Finding the right orthodontist starts with understanding what makes these specialists different from general dentists. An orthodontist completes dental school plus two to three years of specialized residency training focused exclusively on tooth movement, bite correction, and jaw alignment. That extra education means they’ve seen thousands of cases and know how to create your beautiful smile.
At Hanseen Orthodontics, Dr. Jacob Hanseen brings this specialized expertise to patients of all ages across Glendora and the surrounding communities. Whether you’re considering metal braces, clear braces, or Invisalign, working with a board-certified expert gives you confidence that your treatment plan is built on years of focused training and real-world experience.
What Is an Orthodontist and What Do They Do?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who diagnoses, prevents, and corrects misaligned teeth and jaws. While general dentists handle a broad range of oral health care, orthodontists focus exclusively on how teeth fit together and how the jaw develops over time. According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), this added specialty training is required before a dentist can call themselves an orthodontist.
Day to day, an orthodontist designs custom treatment plans using tools like metal braces, clear braces, and Invisalign. They also monitor growth in younger patients, plan tooth movement in stages, and coordinate with general dentists when other care is needed. For families searching for the best orthodontist in Glendora, knowing that level of focused training stands behind every treatment plan makes a real difference.
Dr. Hanseen and his team see children, teens, and adults at Hanseen Orthodontics, tailoring every plan to the patient’s age, goals, and lifestyle. The goal isn’t just straighter teeth, it’s a healthier bite that serves you for life.
How Orthodontic Treatment Works
In short, orthodontic treatment moves teeth into better positions using gentle, steady pressure over time. After a thorough first visit with records like X-rays and digital scans, your orthodontist designs a step-by-step plan. Braces or aligners then apply controlled force, with progress checks every few weeks until your bite and smile reach their goal.
Here’s what to expect along the way:
- First visit and records: Digital X-rays, photos, and impressions capture your current bite
- Treatment planning: Dr. Hanseen designs a step-by-step approach for your specific needs
- Appliance placement: Braces are bonded or aligners are fitted to begin tooth movement
- Progress appointments: Regular visits every four to eight weeks allow for adjustments
- Retention phase: After active treatment, retainers keep your teeth in their new positions
Most plans take 12 to 24 months, though your timeline depends on what needs to be corrected. Dr. Hanseen and his team track progress at each visit to make sure everything stays on schedule.
Benefits of Seeing a Top Orthodontist in Glendora
Straight teeth do more than look great. When your teeth line up properly, you can brush and floss more effectively, which lowers your risk of cavities and gum disease. That’s one reason families across Glendora and the surrounding communities choose specialty care over general dental options for tooth movement.
How Do Straight Teeth Improve Oral Health?
A corrected bite protects your long-term dental health in ways many patients don’t expect. Misaligned teeth can cause:
- Uneven wear on tooth surfaces over the years, which can shorten the lifespan of your enamel
- Jaw tension and headaches
- Difficulty chewing certain foods comfortably, especially crunchy or chewy items
- Speech challenges, including subtle lisps or pronunciation issues
When teeth fit together correctly, daily cleaning becomes easier and food doesn’t get trapped as often. That adds up to fewer dental issues down the road.
Why Does Working With a Specialist Matter?
Beyond the health benefits, there’s the confidence factor. Many patients tell us their new smile changes how they feel in photos, job interviews, and everyday conversations. That kind of self-assurance can shape big moments in life.
Working with a board-certified expert like Dr. Hanseen means you’re getting care from someone whose training is focused entirely on orthodontics. For people looking for the best orthodontist in Glendora, that specialty focus is what sets the experience apart.
Invisalign vs Clear Braces vs Metal Braces: Which Is Right for You?
Choosing between treatment types comes down on your lifestyle, your case complexity, and your personal preferences. Here’s how the main options compare:
| Feature | Metal Braces | Clear Braces | Invisalign |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visibility | Most noticeable | Tooth-colored brackets blend in | Nearly invisible |
| Removability | Stays on through treatment | Stays on through treatment | Pop out for meals and brushing |
| Best for | Complex cases, all ages | Patients wanting discretion with fixed appliances | Mild to moderate cases, discipline with wear time |
| Maintenance | Brush carefully around brackets and wires | Same routine as metal braces | Take aligners out and brush normally |
| Comfort | Modern designs are smaller and lighter than ever | Similar feel to metal braces | Smooth plastic, no wires or brackets |
Metal Braces
Metal braces remain the most versatile option. They handle complex tooth movements effectively and work well for children, teens, and adults.
