[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":1205},["ShallowReactive",2],{"blog-post-\u002Fblog\u002Finvisalign-for-teens-bakersfield":3,"blog-related-\u002Fblog\u002Finvisalign-for-teens-bakersfield":312},{"id":4,"title":5,"body":6,"cover":298,"coverAlt":299,"coverOrientation":300,"date":301,"description":302,"extension":303,"meta":304,"navigation":305,"path":306,"seo":307,"stem":308,"tags":309,"__hash__":311},"blog\u002Fblog\u002Finvisalign-for-teens-bakersfield.md","Invisalign for teens: is it right for your teen?",{"type":7,"value":8,"toc":285},"minimark",[9,13,22,27,35,38,55,63,67,77,85,89,92,111,119,123,126,138,152,155,159,162,194,197,201,204,207,211,219,226,230,238,242,245,259,267],[10,11,12],"p",{},"Invisalign for teens can work well for many teenagers, but it works only if the trays are in the mouth most of the day. The American Association of Orthodontists says aligners should be worn at least 22 hours a day and come out only for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. So the real question is rarely \"Can a teen have Invisalign?\" It is \"Will this teen wear the trays, and does this bite suit them?\"",[10,14,15,16,21],{},"Both parts of that question get answered at an exam. This guide explains how Invisalign Teen differs from adult Invisalign, which teens tend to do well with it, and when braces are the more reliable choice. If you are weighing the two options side by side, our guide to ",[17,18,20],"a",{"href":19},"\u002Fblog\u002Finvisalign-vs-braces-bakersfield","Invisalign vs. braces in Bakersfield"," covers the general comparison.",[23,24,26],"h2",{"id":25},"what-is-invisalign-teen-and-how-is-it-different-from-adult-invisalign","What is Invisalign Teen, and how is it different from adult Invisalign?",[10,28,29,30,34],{},"Invisalign Teen is a version of ",[17,31,33],{"href":32},"\u002Forthodontics\u002Finvisalign","Invisalign"," designed for younger patients. Like the adult system, it uses a series of clear, removable plastic trays. Each tray is shaped to move the teeth a small step, and the patient switches to the next tray on a schedule. Dr. Mendivil is a certified Invisalign and Invisalign Teen provider.",[10,36,37],{},"Two features set the teen version apart:",[39,40,41,49],"ul",{},[42,43,44,48],"li",{},[45,46,47],"strong",{},"Compliance indicators."," These are small blue dots built into the trays. They fade as the tray is worn, which gives a teen, a parent, and the orthodontist a rough visual check on wear time. They are a helpful signal, not a perfect measurement.",[42,50,51,54],{},[45,52,53],{},"Eruption tabs."," Teen teeth are still growing in. Eruption tabs are small features that hold space for back teeth that have not fully come through the gums yet, so the treatment plan can account for them.",[10,56,57,58,62],{},"The biology underneath is identical to braces. Steady, gentle pressure makes the bone around a tooth remodel so the tooth can shift. If you want the full explanation, see ",[17,59,61],{"href":60},"\u002Fblog\u002Fhow-do-braces-move-teeth-bakersfield","how braces move teeth",". What changes is the tool, and how much of the result depends on the patient's daily habits.",[23,64,66],{"id":65},"what-age-can-a-teenager-get-invisalign","What age can a teenager get Invisalign?",[10,68,69,70,76],{},"There is no single age. What matters is dental development, not the birthday. Aligners are planned around the teeth a patient has, so an orthodontist wants to see enough permanent teeth in place to plan reliably. The ADA's ",[17,71,75],{"href":72,"rel":73},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.mouthhealthy.org\u002Fall-topics-a-z\u002Fbraces",[74],"nofollow","MouthHealthy site"," notes that orthodontic treatment often begins between ages 8 and 14, and that abnormal bites usually become noticeable between ages 6 and 12.",[10,78,79,80,84],{},"A younger child who still has many baby teeth may be better served by an early check and a watch-and-wait plan. Our guide on ",[17,81,83],{"href":82},"\u002Fblog\u002Fdoes-my-child-need-braces-bakersfield","whether your child needs braces"," explains when an early visit makes sense. For a teen with most permanent teeth in, aligners are often on the table.",[23,86,88],{"id":87},"which-teens-do-well-with-invisalign","Which teens do well with Invisalign?",[10,90,91],{},"Aligners tend to fit teens who:",[39,93,94,97,100,108],{},[42,95,96],{},"Have mild to moderate crowding or spacing, or a bite problem within what aligners can predictably manage.",[42,98,99],{},"Are reliably organized about small daily habits, such as putting a case in the same pocket of the same backpack.",[42,101,102,103,107],{},"Play sports or a wind instrument and want a removable appliance. (Remove the trays for the game or the rehearsal, then put them back in right after. Our post on ",[17,104,106],{"href":105},"\u002Fblog\u002Fbraces-and-school-sports-bakersfield","braces and school sports"," covers mouthguards in more detail.)",[42,109,110],{},"Care a great deal about how the appliance looks in photos and at school.",[10,112,113,114,118],{},"The AAO lists gapped, crowded, or crooked teeth, overbite, underbite, open bite, and crossbite among the conditions aligners can treat, and adds that some cases are handled more predictably with braces, or with aligners combined with elastics (small rubber bands). Which group your teen falls into is a clinical judgment. For a refresher on those bite terms, see our explainer on ",[17,115,117],{"href":116},"\u002Fblog\u002Foverbite-underbite-crossbite-explained-bakersfield","overbite, underbite, and crossbite",".",[23,120,122],{"id":121},"when-are-braces-the-better-choice-for-a-teen","When are braces the better choice for a teen?",[10,124,125],{},"Braces are fixed to the teeth, so they work around the clock whether or not a teenager is feeling