frequently asked questions

Find answers to common questions about your orthodontic treatment, care instructions, and what to expect

Treatment Process

How long will my treatment take?

Treatment time varies depending on your individual case, but typically can range from 6-24 months for either braces or Clear Aligners & Invisalign. Your doctor will provide a more specific timeline based on your treatment plan.

How often do I need appointments?

Regular adjustment appointments are typically scheduled approximately every 10-12 weeks. These appointments are essential for monitoring progress and making necessary adjustments to ensure your treatment stays on track.

What happens if I miss an appointment?

Missing appointments can delay your treatment progress. Please reschedule as soon as possible, ideally within the same week. We understand emergencies happen and will work with you to find alternative times.

Can I speed up my treatment?

Following your treatment plan exactly as prescribed is the best way to ensure efficient progress. Skipping appointments or not wearing appliances as directed can actually slow down treatment.

daily care & maintenance

How should I clean my braces?

Brush after every meal with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use interdental brushes or floss threaders to clean between wires and brackets. Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash daily.

What foods should I avoid?

Avoid hard foods (ice, nuts, hard candy), sticky foods (caramel, gum, taffy), and foods that can get stuck easily (popcorn, corn on the cob). Cut fruits and vegetables into small pieces.

How do I care for my Clear Aligners or Invisalign?

Clean your aligners daily with lukewarm water and gentle soap or specialized cleaning crystals. Brush and floss before putting them back in. Store them in their case when not wearing them.

What should I do if my retainer breaks?

Contact our office immediately. Don’t attempt to fix it yourself. We’ll schedule you for a retainer repair or replacement as soon as possible to prevent your teeth from shifting.

discomfort & problems

Is it normal for my teeth to hurt?

Some discomfort is normal, especially after adjustments. This typically lasts 2-4 days. Over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods can help. Contact us if pain is severe or lasts longer than a week.

What if a bracket comes loose?

Leave the bracket in place if it’s still attached to the wire. Cover it with orthodontic wax if it’s causing irritation. Call our office during business hours to schedule a repair appointment.

My wire is poking my cheek. What should I do?

Use orthodontic wax to cover the sharp end temporarily. You can also try gently pushing the wire with a pencil eraser. If the problem persists, call our office for an adjustment.

What constitutes an orthodontic emergency?

True emergencies include severe pain, significant trauma to the mouth or teeth, or swallowed orthodontic appliances. For emergencies, call our 24/7 emergency line at (858) 484-6100.

Payment & insurance

What payment options do you offer?

We offer various payment plans including monthly payment options and insurance billing. Our financial coordinator will work with you to find a comfortable payment solution.

Will my insurance cover orthodontic treatment?

Many insurance plans include orthodontic benefits. We’ll verify your coverage and help you understand your benefits. Coverage typically ranges from $1,000-$2,500 depending on your plan.

What if I need to change my payment plan?

We understand that financial situations can change. Contact our billing department to discuss modifications to your payment plan. We’re committed to working with you to continue your treatment.

Are there additional costs during treatment?

Your treatment fee includes all regular appointments and adjustments. Additional costs may apply for lost or broken appliances, extra appointments due to poor oral hygiene, or treatment extensions due to non-compliance.

Still Have Questions?

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What our patients say

“Amazing staff and care, always taking the best care. Dr Marston is always so caring and encouraging, as well as super supportive to help rework and restrategize the way that he assists your needs.”

John K

“Dr. Marston is absolutely professional, and all the staff are very kind. My case was not easy I had to pause and redo it because of my TMJ but what I appreciate most about Dr. Marston is his patience and dedication throughout the process. My daughter also loves visiting the clinic because of the welcoming, kid-friendly environment.”

MCogan

“Just finished my Invisalign treatment. Awesome experience from beginning to end. I felt very comfortable with every step of the process from the first consultation to receiving my retainers. Every question no matter how dumb it sounded was answered professionally. They even worked with me when I moved overseas to continue my treatment. Thanks a ton Dr. Marston and team! I appreciate all of you.”

Mark S

“The entire staff is not only incredibly friendly but also consistently professional. They always go above and beyond to accommodate our scheduling needs, which we deeply appreciate. Dr. Marston is both knowledgeable and compassionate. He takes the time to explain everything clearly, ensuring that both the patient and their family fully understand the treatment plan and what to expect. We couldn’t ask for a better orthodontic experience—and we highly recommend Marston Orthodontics to anyone in need of care!”

“Dr. Marston is amazing. He does a great job of explaining and setting expectations. He is also very gentle with kids. I used him for all three of my daughters. Highly recommend.”

Tam B