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   248 reviews

Choosing an Orthodontist in San Clemente and Questions to Ask

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Orthodontic treatment is a relationship that can last a year or more, with regular visits and plenty of questions along the way. That makes choosing the right orthodontist a decision worth some care. This guide covers which credentials to verify, what to ask during a consultation, and the practical details that matter for families in San Clemente and nearby communities.

Start With Credentials

Every dentist and orthodontist practicing in California must hold a state license, and you can confirm that status yourself. The Dental Board of California directs consumers to the state’s license search tool, which shows whether a license is current.

Specialty training is the next thing to check. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, orthodontists complete an additional 24 to 36 months of accredited residency training after dental school, and some states allow general dentists to offer orthodontic care without that training. Our guide to orthodontists and dentists explains the difference in more detail. The AAO’s orthodontist locator lists member orthodontists, which is another quick way to confirm specialty training.

Questions About Training and Experience

It’s completely reasonable to ask about a doctor’s background. These questions are a good place to start.

Where did you complete your dental degree and orthodontic residency?
Do you focus your practice on orthodontics?
Which professional organizations are you a member of?
How often do you treat cases like mine?
Who will I see at routine appointments?

Questions About Your Treatment Plan

A good plan should make sense to you before you agree to it. Ask questions until it does.

What is causing the problem you see?
What are my treatment options, and why do you recommend this one?
What could happen if I wait or choose not to treat it?
About how long will treatment take, and how often will I visit?
What will I need to do at home?
What happens after treatment, and what kind of retainer will I need?

Writing these down ahead of time makes it easier to remember what to ask once you’re in the chair, and our guide to your first visit explains how that appointment typically unfolds.

Questions About Cost and Scheduling

What does the estimate include, and what could change it?
How does the office work with my insurance?
Which payment options are available?
What are the office hours, and are there after-school appointments?
How are emergencies or broken appliances handled?

Our guide to insurance and financing can help you prepare for the financial part of the conversation.

What a Good Consultation Feels Like

A strong consultation leaves you better informed, not pressured. The orthodontist should take time to examine your teeth and bite, explain what they see in plain language, and walk through more than one option when more than one makes sense. You should feel comfortable asking questions, including ones you think might sound basic. Clear answers about cost and timing are a good sign, as is a willingness to say when treatment isn’t needed yet.

Pay attention to the team as well. Friendly, organized staff and a clean, welcoming office often reflect how a practice runs day to day. Many families find it helpful to take an office tour before their first visit.

Look at Results and Reviews

Photos of completed cases can show the kinds of changes a practice achieves, and the office shares before-and-after results from real patients. Reviews from other families offer a sense of what the experience is like over time, and patient testimonials are a helpful place to start. Keep in mind that every case is different, and your results depend on your own evaluation and treatment.

Location and Scheduling for San Clemente Families

Convenience matters more than people expect, since treatment involves regular visits. Consider how long the drive is from home, school, or work, and whether appointment times fit your routine. The office is located at 181 Avenida Vaquero, Suite C, in San Clemente, which is convenient for families in San Clemente, Dana Point, and San Juan Capistrano, as well as those coming from Laguna Niguel or North San Diego County. Monday and Wednesday appointments run into the early evening, which can help students avoid missing class.

If you have more than one child in treatment, ask whether siblings can be scheduled back to back. Our orthodontic FAQs answer other common questions about areas served and scheduling.

Compare Thoughtfully

Getting more than one opinion is common, especially for complex cases. When comparing practices, look beyond price alone. Consider training, the clarity of the explanation, the options offered, how the team treats you, and how well the schedule fits your life. Bringing the same list of questions for choosing an orthodontist to each visit makes comparisons much fairer.

Meet Dr. Redmond

Dr. John Redmond graduated with honors from the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry and completed a Certificate in Orthodontics and a Master of Science in Craniofacial Biology at the University of Southern California. He’s a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists, the American Dental Association, and the California Dental Association, and he has served as president and now treasurer of the San Clemente Educational Foundation. If you’re looking for a San Clemente orthodontist, request an appointment for a complimentary consultation and bring your questions along.

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Patient Reviews

    
 
 
         
   Stella M 
 
 
 
  John Redmond Orthodontics is such a wonderful place. The staff is always so kind and helpful, they are flexible with scheduling, the services are top notch. The best!
  
 
        
   Whitney L 
 
 
 
  This office is the best!! Everyone is always so friendly and helpful. Dr. John has made both my kids smiles perfect!
  
 
        
   Katelyn C 
 
 
 
  I currently have three kids going through braces here!  The staff is so friendly and helpful, especially with changes in insurance. They are mindful of each patient…who is fearful, etc and talk them through each new phase. We have been so happy here!
  
 
        
   Stacy F 
 
 
 
  Dr. Redmond and all of his staff have been amazing. We have been going here for years as he treated all three of our kids! Highly recommend.
  
 
        
   Austin 
 
 
 
  Going to rate 5 stars since John and the back-of-house staff are excellent; kind, professional, and skilled. Unfortunately, the front desk are not quite up to par. When I called about retainer removal, I was told about a fee that wasn’t accurate/true, and when I asked for clarity, I was met with dismissive responses like “we can talk about it when you get here,” despite the fact I live over an hour away. On arrival, I wasn’t greeted and was instead cut off with “you’re checked in” before I could speak. The hostility from the receptionists was obvious and unprofessional, which overshadows the otherwise great clinical team.
  
 
        
   Ella I 
 
 
 
  I came to Dr. Redmond a little over half way through my 4- year braces journey. As soon as I stepped through the doors, He and his team welcomed me in with excellence and enthusiasm. I cannot speak highly enough of the incredible amount of detail and dedication Dr. Redmond puts into ensuring each of his patients leave his doors looking and feeling confident with their smile. Not only is Dr. Redmond is a master at his craft, he is an incredibly likable and down to earth person. His exemplary attitude, work ethic, and leadership are reflected in each one of the wonderful dental assistant/staff. The office is pristine, with every single detail you can think of taken care of! From upbeat music to refreshments upon walk in, John Redmond Orthodontics is the best of the best! The staff is organized, professional, and absolutely the kindest people ever! A big thank you to each of them for providing such thoughtful and thorough care. After finishing my treatment, I can surely say I have never been more confident in my smile!
  
 
        
   Shellee C 
 
 
 
  Dr John is an excellent communicator. He gave me a clear understanding of my options and allowed me to make my decision. I’m so happy with the results. The progress has been wonderful and the staff is extra friendly! Happy that I’m a customer! 😀
  
 
        
   Jack F 
 
 
 
  Great orthodontist. friendly and helpful staff. very clean and quick service. cannot recommend them enough!
  
 
        
   Landan Y 
 
 
 
  Dr. John and his team are the best staff. He fixed my and my siblings teeth and made us all very happy with our smiles. I recommended John Redmonds Orthodontics to anyone who wants to feel confident in their smiles!