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31 verified Orthodontists in San Jose, CA
Zocdoc verifies all providers before they can appear in Zocdoc search results. Every provider that appears in search is open to new patients.
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Availability last updated 04/04/2026
Availability last updated 04/04/2026
Orthodontist
6 mi · 142 Ranch Dr, Milpitas, CA 95035
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Ammari is a patient-centered orthodontist who focuses on improving smiles, confidence, and overall oral health. She earned her D.D.S. from UC San Francisco School of Dentistry, and completed her Orthodontic Certificate (MDSc) at the University of Connecticut Health Center. She specializes in In...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Apr 9
Orthodontist
4.93
·44 reviews
Best staff ever! Treated you like family. Dr. Touni was so polite. - Dec 23, 2016Click to read more
8 mi · 333 West Maude Ave, #210, Sunnyvale, CA 94085
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Delta Dental + 3 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Touni grew up in Cairo, Egypt. He completed his science education at Cairo University, where he received his Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree, graduating with honors. He further continued his training at the same university, completing a residency in General Dentistry for one year, followed by ...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 7
Orthodontist
4.97
·33 reviews
8 mi · 1639 Hollenbeck Ave, Sunnyvale, CA 94087
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 33 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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Dr. Li says, “Your Orthodontic care is my passion! I love working with my patients to help them to achieve a beautiful and healthy smile.” His goal is to work with patients to help them achieve and maintain life-long oral health while providing comprehensive and up to date dental care. He wants eve...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Apr 13
Orthodontist
4.83
·6 reviews
Dr Nguyen is extremely friendly and professional. great experience. by RBClick to read more
8 mi · 20445 Prospect Rd, Ste 6, San Jose, CA 95129
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Bao Khanh Nguyen DDS, MSD grew up in San Jose. She received her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 2004 and Master of Science in Orthodontics in 2006 from the University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni, School of Dentistry. In dental school, she tutored Dental anatomy carvings and Fixed Prosth...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Apr 24
Orthodontist
5.00
·1 review
14 mi · 3900 Newpark Mall Rd, Ste 204, Newark, CA 94560
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 7 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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We do not charge your insurance until we see you for the first time and you agree on to start treatment with us. I have a combined experience orthodontics and Surgery. I specialize in treating patient with Fixed orthodontics and Invisalign and other aligner therapies. I work on Children and adults ...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 7
Orthodontist
4.77
·64 reviews
He was amazing, personable and genuine. I didn't appreciate how good he was until I moved out of San Francisco.Click to read more
41.5 mi · 77 Van Ness Ave, #303, San Francisco, CA 94102
Accepts Guardian
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time ·
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After a few years of private practice in Orthodontics in Colombia and teaching at the Javeriana University, Dr. Riaño moved to San Francisco, California to continue further studies at the University of the Pacific. Since 2009, he has been gearing his private practice towards aesthetic orthodontics b...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Apr 6
Orthodontist
4.90
·20 reviews
Great work & very friendly. by PBClick to read more
44.5 mi · 591 San Pablo Ave, Albany, CA 94706
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Welcome! I am Dr. Nourah, and I am proud to be part of the Asana Ortho team. My mission is to provide compassionate, evidence-based orthodontic care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Our office is themed around wellness. "Asana" is a term used in yoga for calming and strengthening postures th...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Apr 6
Orthodontist
46 mi · 2734 Delta Fair Blvd, Antioch, CA 94509
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 7 more
Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Abolfazlian grew up in the East Bay Area. He attended California State University, San Luis Obispo. His professional training began at University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco where he earned his Doctorate in Dental Surgery. His training continued at the Un...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Apr 8
Orthodontist
4.67
·18 reviews
The office was bright and cheerful. What a fun place to visit! by SKClick to read more
71.5 mi · 3449 Valle Verde Dr., Suite A, Napa, CA 94558
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 10 more
Accepting new patients ·
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About Dr. Jordan Lamberton: Dr. Jordan, the owner and award-winning orthodontist at Hello Ortho in Napa and Petaluma, California, was born and raised locally in Napa and is a third-generation dentist. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of the Pacific and completed his Master'...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Apr 9
Orthodontist
