San Clemente Orthodontist

When you are looking to straighten your teeth, align your jaw, or otherwise, correct a spacing issue in your mouth, you may need an orthodontist. An orthodontist is not the same as a general dentist; however, many dental offices will either have an orthodontist working in the clinic or be able to recommend one to you.

No matter your age, exploring orthodontic treatments can be beneficial to correct issues like crooked teeth. At John Redmond Orthodontics, it’s our mission to help our patients receive newfound confidence in their smiles. Whether you’re dealing with dental pain or are seeking treatments solely for cosmetic purposes, our team is here to assist! Call us today to work with our San Clemente, CA orthodontist.

What is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a field of dental care that involves the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of malocclusions and dental displacements. In other words, with less medical terminology, it involves the care and alignment of your jaw and teeth; thereby, helping you to have a better facial profile and straight teeth.

There are a number of specialties in the orthodontic profession. For instance, some orthodontists only work with jaw issues, others work with children, and there are some who focus on the surgical procedures that may come along with select treatment. Overall, an orthodontist will assist in positioning the teeth and jaw, and in 99% of cases, the patient will be very pleased, albeit shocked, about how they look after the procedure.

An orthodontist will be required to go through additional schooling and training after they have completed dental schools. The amount of schooling needed will be dependent on their field of study; for example, an orthodontic surgeon may have to go to school for a longer period of time.

If you are looking for an orthodontist, please consider calling John Redmond Orthodontics.

Orthodontist San Clemente, CA

For decades, our professional team has been helping patients across many different backgrounds and walks of life achieve their desired smile. Generally, people mainly associate orthodontic treatments with children and teenagers, but adults of any age may benefit from our services. Even when you’ve reached adulthood and have all your teeth, it’s still possible to correct their position. The process can take longer since bone tissue becomes denser as you get older, but with enough patience, you can achieve that new smile.

Our orthodontic treatments aren’t just for cosmetic purposes either. Treatments like braces can help correct many dental issues that can affect your quality of life. Dental issues like overbites, underbites, crowded and crooked teeth, and a misaligned jaw can all make it harder to eat and talk. Some patients with these issues can also experience chronic pain. Our treatments can also prevent more problems from developing, like cavities and gum disease.

We use modern treatments paired with a personalized touch as we understand that every case is different. We also offer flexible treatment plans that are specifically crafted for your dental needs with the goal of providing you with the best, most efficient treatments without disrupting your daily life. When we meet with you, we’ll go over our recommended options and how much they cost.

Why Orthodontic Experience Matters

When exploring any type of dental service, experience matters, and our San Clemente orthodontist brings decades of experience!

• Our orthodontist, Dr. M. John Redmond, has been providing care to his patients for over 20 years. We also have several staff members, including RDAs and Certified Orthodontic Assistants. Together, we provide comprehensive dental work for our patients. From extended treatment plans to regular cleanings, we’re here to help you achieve that perfect smile!
• Our team understands how stressful it can be to pay for dental care, which is why we can work with you. We can walk you through our different treatment options and payment options. We recommend correcting any dental issues as soon as possible because dental issues can worsen over time if not properly handled.
• Our team has experience working with both children and adults. We understand that children can often be scared or have anxiety when going to the dentist, but our staff makes sure that any person who walks into our office is comfortable. Besides providing your child with treatments, we can help them establish a good dental hygiene routine.

From regular cleanings to specific treatments like braces, you can trust our team to help! Reach out to us at John Redmond Orthodontics to work with our San Clemente orthodontist!

When an Orthodontist May Be Helpful

Contrary to what you might think, orthodontic treatment is not for cosmetic purposes only. Rather, it is often very important to receive, especially for young children who have overcrowded teeth.

