San Francisco and Marin CA
Are you thinking about orthodontic treatment to correct crooked teeth, bite problems, or other alignment issues—but feeling unsure about what’s involved? You’re not alone. Many people delay treatment because they don’t know what to expect. But orthodontic issues can worsen over time, so it’s important to seek care early.
At Glen Park Dental in San Francisco, we want to help you feel confident and informed at every step of your orthodontic journey. Here’s what you can expect.
Step One: Your Initial Evaluation
Every orthodontic treatment begins with a comprehensive exam. During this appointment, we’ll evaluate the alignment of your teeth and your bite.
Common concerns we may identify include:
- Spaced teeth can leave visible gaps in your smile and may trap plaque, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Crowded teeth often result from a mismatch between jaw size and tooth size, which can make your smile appear uneven and harder to clean.
- Midline problems occur when the center of your smile doesn’t align with your facial midline, making your smile look slightly off-balance.
- Bite issues can range from minor cosmetic concerns to more significant problems that affect chewing, speech, and jaw health.
Will You Need to See a Specialist?
At Glen Park Dental, we are equipped to treat many orthodontic cases directly in our San Francisco office. However, if your needs require more complex correction—such as severe bite issues—we may refer you to a trusted local orthodontic specialist to ensure the best results.
We believe in collaboration when it benefits your outcome. If seeing an orthodontist will provide a significantly better treatment experience or result, we’ll help you make that connection.
Types of Orthodontic Appliances: Fixed vs. Removable
Orthodontic treatment works by applying gentle, controlled force to move teeth into their ideal positions. There are two main types of appliances your dentist may recommend: fixed or removable.
Fixed Orthodontic Appliances
These devices are attached to your teeth and apply continuous force over time. They are ideal for cases that require more precision or when patients may not consistently follow at-home care instructions.
Common fixed options include:
- Braces – Traditional brackets and wires that gradually shift teeth
- Fixed spacers – Used to maintain space after early tooth loss
- Permanent retainers – Help maintain alignment after treatment
Removable Orthodontic Appliances
Removable appliances give you the flexibility to take them out for eating, cleaning, or special occasions—but require a commitment to wearing them as instructed for the best results.
Common removable options include:
- Clear aligners (like Invisalign or ClearCorrect) – A nearly invisible way to straighten teeth using a custom series of trays
- Removable retainers – Help preserve your results after treatment is complete
Your Role in a Successful Outcome
Orthodontics is a well-established and highly effective area of dentistry—but your cooperation is key to success.
For fixed appliances, your main responsibilities are keeping up with oral hygiene and avoiding foods that could damage the braces.
For removable appliances, like clear aligners, you’ll need to wear them for the recommended 20–22 hours per day and care for them properly.
In both cases, attending all scheduled appointments and following your personalized care plan will help ensure you achieve the results you want—on time and without complications.
Ready to Start Your Smile Transformation?
At Glen Park Dental, we’re here to make your orthodontic journey smooth, comfortable, and rewarding. Whether you’re considering braces, clear aligners, or want to explore your options, our friendly San Francisco dental team is here to guide you every step of the way.
📞 Call us today at (415) 799-3900 to schedule your orthodontic consultation.
Let’s work together to create the healthy, confident smile you deserve.