41.5 mi · 3150 Balfour Rd, Ste C, Brentwood, CA 94513
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Vanessa "Jenee" Kaplan, DDS, MS Orthodontist | Clinical Leader | Patient-Centered Care Advocate Dr. Vanessa "Jenee" Kaplan is a board-certified orthodontist with over a decade of experience delivering exceptional orthodontic care, practice leadership, and community engagement. A California nati...Click to read more
Orthodontist (Virtual)
Markleeville, CA
Accepts Aetna, Delta Dental, Metlife
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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TREATING EVERYONE LIKE FAMILY “We wait for your caravan every year, you know, it is the only dental care we get here. I feel so much younger, thanks to you, doctor,” was the gratitude I received from a village woman as she hugged me. That first day, while volunteering for the Medical Therapeutic ...Click to read more
Orthodontist (Virtual)
Markleeville, CA
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Growing up in Pasadena, Dr. Lee continued her education at the University of California, Los Angeles, where she earned a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree along with a Master of Science in Oral Biology. She was the only graduate in her class to receive this dual degree during her dental education. Dr....Click to read more
Orthodontist (Virtual)
4.45
·67 reviews
Toluca Lake, CA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Delta Dental + 8 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Madan has been setting the highest standards of excellence in orthodontics since 2003. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the University of Southern California School of Dentistry before finishing a specialized orthodontic residency program at the University of Washington....Click to read more
Orthodontist (Virtual)
5.00
·9 reviews
Very friendly staff, felt very welcomed and everything was explained up front by Daniel N.Click to read more
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 7 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I am a board-certified orthodontist passionate about quality, patient-centered orthodontic care. I earned my Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of the Pacific and completed my residency in Orthodontics at the University of Southern California. I am creating an office where you can feel com...Click to read more
Orthodontist
2.5 mi · 2025 Forest Ave, Ste 3, San Jose, CA 95128
Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Megan Constant is an orthodontist. She practices at Bay Area Dental & Implant Center in San Jose, CA.? She earned her dental degree from the University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, and completed her residency in orthodontics at the Georgia School of Orthodontics. Dr. Co...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Apr 6
Orthodontist
5 mi · 4585 Stevens Creek Blvd, Ste 101, Santa Clara, CA 95051
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Karina Lee is a board-certified orthodontist known for her clinical precision and compassionate approach to patient care. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the University of California, San Francisco, and completed her specialty training in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedi...Click to read more
Orthodontist
5 mi · 4585 Stevens Creek Blvd, Ste 101, Santa Clara, CA 95051
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Chiu's early years were spent under the sunny skies and among the saguaro-filled mountains of Tucson, Arizona. Her journey in dentistry began at the University of California, San Francisco, where she earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. Her passion for orthodontics led her to New York Uni...Click to read more
Orthodontist
37 mi · 2400 Westborough Blvd, Ste 208, South San Francisco, CA 94080
Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Benson Wong has been in private practice since 1995 in San Francisco and the peninsula. He is passionate about delivering comprehensive oral care in a caring, personal environment. Dr. Wong completed his dental education at UCSF in 1993 then obtained his orthodontic specialty training at NYU fin...Click to read more
Orthodontist
37 mi · 2400 Westborough Blvd, Ste 208, South San Francisco, CA 94080
Accepting new patients ·
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Gracia B. Cua, DMD, MScD earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine from Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine. She also earned her Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study and her Master of Science in Dentistry in Pediatric Dentistry. She was an instructor at Harvard School of Medicine and Bo...Click to read more
Orthodontist
5.00
·1 review
42 mi · 450 Sutter St, Ste 1519, San Francisco, CA 94108
Accepts Cigna, Delta Dental, Guardian + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Sunny J. Lee, brings in passion for esthetics and evolving technology in the field of orthodontics. She truly believes that bringing the modern philosophies such as airway and sleep evaluation in Phase I orthodontics, usage of TADs and 2D/3D imaging, and TMJ evaluation will deliver the most bene...Click to read more
Orthodontist
42 mi · 490 Post St, Ste 1124, San Francisco, CA 94102
Accepting new patients ·
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Yan Kalika, DMD, MS is a certified specialist in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. He is an active member of the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association, the American Association of Orthodontics, the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontics and the San Francisco Dental So...Click to read more