When a child’s tooth falls out too early, either because of an accident, poor hygiene, or even genetic reasons, the nearby teeth might move into the small space. This can cause the actual palate shape to change. Eventually, when the new tooth is ready to move in, there is no space. This can result in severely crooked teeth, or even significant pain. In the past, teeth were pulled to make space. Now, with orthodontic treatment, space can be made without having to lose any teeth!

An orthodontist can help you to:

• Correct an underbite or an overbite
• Realign the jaw
• Fix crooked teeth
• Improve the bite of the teeth
• Improve an overcrowded mouth
• To fix these issues, your orthodontist may recommend:
• Metal braces
• Spacers
• Expanders
• Appliance
• Clear aligners
• Head-gear
• Rubber bands
• + More

What you may need will largely depend on your own teeth, your bite, jaw alignment, and so forth. If you’re interested in orthodontic care, or you believe it may be the solution for your child, please call John Redmond Orthodontics. We will be happy to schedule an appointment that will include an oral exam, assessment, diagnosis, and recommended course of treatment. We can also discuss with you insurance procedures and payment plan options. To schedule an appointment with an orthodontist, please call John Redmond Orthodontics.

If you’re looking for treatment of orthodontics in San Clemente, California, then you already understand the long-lasting value of a beautiful smile and a good bite. The team at John Redmond Orthodontics in San Clemente, CA has been helping patients for decades and we’re ready to help you!

Treatment Options

Orthodontia was once associated with only clunky, metal braces that provided a silver smile. But today, there are so many more options available. These new options are not only more comfortable to wear but also less noticeable when patients speak and smile.

Your diagnosis will dictate the best treatment option for you, but in general here are some of the possibilities:

• Traditional braces: a bracket is affixed to each tooth. Wires thread through the brackets.
• Ceramic braces: these work the same way, but are tooth-colored. These are next to invisible.
• Self-Ligating braces: available in metal and ceramic (also next to invisible). Built in clips hold wires to the brackets.
• Clear aligners: patients are responsible for putting these in and removing them. Each one is worn for 2-3 weeks. The full number of aligners needed depends on the diagnosis.
• Retainers: these clear, thin plastic-like molds fit the exact placement of teeth. They can be removable or permanent and are meant to hold teeth in the their new positions once orthodontic treatment is complete.

Orthodontists can also supply other types of protective and preventive devices. Mouth guards are often used by athletes to protect teeth from trauma during play. An orthodontist can fit you with a custom mouth guard to deliver the most protection.

If you or a loved one has trouble with sleep apnea an orthodontist can fit you with a custom device built to hold the lower jaw slightly open and slightly forward.

Information On Dental Bridges

At John Redmond Orthodontics, our orthodontist in San Clemente, CA is committed to providing outstanding orthodontic services. We care about enhancing our patients’ beautiful smiles and building lasting relationships with them. Visiting the dentist is often viewed as scary which is why it’s always been our goal to change that. Our team at John Redmond Orthodontics will provide you with quality dental care and will make every effort to put you at ease. If you need an orthodontist in San Clemente, CA, we encourage you to call us for an exam.

Our orthodontist in San Clemente, CA from John Redmond Orthodontics provides dental bridges for patients who are in need of one. A dental bridge is used to replace missing teeth. They can fill in gaps when a permanent tooth is missing or had to be pulled. A dental bridge can restore a patient’s teeth to full functionality. In addition, they can improve a patient’s aesthetics by filling gaps with healthy and natural looking artificial teeth.

Why Is A Bridge Needed?

Dental bridges are used to replace missing teeth. When a tooth is missing, there are many negative effects on the appearance and function of the mouth, as an orthodontist in San Clemente, CA might tell you. This might include any of the following:

• Speech can be negatively affected by a missing tooth and the person may develop a lisp as a result.
• Visibly missing teeth can impact a person’s appearance and their self esteem.
• When a tooth is missing, the adjacent teeth may move away from their normal location. This can cause the teeth to loosen and lead to losing more of them.
• If multiple teeth are missing, the person’s ability to chew can be affected which in turn can affect their diet and ability to receive proper nutrition.

