Frequently Asked Orthodontic Questions in Berkeley, CA
Have questions about braces, clear aligners, or getting started? Below are the questions Berkeley families ask us most. If you do not see yours, call Berkeley Family Orthodontics at (510) 849-3613 and we will be glad to help.
Orthodontic Questions and Answers
What is orthodontic treatment, and what problems can it fix?
Orthodontic treatment uses braces or clear aligners to move teeth and guide jaw growth into a healthy, well-aligned bite. It corrects crowding, gaps, and bite problems such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites (together called malocclusion). Beyond a straighter smile, it makes teeth easier to clean and helps your bite work comfortably. See our common problems page for the specific issues we treat.
What is the difference between an orthodontist and a general dentist?
An orthodontist starts as a general dentist and then completes several additional years of specialty training focused only on aligning teeth and jaws. General dentists care for your overall oral health, while an orthodontist specializes in moving teeth. For anything beyond the simplest case, that specialty training matters. Dr. Iezman has focused on orthodontics alone for 38 years.
How do I know if my child or I need braces?
Common signs include crowded or crooked teeth, gaps, difficulty chewing or biting, teeth that do not meet properly, jaw shifting or clicking, and habits like mouth breathing or thumb sucking in children. The best way to know for sure is an evaluation. For children, the recommended first checkup is by age 7 (see early treatment).
How much does orthodontic treatment cost, and do you offer payment plans?
Comprehensive treatment in the Berkeley area generally runs from about $3,000 to $7,000 or more, depending on your needs, and your exact fee is quoted after an exam. We keep it affordable with in-house, no-interest payment plans starting around $300 a month. Full details are on our financing page.
How long does the first visit take, and what happens?
Plan for about 30 minutes to an hour. Dr. Iezman examines your teeth and bite, discusses what he sees, and, if helpful, takes X-rays, photos, or a digital scan to document your starting point. You will leave understanding your options and next steps. Learn more on our first visit page.
How often will I have appointments during treatment?
Most patients come in about every 4 to 8 weeks for an adjustment or checkup. We do our best to accommodate after-school and later-day times, though some longer procedures are scheduled during mid-day hours.
Do I still need to see my family dentist during orthodontic treatment?
Yes. Braces and aligners make thorough cleaning harder, so keep seeing your family dentist for checkups and cleanings about every six months (or as they advise). Good routine care protects your results.
Do you accept patients transferring from another orthodontist?
Yes. We welcome transfer patients and treat them with the same care as new ones. We gather complete records to understand where your treatment stands and build a plan to finish it well.
Do you treat adults?
Absolutely. About one in four orthodontic patients today is an adult, and Dr. Iezman has treated patients into their 80s. Discreet options like clear aligners and ceramic braces make adult treatment comfortable. See our adult orthodontics page.
I need to premedicate before dental visits. Should I premedicate before orthodontic visits too?
Yes. If your physician or dentist has advised premedication before dental care, please take it before your orthodontic appointments as well, and let our team know.
Still Have Questions?
We are happy to answer them. Call Berkeley Family Orthodontics at (510) 849-3613 or request an appointment online. Our office is at 2999 Regent Street, Suite 408, in Berkeley’s Elmwood neighborhood, serving the East Bay.