Other providers
Availability last updated 04/04/2026
Availability last updated 04/04/2026
Orthodontist
7941.5 mi · 1660 Willow St, 5, San Jose, CA 95125
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Esther Moon, DDS is a Orthodontist in San Jose, CA. Their office is located in 1660 Willow St 5, San Jose, CA.Click to read more
Orthodontist
7941.5 mi · 1095 E Brokaw Rd, 40, San Jose, CA 95131
Accepting new patients ·
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Karina Lee, DDS is a Orthodontist in San Jose, CA and San Francisco, CA. Their offices are located in 1095 E Brokaw Rd 40, San Jose, CA and 1500 Judah St 8, San Francisco, CA.Click to read more
Orthodontist
7941.5 mi · 1087 Quail Creek Cir, San Jose, CA 95120
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Guneet Kainth, DDSMBA is a Orthodontist in San Jose, CA. Their office is located in 1087 Quail Creek Cir, San Jose, CA.Click to read more
Orthodontist
7941.5 mi · 1865 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA 94306
Accepting new patients ·
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Eric Wu, DDS is a Orthodontist in Palo Alto, CA. Their office is located in 1865 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA.Click to read more
Orthodontist
7941.5 mi · 905 Middlefield Rd, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Accepting new patients ·
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Susan Ko, DMD is a Orthodontist in Palo Alto, CA. Their office is located in 905 Middlefield Rd, Palo Alto, CA.Click to read more
Orthodontist
7941.5 mi · 6851 Amador Plaza Rd, Dublin, CA 94568
Accepting new patients ·
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Anne Yoon, DDS is a Orthodontist in Dublin, CA. Their office is located in 6851 Amador Plaza Rd, Dublin, CA.Click to read more
Orthodontist
7941.5 mi · 4532 Dublin Blvd, Dublin, CA 94568
Accepting new patients ·
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Dante Gonzales, DDS is a Orthodontist in San Leandro, CA and Dublin, CA. Their offices are located in 532 Joaquin Ave, San Leandro, CA and 4532 Dublin Blvd, Dublin, CA.Click to read more
Orthodontist
7941.5 mi · 4375 1st St, Livermore, CA 94551
Accepting new patients ·
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Jesse Punch, DMDMSD is a Orthodontist in Livermore, CA. Their office is located in 4375 1st St, Livermore, CA.Click to read more
Orthodontist
7941.5 mi · 3880 Blackhawk Rd, Danville, CA 94506
Accepting new patients ·
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Michael Ricupito, DDS is a Orthodontist in Danville, CA and Fremont, CA. Their offices are located in 3880 Blackhawk Rd, Danville, CA and 39572 Stevenson Pl 230, Fremont, CA.Click to read more
Orthodontist
7941.5 mi · 3405 International Blvd, Oakland, CA 94601
Accepting new patients ·
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Mengting Zhang, DMD is a Orthodontist in Foster City, CA and Oakland, CA. Their offices are located in 810 Balboa Ln, Foster City, CA and 3405 International Blvd, Oakland, CA.Click to read more
Orthodontist
7941.5 mi · 2341 Toyon Way, San Bruno, CA 94066
Accepting new patients ·
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Kevin Lee, DDS is a Orthodontist in San Bruno, CA. Their office is located in 2341 Toyon Way, San Bruno, CA.Click to read more
Orthodontist
7941.5 mi · 707 Parnassus Ave, 3, San Francisco, CA 94143
Accepting new patients ·
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Maria Orellana, DDSMSCPHD is a Orthodontist in San Francisco, CA. Their office is located in 707 Parnassus Ave 3, San Francisco, CA.Click to read more
Orthodontist
7941.5 mi · 707 Parnassus Ave, D-3030, San Francisco, CA 94143
Accepting new patients ·
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Emerald Nguyen, DDM is a Orthodontist in San Francisco, CA. Their office is located in 707 Parnassus Ave D-3030, San Francisco, CA.Click to read more
Orthodontist
7941.5 mi · 1183 Solano Ave, Albany, CA 94706
Accepting new patients ·
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Ramtin Nassiri, DDS is a Orthodontist in Albany, CA. Their offices are located in 1498 Solano Ave, Albany, CA and 1183 Solano Ave, Albany, CA.Click to read more
Orthodontist
7941.5 mi · 2734 Delta Fair Blvd, Antioch, CA 94509
Accepting new patients ·
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Kristi Wagner, DDS is a Orthodontist in Antioch, CA. Their office is located in 2734 Delta Fair Blvd, Antioch, CA.Click to read more
Orthodontist
7941.5 mi · 2120 Railroad Ave, Pittsburg, CA 94565
Accepting new patients ·
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Doyon Chung, DDM is a Orthodontist in Pittsburg, CA. Their office is located in 2120 Railroad Ave, Pittsburg, CA.Click to read more
Orthodontist
7941.5 mi · 4111 Alhambra Ave, Martinez, CA 94553
Accepting new patients ·
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Stacy Silva, DDS is a Orthodontist in Martinez, CA. Their office is located in 4111 Alhambra Ave, Martinez, CA.Click to read more
Orthodontist
7941.5 mi · 201 E Orangeburg Ave, Modesto, CA 95350
Accepting new patients ·
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Matthew Swatman, DDS is a Orthodontist in Modesto, CA. Their offices are located in 400 E Orangeburg Ave 3, Modesto, CA and 201 E Orangeburg Ave, Modesto, CA.Click to read more
Orthodontist
7941.5 mi · 10928 Trinity Pkwy, Stockton, CA 95219
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Christopher Beninati, INTERN is a Orthodontist in Brentwood, CA and Stockton, CA. Their offices are located in 2280 Reserve Dr, Brentwood, CA and 10928 Trinity Pkwy, Stockton, CA.Click to read more
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Frequently asked questions