By replacing missing teeth with a dental bridge, excellent functionality and aesthetic results can be obtained.

Types of Bridges

There are two categories of dental bridges: removable and fixed dental bridges. Fixed dental bridges are the most common as they are permanently bonded in the mouth and only your general dentist can remove them. Removable dental bridges are held in place by metal clasps. They are not usually recommended unless fixed bridges are unable to be used. Your orthodontist in San Clemente, CA can work in tandem with your general dentist to make sure you’re provided with the particular method of care you need.

• Traditional Fixed Dental Bridge: These are the most commonly used dental bridges. They consist of one or more artificial teeth fused to two crowns which are attached to the teeth adjacent to the missing teeth.
• Bonded Dental Bridge: The bonded dental bridge features one artificial tooth that has two metal bands on the edges which attach directly to both adjacent teeth. They are not as strong as a traditional fixed bridge, so they are typically used for replacing missing teeth near the front of the mouth where the biting pressure is less.
• Cantilever Dental Bridge: This bridge would be used if there was only an adjacent tooth on one side of the missing tooth or teeth. The cantilever dental bridge is most commonly used when molars are missing.

The type of dental bridge best suited for each patient will depend on the number and location of missing teeth, as well as budget and condition of the remaining teeth, and should be discussed with their general dentist or orthodontist in San Clemente, CA.

Dental Bridge Oral Health Tips

Properly maintaining your oral health is essential, and while San Clemente, CA dental bridges can help, there are still actions you need to take. Dental bridges offer a reliable solution by replacing missing teeth and restoring both function and aesthetics. If you’ve recently received dental bridges then congratulations! Here are five adjustments you should make to ensure the longevity and success of your new dental bridges.

1. Follow a Proper Oral Hygiene Routine

After getting dental bridges, it’s crucial to maintain excellent oral hygiene to prevent dental issues and maintain the health of your remaining teeth. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Make sure to pay attention to the areas around your dental bridges, ensuring they are clean and free from plaque and food debris. Be sure to remember to floss daily, ideally whenever you brush your teeth after a meal.

2. Choose Tooth-Friendly Foods

While dental bridges are designed to restore your ability to chew, it’s important to make adjustments to your diet temporarily to allow for proper healing and adjustment. Stick to soft foods during the initial days after getting your dental bridges. Opt for mashed potatoes, soups, smoothies, and other soft, nutrient-rich options. However, this doesn’t mean you have to completely give up your favorite hard foods. Instead, you can gradually introduce harder foods, but you should talk to your orthodontist before you decide it’s time for particularly hard foods like hard candy.

3. Avoid Bad Habits

Certain habits can be detrimental to the longevity of your dental bridges. Avoid biting or chewing on hard objects like pens, ice, or fingernails, as this can damage the bridges. Additionally, refrain from using your teeth as tools to open packages or bottles, as this can exert excessive pressure on the bridges and compromise their integrity. Patients that have a problem with clenching or grinding their teeth can find it hard to quit as they may instinctively do so. However, a night guard can help prevent the issue, especially when sleeping.

4. Don’t Forget To Have Regular Check-Ups in San Clemente, CA

Regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining the health of your dental bridges and overall oral health. Schedule routine visits to your dentist in San Clemente, CA, for professional cleanings and examinations. Your dentist will monitor the condition of your dental bridges, identify any potential issues, and provide timely interventions if needed. Having these check-ups can ensure your bridges continue to last for a longtime while also improving your oral health as a whole.

5. Communicate Any Concerns

If you experience any discomfort, pain, or other concerns related to your dental bridges, don’t hesitate to communicate with your dentist. They may need to make certain adjustments to make your teeth more comfortable. Promptly addressing any issues will prevent further complications and ensure your dental bridges function effectively.

