metal braces but use tooth-colored brackets that blend with your teeth. They’re a popular choice for adults and teens who want effective treatment with a less noticeable look.
Clear aligners
Clear aligners are a comfortable, removable, and nearly invisible way to straighten your teeth without the hassle of brackets or wires. Since they’re removable, clear aligners break the rules and let you enjoy your favorite snacks and brush your teeth with ease. They work best for mild to moderate cases.
Self-ligating braces
Self-ligating braces like the Damon System use a sliding mechanism instead of elastic ties. This design decreases friction, so teeth move more smoothly along the archwire.
At DiCiccio Freeman Orthodontics in Fresno, the team will recommend the best option based on your case complexity, treatment goals, and personal preferences.
How Much Does Orthodontic Treatment Cost?
How much do braces cost?
Orthodontic treatment typically ranges from $3,000 to $7,000 for braces, depending on case complexity and treatment duration, while clear aligners generally fall between $3,500 and $6,500.
Several factors affect your final cost:
| Cost Factor | Impact on Price |
|---|---|
| Treatment type | Clear aligners and clear braces often cost more than metal braces |
| Case complexity | More severe alignment issues require longer treatment |
| Treatment duration | Longer treatment means more office visits |
| Location | Costs vary by region and office |
The good news? Most orthodontic offices make treatment accessible through flexible payment options. At DiCiccio Freeman Orthodontics, monthly payments start at $99 per month for social touch-ups, $159 per month for limited arch treatment, and $259 per month for full two-arch treatment.
Your specific payment depends on your down payment and insurance benefits. Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of orthodontic treatment, so check with your provider to understand your benefits before your free consult. Fresno families often find that between insurance and monthly payment plans, treatment is more affordable than they expected.
Free consultations help you understand exactly what your treatment will cost. You’ll get a clear breakdown of fees, insurance coverage, and payment options before making any decisions.
Who Is a Candidate for Orthodontic Treatment?
Most people are candidates for orthodontic treatment, including kids age seven and up, teens, and adults of any age. Good candidates have healthy gums and teeth or have addressed existing dental issues. A free consult with a board-certified orthodontist like the doctors at DiCiccio Freeman Orthodontics determines the best approach.
- Kids (age 7 and up). The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. Not every child needs treatment right away, but early assessment catches issues when they’re easiest to address.
- Teens. By this point, most adult teeth have come in, making it an ideal time for full treatment. Teens have plenty of options, from metal braces to clear aligners.
- Adults. No matter your age, your smile is never over the hill! Many of our neighbors are adults choosing to straighten their teeth, whether they missed treatment as teens or their teeth have shifted over time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontic Treatment
How do I choose the best orthodontist?
Look for a doctor who offers free consultations, uses modern technology like digital scans, and has strong reviews from neighbors. Board certification confirms specialized training. Visit the office to see if the team makes you feel comfortable. Practices with experience treating people like you, whether you’re an adult or bringing your kiddos, often deliver better smiles.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Most orthodontic treatments last 12 to 24 months. Simple cases may finish faster, while complex alignment issues can take longer. Factors like age, case complexity, and whether you choose braces or clear aligners all influence the final duration. The team will give you a realistic timeline during your free consult based on your specific needs.
Does insurance cover braces?
Yes, many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits, though coverage varies widely. Some plans cover a set dollar amount, while others pay a percentage of treatment costs. Check with your insurance provider and ask the office to verify your benefits before starting treatment.
Are clear aligners as effective as braces?
For mild to moderate alignment issues, clear aligners deliver excellent results comparable to braces. Complex cases involving significant jaw misalignment or severe crowding may still require metal braces. The team will recommend the most effective option for your situation.
What is a free orthodontic consultation?
A free consult is an initial visit where the team evaluates your smile, discusses treatment options, and explains costs with no obligation. You’ll typically receive digital scans or digital X-rays, learn about your specific alignment issues, and get answers to your questions. It’s the best way to understand what treatment involves before committing.
How do I compare orthodontic practices?
Start by reading reviews and checking credentials. Every orthodontic practice has a different approach, so look for one that prioritizes transparency and uses up-to-date technology. Ask about their experience with cases like yours during your free consult. The right office should make you feel like you’re a neighbor, not a number. That’s what we aim for at every free consult.
Thinking about treatment for yourself or your family? The right doctor makes all the difference. A free consult is the best first step to understanding your options, your timeline, and what your smile could look like. Dr. Pat DiCiccio, Dr. David Freeman, and Dr. Lucas DiCiccio at DiCiccio Freeman Orthodontics are always happy to answer your questions.