How can I make a same-day appointment with an Orthodontist in San Jose?

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for an Orthodontist in San Jose, book an appointment, and see the Orthodontist within 24 hours. Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of Orthodontists in San Jose who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


How can I find a San Jose Orthodontist who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a San Jose Orthodontist who takes your insurance. Just choose your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. If you’re not sure which plan you have, you can use Zocdoc’s insurance checker to find out.


How can I book an appointment online with an Orthodontist in San Jose?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Orthodontists in San Jose and book appointments instantly. You can search for San Jose Orthodontists by symptom or visit reason. Then, choose your insurance plan. Based on that information, you’ll see a list of providers who meet your search criteria, along with their available appointment slots.


How can I find a female Orthodontist in San Jose?

When you search for San Jose Orthodontists on Zocdoc, you can filter your results by gender, in addition to other criteria. That way, you’ll only see Orthodontists in San Jose who match your preferences.


How can I find a San Jose Orthodontist who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for San Jose Orthodontists with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Orthodontist in San Jose?

You can use Zocdoc to find Orthodontists in San Jose who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, they’re invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdoc’s guidelines.


How can I find a video visit with an Orthodontist online in San Jose?

Orthodontists in San Jose on Zocdoc who see patients through online video visits will have a purple video icon on their profiles. You can also filter your search results to show only Orthodontists who offer video visits.


Are video visits with an Orthodontist online covered by my insurance?

