Orthodontics FAQ | Common Questions

General Questions

Do I need a referral from my dentist to see an orthodontist?

Nope! You're welcome to schedule directly with us. That said, we love working alongside your dentist to make sure your whole care team is on the same page.

How do I schedule a consultation at Ellie Orthodontics?

We'd love to meet you! You can give us a call at (949) 388-8006 or send us an email at hello@ellieortho.com. Our team will help you find a time that works best for your schedule at either our San Clemente or Rancho Mission Viejo location.

What age is best to start orthodontic treatment?

There's no one-size-fits-all answer. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends kids have their first orthodontic check-up around age 7, but we happily treat patients of all ages—from kids to teens to adults. It's never too late to invest in a smile you love.

What happens during my first visit?

Your first visit is all about getting to know you and your smile goals. We'll take some photos and X-rays, do a thorough exam, and then sit down together to talk through your options. There's no pressure—just a friendly conversation about what's possible and what feels right for you.

Insurance & Payment

Is orthodontic treatment covered by insurance?

Many insurance plans include orthodontic benefits, though coverage varies. We're happy to check your specific plan and explain exactly what's covered before you start treatment.

What payment options do you offer?

We believe everyone deserves a smile they love, so we offer flexible payment plans to fit your budget. We'll go over all your options during your consultation—no surprises, just straightforward information.

Do you accept dental insurance?

Yes! We work with most major dental and orthodontic insurance plans. Our team will help verify your benefits and maximize your coverage so you can focus on your smile, not the paperwork.

Life During Treatment

How do I keep my teeth clean with braces?

Great question! We'll teach you all the tricks—special brushing techniques, floss threaders, and maybe a water flosser if you're feeling fancy. Keeping your teeth clean during treatment helps ensure your smile looks amazing when those braces come off.

Does getting braces hurt?

Honestly? There's an adjustment period. Your teeth might feel a bit sore for a few days after getting braces or after adjustments, but it's totally manageable. Most patients say it's much easier than they expected.

Will braces or aligners affect my daily activities?

You can absolutely keep doing what you love—sports, music, work presentations, all of it. We'll give you tips (like wearing a mouthguard for contact sports) to keep your smile safe and your life running smoothly.

Can I still eat my favorite foods with braces?

Mostly yes! We'll give you a short list of foods to avoid (think: sticky candies, super hard items, and popcorn kernels), but you'll still enjoy plenty of delicious meals. With clear aligners, you simply remove them when you eat, so nothing is off-limits.

Office & Appointments

Where are you located?

We have two convenient locations in South Orange County: one in San Clemente (903 Calle Amanecer, Ste 110) and one in Rancho Mission Viejo (28242 Airoso Street). Both are easy to get to and designed to make you feel right at home.

What if I have an orthodontic emergency?

Don't worry, we're here for you. Give us a call at (949) 388-8006 and we'll help you figure out the next steps. Most issues (like a poking wire or loose bracket) are easy to manage until we can see you.

How often will I need appointments during treatment?

Most patients come in every 6 to 10 weeks so we can check progress and make any adjustments. Appointments are usually quick—we know you have places to be!

What are your office hours?

We're open Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm at both locations. We do our best to accommodate busy schedules, so let us know what works for you.

Retainers & Long-Term Care

How often do I need to wear my retainer?

Right after treatment, you'll wear it full-time for a period we'll discuss together. Over time, most patients transition to nighttime wear only. The key is consistency—your retainer is your smile's best friend.

Why do I need to wear a retainer after treatment?

Your teeth have a memory and love to shift back toward their original positions (sneaky, right?). Wearing your retainer as directed keeps everything in place so all your hard work pays off for years to come.

What is the Retainers for Life program?

We're so proud of this one! Our Retainers for Life Guarantee through our Retainer Insurance Program means we've got your back long after your braces or aligners come off. Because let's be honest—your beautiful new smile deserves to last forever.

Treatment Options

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

Treatment time varies depending on what we're correcting, but most patients are in treatment for 12 to 24 months. We'll give you a more personalized timeline during your consultation so you know what to expect.

What are ceramic braces?

Ceramic braces work just like traditional braces, but the brackets are made from a tooth-colored material that blends in with your smile. They're a popular choice for patients who want the reliability of braces with a subtler look.

What's the difference between clear aligners and braces?

Both are fantastic options for straightening teeth. Clear aligners (like Invisalign) are removable, nearly invisible trays that you switch out every week or two. Traditional braces use brackets and wires that stay on your teeth throughout treatment. During your consultation, we'll help you figure out which option fits your lifestyle and treatment needs.

Are clear aligners right for me?

Clear aligners work beautifully for many patients, but they're not ideal for every situation. If you're looking for a more discreet option and can commit to wearing them 20-22 hours a day, they might be a great fit. We'll give you an honest recommendation based on your unique smile.