Dental bridges offer an excellent solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring your smile’s functionality and appearance. By following these five adjustments after getting dental bridges, you can maintain optimal oral health and enjoy the benefits of your new dental bridges for years to come. Remember to maintain good oral hygiene, choose tooth-friendly foods, avoid bad habits, schedule regular dental check-ups, and communicate any concerns with your dentist. With these adjustments, you’ll be on your way to a healthier and happier smile. Discover more about San Clemente dental bridges by calling John Redmond Orthodontics today!

Orthodontist FAQs

Patients come to John Redmond Orthodontics with a lot of questions, and that’s a good thing. Understanding your treatment options, knowing when to seek care, and feeling confident in the process all start with having the right information. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we hear from patients and families in San Clemente and throughout Orange County.

Why Use Orthodontics in San Clemente, CA?

When you think of caring for your teeth you may focus on what your dentist does for you: teeth cleanings, fillings, x-rays, etc. But a quality, comprehensive dental health care plan should also include orthodontic treatment. And orthodontics in San Clemente, CA is for all ages!

Children and teenagers are often associated with orthodontic treatment. In some cases, certain results may only be possible if treatment is started before someone has finished growing. However, through Invisalign and other more discrete treatments, adults of all ages are seeing positive results.

The benefits of orthodontics in San Clemente, CA extend beyond the visible smile. Patients experiencing the following can take advantage of orthodontics in San Clemente, CA:

• Protruding teeth
• Difficulty speaking
• Difficulty chewing or biting
• Inability to close lips completely
• Grinding/clenching teeth
• Jaws that shift or make sounds

What is the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?

You likely have annual (or 6-month) appointments with your dentist, and it is easy to think of them like your family doctor. When you go to your dentist, you go for regular check-ups, cavity fillings, and sometimes more advanced treatments like whitening. An orthodontist, however, typically has an additional two to three years of training and education so they can specialize in advanced tooth options like straightening with Invisalign or braces. If you do go to a dentist to get Invisalign or braces, it is important to check and see what kind of additional training they have had.

When should you start seeing an orthodontist?

This will depend entirely on the person. Many adults will see an orthodontist if they do not like the look and feel of their teeth. Popular treatments that adults see from orthodontists are:

• Teeth Whitening
• Braces/Invisalign
• Teeth Shaving
• Veneers

Children, on the other hand, can also see an orthodontist in San Clemente, California, especially when their parents have decided to fix crooked teeth early on with braces.

Should my child get an orthodontic checkup?

Although you do not have to take your child to the orthodontist for a checkup, it can help to do so by the age of 7 to ensure that they are not having any problems with their jaw growth or their emerging teeth. If an orthodontist can spot this earlier, it can usually help the child get on a healthier track for taking care of their teeth earlier on.

Since orthodontists are specialized, do I need a referral?

No. Although it is common practice for a dentist to refer to an orthodontist if they spot any problems, you do not need any type of referral to go see one.

Why John Redmond Orthodontics

For decades, the team at John Redmond Orthodontics has been helping people of all ages to smile brighter while improving biting, chewing and speaking for our patients.

Dr. M. John Redmond completed his master’s thesis in digital orthodontics and treatment predictions. He is an active member in several professional associations, including the American Association of Orthodontists.

Dr. Redmond leads a team of dedicated coordinators and certified orthodontic assistants who are thrilled to design better smiles. When you’re looking for a San Clemente, CA orthodontics team look no further than John Redmond Orthodontics. To schedule your consultation, call us now.

My child needs braces. How long can I expect them to wear them?

Unfortunately, there is no set length of time for a child who needs braces. This will depend entirely on how misaligned the teeth are, and what type of treatment you choose to get for your child.

Have a question that isn’t covered here? We’re happy to talk through it. Every patient’s situation is different, and the best way to get answers that actually apply to your case is to come in for a consultation. Contact us to schedule your appointment. Dr. Redmond will take the time to walk you through your options and make sure you leave with a clear picture of where things stand.