Most insurers provide coverage for video visits at the same cost as in-person visits. You can search on Zocdoc specifically for Orthodontists in San Jose who accept your insurance for video visits by selecting your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. We recommend you check with your insurance carrier directly to confirm your coverage and out of pocket costs for video visits.


How can I find an Orthodontist in San Jose who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for an Orthodontist who has appointments available before 10:00 am, or after 5:00 pm. Just choose the special hours filter at the top of our search page.


How can I find an Orthodontist in San Jose who sees patients during the weekend?

Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for Orthodontists in San Jose. Many Orthodontists offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.


What is orthodontics?

According to a report by the American Association of Orthodontics, nearly half of the world's developed population requires orthodontic treatment for various reasons, but what is orthodontics?


Orthodontics is one of the specialties in the field of dentistry. Orthodontics deals with the study of structural issues like malpositioned teeth and jaws or misaligned bite patterns. The specialty also focuses on addressing the modification of facial growth, known as dentofacial orthopedics. Orthodontics is a form of cosmetic dentistry. It also helps people deal with various other painful dental health disorders. 


Who is an orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a dental care provider specializing in dentistry, particularly structural challenges you may experience with your jaws or teeth. In addition to having a degree in dentistry, they will also have specialized training in dealing with structural issues or irregularities surrounding body parts like the mouth, gums, jaws, teeth, and nerves.

 

An orthodontist treats underbites, crossbites, overbites, crooked teeth, and overcrowded mouths. When structural irregularities in the jaw or teeth are left untreated, they can cause displeasing aesthetic issues and inconvenience with basic tasks like chewing food or talking.

 

Education and training for orthodontics 

To practice as an orthodontist in the United States, one must earn a graduate degree with a DMD (Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry) or DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) from an accredited University. Several colleges in the United States offer orthodontic programs and courses. The enrollment process begins by passing the national or state-level license exam.

 

A two- or three-year specialization in orthodontics follows DMD or DDS. In the final year, graduates complete a two-stage written and clinical examination conducted by the American Board of Orthodontics. The clinical exam is the most challenging, where graduates must prove their expertise on various application-based topics. Once they clear the exam, they can practice as orthodontists; however, orthodontists must renew their licenses every ten years.


Dentist vs. Orthodontist

Dentists and orthodontists specialize in oral health, but their focus and training differ significantly. After obtaining a pre-dentistry or pre-medical degree, dentists practice general dentistry, treating various oral health conditions. They perform X-rays, cavity fillings, extractions, and oral health promotion. 


Both dentists and orthodontists undergo rigorous education, including dental school and residency. Dentists complete a comprehensive exam and the National Dental Examination for licensure, while orthodontists undergo additional training and certification.


Whether to see a dentist or an orthodontist depends on your specific needs. Dentists function as general practitioners, handling common dental issues. A dentist is suitable for tooth-related concerns, gum diseases, or infections. 


While insurance may cover dental care, orthodontic treatments may have separate considerations. Some insurers mandate a dentist's referral for orthodontic coverage. Understanding these distinctions ensures you make informed decisions about your oral health.


What causes orthodontic problems?

Malocclusions or orthodontic problems are usually inherited, but some cases can also be due to acquired problems. A person's genetic makeup determines the structure of jaws and teeth; however, misalignment of these body parts can also occur due to accidents or specific behaviors that disrupt structural formations in the mouth and jaw.

 

Acquired structural irregularities are primarily due to reasons like physical trauma such as accidents or fist fights, addiction to a particular behavior like sucking of thumb, fingers, or pacifiers, obstruction of tonsils, premature loss of milk teeth, problems in the development of permanent teeth, obstruction by adenoids, etc.

 

When should children get an orthodontic checkup?

Orthodontic issues can start showing as early as childhood, and treatment must be received in the early stages. Children quickly develop, and their bodies change and grow. Early monitoring of the growth and development of body structures such as the jaws or teeth can be very beneficial.

