Braces and Orthodontics in Northridge
A misaligned bite affects more than just how your smile looks in photos, it can make chewing uneven, wear teeth down unevenly, and make certain spots harder to keep clean over the years. Braces and orthodontic treatment gradually move your teeth into proper alignment, correcting these issues at the source rather than just managing the symptoms.
At our Northridge office, we assess your bite, walk you through which orthodontic option fits your situation, and build a plan around your teeth and your life, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
What is Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment is the process of correcting misaligned teeth and jaws using appliances like braces, which apply steady pressure over time to guide teeth into their proper position. Traditional braces use brackets and wires adjusted at regular visits, gradually shifting teeth and improving bite alignment. Treatment length varies depending on the complexity of the case, often running from one to three years. Beyond straightening teeth for appearance, orthodontic treatment also improves how your teeth fit together, making it easier to bite, chew, and maintain oral hygiene long-term.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
Improves bite function
Properly aligned teeth make biting and chewing more even and comfortable.
Easier to clean
Straight teeth are less likely to trap food and plaque in hard-to-reach spots.
Reduces uneven wear
A corrected bite prevents certain teeth from taking on more pressure than others.
Long-term jaw comfort
Proper alignment can ease strain on the jaw joint over time.
Signs You Might Need Braces or Orthodontics
These are common indicators that it’s worth having your bite evaluated.
- Crowded or overlapping teeth- Teeth that don’t have enough room to sit properly often need correction.
- Noticeable gaps between teeth- Spacing issues can affect both appearance and bite function.
- An overbite, underbite, or crossbite- Bite misalignments can affect chewing and put uneven pressure on certain teeth.
- Difficulty biting or chewing comfortably- Ongoing discomfort while eating can point to an underlying alignment issue.
- Jaw clicking or discomfort- Some jaw joint issues are connected to how the teeth and bite line up.
Process of Getting Braces or Orthodontic Treatment
Here’s what starting orthodontic treatment at Clove Dental Northridge office looks like.
Initial evaluation
We examine your teeth, jaw, and bite to determine what kind of correction is needed.
Diagnostic images
X-rays or scans help us see the full picture, including tooth roots and jaw structure.
Treatment planning
We map out the recommended approach, whether traditional braces or another option, along with an estimated timeline.
Placement and adjustments
Braces are placed and adjusted at regular visits to keep teeth moving as planned.
Retention phase
Once treatment is complete, a retainer helps keep your teeth in their new position.
Schedule Your Orthodontic Consultation in Northridge
If you’ve been dealing with crowded teeth, an uneven bite, or jaw discomfort, it’s worth having it looked at sooner rather than later. Our Northridge team will evaluate your bite, explain what’s going on in plain terms, and lay out a treatment plan that fits your goals and your schedule.
There’s no pressure, just a clear picture of your options and what each one involves. Reach out today to schedule your orthodontic consultation and take the first step toward a healthier bite.
More of the Services We Offer
FAQs
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How long does orthodontic treatment usually take?
Most cases run between one and three years, depending on the complexity of the correction needed. We'll give you a clearer timeline after your evaluation.
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At what age should someone get braces?
There's no single right age. While many patients start in their early teens, orthodontic treatment can be effective for adults as well.
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Do braces hurt?
You may feel some soreness for a few days after placement or adjustments, but it typically fades quickly and isn't a sign of a problem.
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Will I need to wear a retainer after braces come off?
Yes. A retainer holds your teeth in their corrected position and helps prevent them from gradually shifting back over time.
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Can adults get orthodontic treatment too?
Absolutely. A growing number of our orthodontic patients are adults looking to correct issues that were never addressed earlier in life.