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FAQS

Got questions? We’ve got answers.


General


  • What should I expect at my free consultation with Dr. Montano?

    At your free consultation, Dr. Montano will explain the entire braces process from start to finish, along with the cost of braces or invisalign.

  • What areas does Montano Elevated Orthodontics serve?

    Montano Elevated Ortho serves Bakersfield, Delano, Tehachapi, Taft, Shafter, Wasco, Arvin, Lamont, and other surrounding communities.

  • Why has Montano Elevated Orthodontics been voted Best Orthodontist in the Bakersfield Californian’s Readers’ Choice Poll for six years running?

    Montano Elevated Orthodo has a long-standing reputation for “Creating Bakersfield’s Most Beautiful Smiles.” The experience and results patients receive at Montano Elevated Ortho is second to none. The treatment process is tailored to each patient’s individual needs, with the goal of providing a treatment process that is as comfortable as possible, resulting in a beautiful, confident new smile that harmonizes with the rest of your unique facial features.

  • Why is it important to evaluate a child's teeth at age 7 for possible orthodontic treatment?

    It is important to evaluate a child's teeth at age 7 because the permanent first molars and incisors have usually erupted by this time and the child can be evaluated for any overbites, cross bites, or crowding that may be present. By seeing them this young, an orthodontist can determine if early orthopedic intervention is needed to guide the growth of the jaws which may prevent serious problems that could require jaw surgery if treated at a later age.

  • What are some advantages of early orthodontic treatment for children?

    Some advantages of early orthodontic treatment for children include reducing treatment time, increasing self-esteem early, shortening/improving the second phase of treatment, possibly eliminating the need for future jaw surgery, avoiding permanent tooth extraction, correcting abnormal speech or swallowing problems, resolving airway issues, and alleviating thumb sucking habits.


Braces


  • How do braces work?

    Braces move and align teeth over time by applying force and pressure with a series of brackets, wires, and elastics.

  • What are some of the advantages of seeking early orthodontic treatment?

    Reducing treatment time, alleviating thumb sucking habits, the possibility of avoiding jaw surgery or permanent tooth extraction, and preventing more serious health problems down the line that might require surgery.

  • Why do some adults pursue orthodontic treatment with braces?

    For improved smile aesthetics, improving overall oral health, eliminating uneven wear on teeth, reducing symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), reducing or stopping breakdown or loss of teeth and bone that supports the teeth.

  • What types of braces are available?

    There are many different types of braces available, including metal braces, ceramic braces & clear braces.

  • What are metal braces?

    Metal braces are the most common type of braces made of high-grade stainless steel and allow for exceptional precision and accuracy in straightening teeth. They come with the option of adding elastic ligatures (“donuts”) to hold the archwires in place in single or multi-colors.

  • What are ceramic braces?

    Unlike traditional ceramic brackets that are opaque and colored to mimic a particular tooth shade, Inspire Ice braces are crystal clear and virtually disappear regardless of the shade of your teeth. They are the lowest profile ceramic brace on the market and are manufactured with an innovative boron tumbling process that provides a smooth surface to enhance patient comfort.

  • When should a child interested in braces see an orthodontist?

    The American Association of Orthodontists recommends having your first orthodontist appointment at the age of seven to discover and treat potential issues before they become a larger problem in the future.


  • What are the benefits of braces for teens?

    Braces for teens can correct bite issues, eliminate crowding or spacing of teeth, promote the long-term health of teeth and gums, transform the look of gummy smiles, properly align protruding “buck” teeth, and alleviate breathing and other airway problems.

  • Why are braces recommended for teenagers?

    Having braces as a teenager means you’ll be undergoing orthodontic treatment during a natural period of extensive physical growth. During this important time, your orthodontist can use your braces to help guide your facial development, resulting in a natural, ideal smile that takes into account the shape and structure of your face. Positive self-esteem is crucial during teenage years, and a winning smile that is properly aligned will give any teen the confidence they need as they grow into productive young men and women.


Invisalign


  • What is Invisalign?

    Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear and removable aligners to straighten teeth.

  • Why would I want Invisalign?

    Invisalign aligners are discreet, comfortable, and removable, so you can eat and drink what you want, brush and floss with ease, and undergo treatment without the metal and wires associated with braces.

  • How does Invisalign work?

    You wear each set of aligners for about two weeks, gradually moving your teeth until they are straightened to the final position prescribed by your orthodontist.

  • How long does Invisalign treatment take?

    Invisalign treatment typically takes between 12-18 months, but it can vary based on individual cases.

  • How often do I need to visit my orthodontist during Invisalign treatment?

    You should visit your orthodontist about once every six weeks to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned.

  • Can teens use Invisalign?

    Yes, Invisalign offers a solution for teens who want to straighten their teeth without traditional braces.

  • How does Invisalign for teens work?

    Invisalign for teens uses the same technology as the adult version but with special features like compliance indicators, which help ensure that the aligners are being worn properly.

  • What should I expect during my Invisalign consultation?

    During your Invisalign consultation, your orthodontist will examine your teeth, take x-rays and photos, and determine if Invisalign is the right treatment option for you.

  • How are Invisalign aligners made?

    Invisalign aligners are made with 3-D computer imaging technology and are precisely calibrated to fit your mouth at each phase of the treatment.

  • How are Invisalign aligners different from braces?

    Invisalign aligners are clear, comfortable, and removable, unlike traditional braces, which are noticeable and can cause discomfort.

  • How do I care for my Invisalign aligners?

    You should clean your aligners daily by brushing them gently with a toothbrush and mild soap. You should also avoid eating and drinking anything other than water while wearing them.

  • How often should I wear my Invisalign aligners?

    Invisalign aligners should be worn for at least 22 hours per day, only removing them for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing.

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