Orthodontic FAQs

Orthodontics - also known as dentofacial orthopedics - is a specialized form of dentistry focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of dental and facial abnormalities.

As a specialty, orthodontics serves to straighten teeth, correct bite abnormalities, and improve the overall functionality of the mouth.

An orthodontist is a dentist who undergoes two to three years of additional education and training to correct any number of oral health issues.

By using the latest in orthodontic technology and techniques, Dr. Babaan can give Pasadena patients healthy, beautiful smiles.

Selecting an orthodontist in Pasadena who can help you achieve your smile dreams is important.

Orthodontists are dental specialists who diagnose, prevent and treat dental and facial irregularities. A trained orthodontist like Dr. Babaan can give you a level of supervision and guidance that simply isn’t possible with mail-order aligners.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening at age seven. By this age, most children have several permanent teeth that have erupted, letting us evaluate their orthodontic needs.

At this age, Dr. Babaan is able to spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth while some baby teeth are still present.

That’s important, because some orthodontic problems may be easier to correct if they’re found early. Most orthodontic patients begin active braces treatment between ages 9 and 14.

However, orthodontic treatment can be done at any age and we will be glad to see you at any time to discuss the best age for your circumstances.

Yes! While orthodontic treatment is generally done in adolescent years, about 25% of our patients at Pasadena Orthodontics are adults.

Patients in Pasadena who need orthodontic treatment generally have one to three years of active treatment. However, each case is different and everybody responds to braces in their own unique way.

Treatment time depends on each person's specific orthodontic problem, as well as patient cooperation. In general, active treatment lasts between one to three years, with the average treatment lasting around two years.

At your initial consultation with Dr. Babaan at our Pasadena office, he’ll be able to accurately determine how long your treatment will take.

Since every person has a different situation, there is no standard cost for orthodontic treatment. The cost will depend on a number of factors such as the complexity of the case and the estimated length of treatment.

We offer many payment options at no additional cost.

Dr. Babaan will be glad to discuss the cost of treatment and your financing options with you before the active phase of your treatment begins.

The good news is that braces are more affordable today than ever before. Our staff will work with your insurance company to help you get the maximum coverage. We also offer payment plans to ensure that your treatment is within your family’s budget.

Most orthodontic problems are inherited. Examples of these genetic problems are crowding, spacing, protrusion, extra or missing teeth and some jaw growth problems.

Other oral problems are caused by extended thumb- or finger-sucking, dental disease, accidents, the early or late loss of baby teeth, or other causes.

While many people in Pasadena think that orthodontics is primarily a cosmetic treatment, it also has many oral health benefits. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, which lowers the risk of decay.

Furthermore, orthodontics also helps to correct an improper bite, which can cause inefficient chewing, jaw misalignment, joint pain, excessive wear, and stress on the teeth and gums. Orthodontic treatment in Pasadena can help avoid problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss.

Of course, straight teeth look better, which can contribute to higher self-esteem and self-confidence.

Orthodontic treatment is a partnership between the doctor and patient.

Dr. Babaan provides custom-made fixed or removable appliances that use gentle pressure to move teeth into their proper positions.

Your job is to follow Dr. Babaan’s instructions, keep scheduled orthodontic appointments, and maintain excellent oral hygiene to get the best results.

You will also need to see your general dentist as recommended to continue your general dental care.

If you notice an unwanted change in your smile or bite, contact us for a free consultation.

You might need an orthodontic tune-up to regain proper alignment.

The fact is that throughout your lifetime, even though you have had orthodontic treatment, you can expect changes in tooth position.

Many factors at work may cause teeth to shift. Such changes are different for everyone, and most of the time, they are hardly noticeable.

However, on occasion, changes can occur that are disappointing to both the patient and our doctors. Changes in tooth position are not a failure of your orthodontic treatment, but are a natural process. We expect changes in our bodies as we grow older, and teeth are no exception.

To help control and limit these changes, retainers are prescribed after your braces are removed.

Not necessarily, it depends on your specific situation. Less than 2% of patients need to wear headgear.

There are a number of new ways to handle situations where headgear was needed in the past - including rubber bands, functional appliances, and small bone anchors (also known as TADs or temporary anchorage devices).

Braces do not generally "hurt", although you may feel that your teeth are sore after an adjustment appointment.

In these situations, you may take a non-aspirin pain reliever such as Advil or Tylenol while the teeth are still adjusting. Chewing sugarless gum makes the discomfort go away faster.

Braces will not interfere with your regular activities, but if you play a sport where you already wear a mouth guard we can discuss what you should do.

Yes, please continue to see your regular dentist for cleaning and checkups.

Most people do not need to have tooth extraction but it is sometimes necessary for the best orthodontic result. Occasionally it is needed; sometimes it is done to get a nicer facial profile. However, the ultimate decision is up to you.

Yes. Hard crunchy foods and soft sticky foods can break or damage your braces, which could prolong treatment. Sticky foods also make it difficult to clean your teeth while wearing braces.