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What is the cost of braces in San Francisco?


October 4th, 2021

When finding out the cost of braces in San Francisco, it is essential to understand what orthodontic work entails. Braces are a common choice for many adults and families who want their kids’ teeth straightened. Why? Because braces can help to boost self-confidence and improve oral function.

The cost of braces in San Francisco can vary from patient to patient. The price will be higher if more work needs to be done on teeth and gums. Also, the price may vary depending on other factors, such as an open bite or overbite problems. This needs correction with jaw surgery before proceeding with treatment through traditional means, like metal wires and rubber bands. Insurance companies may cover some costs, but many patients are left with the last bill. Here are some common considerations:

  • The type and number of appliances worn (braces or other) – straightening or aligning teeth, hidden/invisible braces, etc.
  • Treatment time (how long it takes before you or your child gets their final retainer). This includes consultations with different specialists.
  • Additional procedures such as tooth extractions or root canals may need to be done for the teeth to move once braces are placed on them. Therefore, it’s essential to speak with your orthodontist about any pre-existing conditions before getting started to know what kind of treatment plan will work best for you.

Types of Braces

The main braces include clear or ceramic, lingual (behind teeth), self-ligating brackets, Invisalign aligners, and traditional metal wires with rubber bands. Each type has unique features based on preference during selection at the orthodontist’s office. For example, some people prefer not to have their mouths full when eating because it’s difficult to chew food while wearing them. It also depends on the orthodontist because they are the ones who know what is best for each individual.

The procedure of Getting Braces in San Francisco, CA

Once you have decided to get braces, your San Francisco Orthodontist will prescribe a treatment plan. This is usually done before any orthodontic treatments begin. But it could be done after seeing what types of problems exist and how they can be treated best. Sometimes, many appointments are necessary if over one issue exists. For example, overbite correction may need two or even three stages with different appliances and procedures. The length and number of visits required depend on each patient’s needs and specific health history. During these consultations, all questions are answered to know what to expect from their journey into healthier teeth & gums.

Step One: First Exam with Orthodontist

It’s important to schedule an appointment with your orthodontist right away. During this visit, an orthodontist will examine what needs improving. Then they will check if there are any underlying issues causing problems, such as overcrowding or crookedness, in need of correction beforehand. Ways in which this can be done include having braces on for several months or years with regular checkups before removing them.

Step Two: Braces Placement

After getting your orthodontist’s approval, you will get either metal brackets (the most common choice). Also, you can get clear plastic ones bonded onto the front of each tooth by an adhesive resin during placement treatment. At first, it is essential to avoid touching these areas since oils from fingers may prevent adhesives from sticking. Thus, resulting in breakage down the line when worn full-time! All that patients need to do at this stage is wear their retainer while sleeping every night after straightening out teeth for the first time.

Step Three: Adjustments and Retainers

After your braces are removed, the next step is putting on a retainer which helps make sure teeth stay where they should after treatment has ended! First, you will need to wait for all the swelling caused by having them taken off to go down before getting started with this stage. Most people return one or two times per week during retainers. While others only need monthly visits, it usually depends on how long their orthodontist wants them worn (six months up to three years). When everything checks out okay at follow-up appointments, patients can get rid of these appliances once and for all.

Step Four: Continue Brushing Teeth After Treatment

The last step would then entail brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing the same way you did before bracing. Don’t forget about visiting your local dentist in San Francisco for two checkups per year! If it has been a while since getting treatment, it is always best to get an exam so any problems can be addressed right away. Instead of waiting until something serious develops. That will ensure that all those pearly whites stay clean and healthy-looking no matter what age you are.

Foods to Avoid when having Braces:

  • Hard foods such as nuts, popcorn, and ice. Also, candy that might be too sticky should not be eaten when having braces.
  • Foods with seeds or pits like cherries and pineapple may damage the brackets and wires if chewed into pieces. These foods include apples and oranges, which can stick onto appliances for a long time, eventually irritating the back of the throat. It is best to cut these fruits in small sizes before eating them while wearing braces. If you want to chew on something crunchy, it’s better to choose carrots since they will cause less harm.
  • Fluids: The drinks that should be avoided are carbonated beverages or sodas. Why? Because they can increase your chances of getting cavities. Also, coffee, energy drinks, and other high acid levels of liquids should not be consumed frequently while having braces.

Conversely, never forget about water. It is an important source of hydration to maintain good health. Thus, it’s especially crucial when you have braces on, as it will avoid any damage caused by a dry mouth. This includes tooth decay or gum disease around the teeth. Additionally, staying well hydrated helps keep your breath fresh throughout the day.

Final Thought

There are several stages of getting braces in San Francisco, CA. What patients will need to do going forward depends on how long they wear them. They may mean going back every six months or a year during retainer treatment, for example. But this will depend on how much work needs to be done to align those pearly whites. Therefore, it’s important to schedule an appointment as soon as possible following the first exam with your local orthodontist. Also, take care of your teeth after the braces come off by brushing and flossing regularly. Remember, prices vary from person to person and depending on other factors, such as open bite issues.

Contact Camilo Riaño: Your San Francisco Orthodontist


77 Van Ness Ave #303
San Francisco, CA 94102

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