 

Regular appointments with an orthodontist near you are essential for children. Early detection of any possible orthodontic issues can help them receive treatment in the initial stages, which means they might not have to suffer later in life. The American Association of Orthodontists asserts that children undergo an orthodontic checkup before seven.


Importance of orthodontic treatment

In addition to providing cosmetic solutions for aesthetic facial looks, orthodontic treatment also offers solutions to various other dental issues. People with crooked or crowded teeth often have difficulty maintaining oral hygiene, as cleaning and maintaining their teeth can be very difficult due to the irregular spacing between teeth. In addition, one might find it extremely hard and painful to chew food properly.

 

Receiving proper orthodontic treatment can align crooked or crowded teeth into the desired position, which will make cleaning easier and help chew food the right way. Another major issue orthodontics deals with is the proper alignment of jaws. When left untreated, misalignment of the jaws can cause chronic issues like constant pain in the jaw joints, chronic headaches, facial pain, etc.

 

Tips for maintaining dental health after braces

After completing your orthodontic treatment with braces, it's essential to maintain your beautiful smile and keep your teeth in proper alignment. Here are a few ways to care for your teeth once you've completed your braces treatment.


Firstly, schedule a proper dental exam with your orthodontist or dentist. Even with good dental hygiene practices during brace treatment, stains and plaque can still accumulate on the teeth and gums. A thorough dental cleaning will remove buildup and detect underlying dental issues such as cavities.

 

It's also crucial to maintain optimum dental hygiene even after braces are placed. Brush your teeth twice daily and floss thoroughly at least once daily.


Wearing retainers is often recommended after braces placement to keep teeth in their new positions. It's essential to wear your retainers as instructed by your orthodontist to maintain a healthy smile.

 

Lastly, cleaning your retainers is essential to avoid bacteria and plaque buildup on your teeth. To prevent gum diseases or tooth decay, it's necessary to carefully follow the instructions given by your orthodontist for cleaning your retainer. By following these instructions, you can maintain a healthy, beautiful smile after braces treatment.

 

What kinds of treatment do orthodontists offer besides braces?

Besides braces, examples of treatment provided by orthodontists include:

  1. Clear aligners: Brands like Invisalign® and ClearCorrect® use custom-made, clear trays instead of braces. You wear these trays for one to two weeks, gradually shifting your teeth.

  2. Retainers: Essential after braces or aligners, retainers maintain your teeth's new positions. Your orthodontist guides you on how often to wear them.

  3. Palate expanders widen the upper jaw without extractions and are recommended for children. They leverage a child's developing facial bones for effective results. Not all children need them, but they offer space without additional procedures.


What should you eat and avoid eating after orthodontic treatment?

An orthodontist recommends braces, one of the most popular orthodontic treatments used to align or straighten teeth and correct gaps, overbites, underbites, and other dental issues. When wearing braces, it is important to avoid some foods that could damage the braces or become stuck in them. Additionally, the mouth may be sensitive for a few days after an orthodontic appointment, so eating foods with a rigid texture could cause discomfort.


Orthodontists recommend sticking to soft foods for the first few days after getting braces. These include scrambled eggs, soup, pasta, yogurt, mashed potatoes, oatmeal, soft cheeses, cooked or soft vegetables, and grains. Avoid ice cream, thick bread or rolls, citrus, and spicy foods. It is also best to refrain from crunchy foods, including raw fruits and vegetables, popcorn, chips, pizza crust, and chewy or hard candies. Limiting sweet foods is also advised while wearing braces.


Aligners are another orthodontic treatment used to straighten crooked teeth. Dietary changes are usually unnecessary with aligners, as you can remove them when eating to enjoy your favorite foods. However, if you wear a fixed retainer, you should avoid hard foods like nuts, ice, and popcorn. Additionally, avoid eating anything that might get stuck between your teeth and the retainer or that could crack the retainer.


