FAQs

At what age should my child have their first orthodontic evaluation?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. By this age, your child has enough permanent teeth for an orthodontist to identify any developing bite, spacing, or alignment concerns. An early evaluation does not always mean early treatment — but it gives our team at Camino Real Orthodontics the opportunity to monitor your child’s growth and act at the most beneficial time if needed.

How do I know if I need orthodontic treatment?

Common signs that orthodontic treatment may be beneficial include crowded or overlapping teeth, noticeable gaps between teeth, difficulty chewing or biting, a jaw that shifts or makes sounds, mouth breathing, or teeth that do not meet properly when biting. The best way to know for sure is to schedule a consultation at Camino Real Orthodontics. Dr. Hassey will thoroughly evaluate your bite and alignment and provide an honest recommendation tailored to your needs.

What orthodontic treatment options does Camino Real Orthodontics offer?

We offer a comprehensive range of orthodontic treatments to suit patients at every stage of life. Our options include traditional metal braces, clear ceramic braces, and Invisalign and Invisalign Teen. We also provide orthodontic treatment for all ages, including Phase 1 interceptive treatment for younger children.

What is the difference between metal braces, clear braces, and Invisalign?

Traditional metal braces use stainless steel brackets and wires bonded to the teeth and are ideal for all levels of complexity. Clear ceramic braces work the same way but use tooth-colored brackets for a more discreet appearance. Invisalign uses a series of removable, nearly invisible plastic aligners and is popular with adults and teens who want the most discreet option. The right choice depends on your individual case, lifestyle, and goals — our team will help you decide during your consultation.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

Treatment length varies depending on the type of treatment, the complexity of your case, and how well you follow your orthodontist’s instructions. Most comprehensive orthodontic treatments for teens and adults are completed within 12 to 24 months. Phase 1 childhood treatment may last 6 to 18 months. At your initial consultation at Camino Real Orthodontics, Dr. Hassey will provide a personalized timeline estimate based on your specific needs.

Does orthodontic treatment hurt?

It is normal to experience some mild soreness or pressure for a few days after braces are first placed or after adjustment appointments. This discomfort is temporary and typically resolves on its own. Over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods can help ease any discomfort during this adjustment period. Invisalign patients often report less discomfort overall due to the smooth, bracket-free design of the aligners. Our team at Camino Real Orthodontics will prepare you for what to expect at every stage of treatment.

How often will I need to come in for appointments?

Patients with traditional or clear braces typically visit our office every 4 to 8 weeks for adjustments and progress checks. Invisalign patients may visit slightly less frequently, depending on their treatment plan. Regular check-ins are important to ensure your treatment is progressing as planned. We make every effort to keep appointments efficient and convenient at both our Carlsbad and La Costa office locations.

Can adults get orthodontic treatment?

Absolutely. There is no age limit for orthodontic treatment, and more adults than ever are choosing to improve their smiles. Modern options like clear ceramic braces and Invisalign allow adults to straighten their teeth discreetly and comfortably without the look of traditional metal appliances. At Camino Real Orthodontics, we regularly treat adult patients and will create a treatment plan that fits your lifestyle and professional schedule.

What is Phase 1 orthodontic treatment?

Phase 1, also called interceptive orthodontic treatment, is early treatment typically recommended for children between the ages of 7 and 10. It focuses on guiding jaw development and correcting bite or spacing issues before they become more complex. Not every child needs Phase 1 treatment — Dr. Hassey will recommend it only when it offers a meaningful benefit. Many children who complete Phase 1 treatment still require a Phase 2 comprehensive treatment phase during their teen years, though it is often shorter and less involved as a result of the early work.

Will I need to wear a retainer after treatment?

Yes. Wearing a retainer after orthodontic treatment is an essential part of maintaining your results. Once your braces or aligners are removed, your teeth have a natural tendency to shift back toward their original positions — a process called relapse. Retainers help hold your teeth in place while the surrounding bone and tissue stabilize. Dr. Hassey will provide specific instructions on how often to wear your retainer and how to care for it to protect your smile long-term.

What foods should I avoid with braces?

Patients with traditional or clear braces should avoid hard, crunchy, chewy, or sticky foods that can damage brackets or bend wires. Foods to avoid include hard candies, popcorn, chewing gum, raw carrots, bagels, nuts, and anything that requires biting directly with the front teeth such as whole apples or corn on the cob. Invisalign patients have no food restrictions since aligners are removed before eating. Our team at Camino Real Orthodontics will provide a complete list of dietary guidelines when your treatment begins.

How do I care for my teeth during orthodontic treatment?

Good oral hygiene is especially important during orthodontic treatment. For braces patients, we recommend brushing after every meal with a soft-bristled toothbrush and using a floss threader or orthodontic flosser to clean between teeth and around brackets. Invisalign patients should brush and rinse their aligners daily and clean their teeth before reinserting them. Keeping up with regular dental cleanings throughout your orthodontic treatment is also important. Our team will review proper hygiene techniques with you at the start of treatment and at every visit.

Is Invisalign as effective as braces?

For many patients, Invisalign is just as effective as braces. It can successfully treat a wide range of alignment and bite issues, including crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites. However, very complex cases may still be better suited to traditional braces or clear braces, which allow for more precise control over tooth movement. Dr. Hassey will evaluate your specific case and provide an honest assessment of which treatment will deliver the best results for you.

What happens if I have a broken bracket or lost aligner?

If you break a bracket or have a wire issue with your braces, contact our office at (760) 434-2288 - Carlsbad Office or (760) 434-2288 - La Costa Office as soon as possible so we can schedule a repair appointment. In the meantime, if a wire is poking or causing irritation, orthodontic wax can help provide temporary relief. If you lose or damage an Invisalign aligner, contact us right away — we will advise whether to move on to your next set of aligners or order a replacement. Promptly addressing any issues helps keep your treatment on track.

Does Camino Real Orthodontics accept insurance for orthodontic treatment?

Many dental insurance plans include an orthodontic benefit that can help offset the cost of treatment. We encourage patients to contact their insurance provider before their consultation to understand their coverage. Our team at Camino Real Orthodontics is happy to assist with the insurance process and help you maximize your benefits. We also offer flexible payment plans and financing options to help make treatment affordable for every family, with or without insurance.

How much does orthodontic treatment cost?

The cost of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the type of treatment, the complexity of your case, and the length of your treatment plan. During your consultation at Camino Real Orthodontics, we will provide a clear, detailed breakdown of treatment costs and review all available payment and financing options with you. Our goal is to make exceptional orthodontic care accessible to every patient and family we serve.

Do you offer a free consultation?

Yes — we offer complimentary initial consultations for new patients at Camino Real Orthodontics. During your visit, Dr. Hassey will evaluate your bite and alignment, discuss your smile goals, and walk you through all available treatment options. There is no obligation, and it is the perfect first step toward achieving the smile you have always wanted. Call (760) 434-2288 - Carlsbad Office or (760) 434-2288 - La Costa Office or request your consultation online today.

How do I get started as a new patient at Camino Real Orthodontics?

Getting started is easy. Call our office at (760) 434-2288 - Carlsbad Office or (760) 434-2288 - La Costa Office or request a consultation online. You can also complete your new patient forms online before your first visit to save time. We welcome patients at our Carlsbad office at 3144 El Camino Real, Suite 205, and our La Costa office at 6994 El Camino Real, Suite 101. We look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve a healthier, more confident smile.