Clear Braces
Clear braces use ceramic brackets that match your tooth color. They’re less visible than metal but just as effective for most cases.
Invisalign
Invisalign offers the most flexibility. You can remove your aligners for meals, brushing, and special occasions. Dr. Hanseen can help you decide if clear aligners fit your situation.
What Affects the Cost of Orthodontic Treatment
Treatment cost depends mostly on the type of appliance, how complex your case is, and how long you’ll be in active care. Insurance benefits and payment plans can also change what you actually pay out of pocket.
Several factors influence the final price:
| Factor | How It Affects Price |
|---|---|
| Treatment type | Metal braces tend to be the most budget-friendly; Invisalign often costs more |
| Case complexity | Severe crowding or bite issues usually require longer treatment |
| Treatment duration | Longer plans mean more appointments and adjustments over time |
| Geographic location | Pricing varies by region and individual practice |
| Insurance coverage | Many plans cover a portion of orthodontic care |
At Hanseen Orthodontics, we believe a beautiful smile should fit your family’s budget. That’s why we offer affordable financing and custom payment plans designed around what works for you. Your free consultation includes a clear breakdown of costs so there are no surprises.
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits. Our team can help you understand your coverage and get the most from your benefits.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment is suitable for children, teens, and adults with healthy teeth and gums. The AAO recommends children have their first evaluation by age seven. At that age, enough permanent teeth have come in for an orthodontist to spot developing issues like crowding, crossbites, or jaw growth concerns.
Early evaluation doesn’t always mean early treatment. Sometimes the best approach is to monitor growth and wait for the right moment to begin.
Good Candidates Typically Have:
- Healthy teeth and gums (cavities and gum disease should be treated first)
- Realistic expectations about treatment time and results
- Willingness to follow care instructions like wearing rubber bands or aligners as directed
- A commitment to keeping regular appointments throughout the active phase
Teens remain the most common orthodontic patients, but adult treatment has grown significantly in recent years. If you’ve always wanted a beautiful smile, it’s never too late. Dr. Hanseen treats children, teens, and adults at Hanseen Orthodontics, tailoring each treatment plan to the patient’s age, lifestyle, and smile goals. Families across Glendora and the surrounding communities trust the practice for that personalized approach.
Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing an Orthodontist
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Most treatment plans last 12 to 24 months. Your specific timeline depends on what needs to be corrected and how well you follow your orthodontist’s instructions. Simple cases may finish in under a year, while complex bite issues can take longer.
What’s the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?
Think of orthodontists as dentists with extra specialty training. After dental school, they complete an additional two to three years of focused residency. That training covers tooth movement, facial development, and bite correction in depth, which general dentists don’t study at the same level.
Does insurance cover orthodontic treatment?
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits, though coverage varies widely. Some plans cover a set dollar amount, while others pay a percentage of treatment costs. Our team at Hanseen Orthodontics can help you understand your specific benefits.
At what age should my child see an orthodontist?
The AAO recommends an initial evaluation by age seven. This doesn’t mean treatment starts that early for most kids. The goal is to identify potential issues and create a monitoring plan if needed.
Is Invisalign as effective as braces?
For mild to moderate cases, Invisalign produces excellent results. Complex tooth movements or severe bite issues may respond better to braces. Dr. Hanseen can evaluate your situation and recommend the option that will give you the best outcome.
How often will I need appointments?
Expect to visit your orthodontist every four to eight weeks during active treatment. These appointments are usually quick, often 15 to 30 minutes. Regular check-ins let your orthodontist make adjustments and track your progress toward your smile goals.
Choosing the right orthodontist is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your smile. Take time to ask about training, treatment options, and what daily life looks like during care. When you’re ready to learn more, a free consultation is a low-pressure way to get answers tailored to your situation and find your perfect fit.