Signs you need to visit an orthodontist near you

Symptoms of dental conditions are often easy to detect as they directly impact the appearance of the face and activities such as chewing, swallowing, and speech. You must book an appointment with an orthodontist if you: 

  1. Have malocclusion, or if your teeth are misaligned.
  2. Are not able to close your mouth properly due to conditions like overbite or underbite.
  3. Are not able to chew food properly due to crooked or crowded teeth.
  4. Have protruding teeth.
  5. Notice that your upper set of teeth does not correctly align with the lower set of teeth.
  6. Have the urge to grind or clench your teeth constantly.
  7. Are experiencing facial imbalance or asymmetry.
  8. Are finding it challenging to talk due to structural irregularities.


Is there anything you need to remember before availing of orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment has some downsides. The main one is that it takes time, and you must follow the rules. For some, it's quick (less than a year); for others, it's longer (up to two years or more). Everyone is different. Talk to your orthodontist to know what's ahead.


Another thing to watch out for is cavities. Cavities might happen if you don't clean well around your braces or other orthodontic stuff. Therefore, follow the guidelines your orthodontist offers about keeping your mouth clean.

 

What to expect on your first visit with an orthodontist?

When you visit an orthodontist near you, they will perform an in-depth evaluation to assess the alignment of your teeth and determine the best course of treatment. During your initial consultation, they will conduct an oral exam, take photographs of your face and smile, and take dental and panoramic X-rays of your face and head. They may also take impressions of your teeth to create molds.

 

These tests will provide the orthodontist with the necessary information to plan your treatment and determine the most suitable orthodontic interventions for your needs. They will prepare a personalized treatment plan and discuss the recommended interventions with you.

  

Attending all follow-up appointments and adhering to the treatment plan are necessary for achieving the best results. Regular dental checkups at an orthodontist will ensure your teeth and gums will always be in good health and that your smile remains beautiful. Following these steps, you can expect a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan from your orthodontist.


Finding top-rated orthodontists near you in San Jose, California

Most orthodontic procedures take time before patients can start seeing results, meaning you may have to visit your orthodontist periodically throughout the treatment. In such a case, finding a top-rated orthodontist is crucial. So why look elsewhere when you can search for the right provider from your home?


Zocdoc is an online platform that aims to connect patients with the right providers. Our easy-to-use website and app allow users to enter their search criteria based on their area, specialty, insurance carrier, and preferred appointment date. If you can't find your medical insurance plan on Zocdoc, upload a photo of your insurance card. Zocdoc will automatically scan the image and display your plan. This feature isn't available for dental or vision insurance cards. If you face any issues while uploading the photo, don't hesitate to contact Zocdoc's service team for assistance. Additionally, you can check out Zocdoc's patient help center for answers to any further insurance-related queries.


Zocdoc filters its elaborate database to curate a list of providers that match your search. You can also check providers' credibility and patient ratings on their profiles. Their profiles also include detailed information about their expertise, licensure, board certifications, qualifications, and spoken languages. You can also find out their gender and whether they treat children.


Depending on the orthodontist's availability, you can book appointments before, during, and after regular work hours. If the orthodontist's schedule permits, you can also book appointments on weekends and holidays.


Finding a top-rated orthodontist has always been challenging. With Zocdoc, you can make an informed decision. Booking appointments with orthodontists near you through Zocdoc is simple, quick, and cost-free!


Dental Statistics in California

According to a 2023 report by Statista, California houses approximately 30,280 dental care providers. A U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report stated that as of May 2023, 1,060 orthodontists were actively practicing in California, the highest in the whole U.S.


According to a 2020 report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 64.6% of adults over 18 visited a dentist or a dental clinic for treatment.


According to the 2019 California Third Grade Smile Survey published by the California Department of Public Health, 61% of third graders in the state had dental caries, 22% had untreated decay, and 37% had received dental sealants. 


Sources

Statista

123 DENTIST

Lasry Dental Clinic

WebMD

Healthline[1]

Healthline[2] 

Fredericksburg Orthodontics

Cleveland Clinic

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

California Department of Public Health

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.