diligent that week. That is their main advantage, and it matters for teens.",[10,127,128,132,133,137],{},[17,129,131],{"href":130},"\u002Forthodontics\u002Fbraces","Traditional braces"," or ",[17,134,136],{"href":135},"\u002Forthodontics\u002Faesthetic-braces","clear and gold braces"," are often the stronger recommendation when:",[39,139,140,143,146,149],{},[42,141,142],{},"Teeth need large rotations or long-distance movement.",[42,144,145],{},"The bite correction is complex and needs the control a fixed appliance gives.",[42,147,148],{},"A teen has trouble keeping track of belongings, or has already lost a retainer or two.",[42,150,151],{},"Wear time has been a recurring family conversation about other things, too.",[10,153,154],{},"None of this is a judgment on a teenager's character. It is a practical match between the appliance and the real-life routine. A good orthodontist will say plainly when braces are the better fit, even if a teen was hoping for aligners.",[23,156,158],{"id":157},"what-does-a-normal-day-with-invisalign-look-like-for-a-teen","What does a normal day with Invisalign look like for a teen?",[10,160,161],{},"The routine is simple, but it asks for a few new habits.",[163,164,165,171,177,183],"ol",{},[42,166,167,170],{},[45,168,169],{},"Trays in for roughly 22 hours."," That includes during class, homework, and sleep.",[42,172,173,176],{},[45,174,175],{},"Out for meals and snacks."," Teens can eat what they normally eat, which is a real difference from braces. They should rinse or brush before putting trays back in, so food does not get trapped against the teeth.",[42,178,179,182],{},[45,180,181],{},"A case, every time."," Trays wrapped in a napkin on a cafeteria table are the most common way aligners get thrown away. A case in a fixed spot prevents it.",[42,184,185,188,189,193],{},[45,186,187],{},"Clean trays, clean teeth."," Rinse in cool or lukewarm water and brush gently with a soft brush. Our guide to ",[17,190,192],{"href":191},"\u002Fblog\u002Fhow-to-clean-invisalign-aligners-bakersfield","cleaning Invisalign aligners"," has the full routine.",[10,195,196],{},"Bakersfield adds one local wrinkle. Summer heat can warp plastic, and a tray left on a car dashboard or in a hot backpack is a tray that may no longer fit. Keep the case out of parked cars, especially during the long Valley summers.",[23,198,200],{"id":199},"what-happens-if-a-teen-loses-or-breaks-a-tray","What happens if a teen loses or breaks a tray?",[10,202,203],{},"It happens, and it is not a reason to panic. Call the office. Whether to go back a step, move ahead, or get a replacement depends on where your teen is in the series, and the team can tell you which. Waiting and hoping the problem will fix itself usually costs more time than a quick call does.",[10,205,206],{},"Parents can help in a low-key way. A weekly glance at the blue dots, a quick \"do you have your case?\" before school, and a standing rule that trays go in the case and never in a pocket will prevent most problems. Treat it as logistics and not as a source of conflict.",[23,208,210],{"id":209},"is-invisalign-teen-as-effective-as-braces","Is Invisalign Teen as effective as braces?",[10,212,213,214,218],{},"For the right case, aligners can deliver a very good result. Treatment time also depends on the case, not the brand of appliance, so our post on ",[17,215,217],{"href":216},"\u002Fblog\u002Fhow-long-do-braces-take-bakersfield","how long braces take"," is a useful reference point for timelines. The honest answer is that effectiveness depends on two things: whether the bite suits aligners, and how consistently they are worn. When either one is shaky, the better recommendation may be braces.",[10,220,221,222,118],{},"Retainers matter just as much after aligners as after braces. Teeth move back without them, whatever the appliance was. See ",[17,223,225],{"href":224},"\u002Fblog\u002Fretainers-after-braces-bakersfield","why retainers matter after braces",[23,227,229],{"id":228},"what-about-the-cost-and-insurance","What about the cost and insurance?",[10,231,232,233,237],{},"Cost depends on the case and plan, so we do not publish a single number here. Dr. Mendivil's office accepts several dental insurance carriers, and the ",[17,234,236],{"href":235},"\u002Ffinancing","financing page"," explains insurance and payment options. The consultation is the place to get an answer specific to your teen.",[23,239,241],{"id":240},"when-should-you-see-an-orthodontist-about-invisalign-for-your-teen","When should you see an orthodontist about Invisalign for your teen?",[10,243,244],{},"Book an exam if:",[39,246,247,250,253,256],{},[42,248,249],{},"Your teen has crowded, spaced, or protruding teeth, or a bite that looks off.",[42,251,252],{},"Your teen has been asking about clear aligners and you want a professional opinion on whether they suit the bite.",[42,254,255],{},"Your teen has had braces or aligners before and a retainer was lost or teeth have shifted.",[42,257,258],{},"You are comparing options and want to understand tradeoffs before choosing.",[10,260,261,262,266],{},"Dr. Mendivil is a board-certified orthodontist who has practiced in Bakersfield since 1989. Treatment takes place in private rooms, and staff speak English and Spanish. At the first visit, he can look at your teen's bite, explain whether ",[17,263,265],{"href":264},"\u002Forthodontics\u002Finvisalign-teen","Invisalign Teen"," or braces fits best, and answer questions from both the parent and the teen.",[10,268,269,270,274,275,279,280,118],{},"You can ",[17,271,273],{"href":272},"\u002Fschedule","schedule a free consultation"," whenever it suits your family. More answers are on the ",[17,276,278],{"href":277},"\u002Ffaq","FAQ page",". For more on how orthodontists approach aligners, the American Association of Orthodontists has a helpful page on ",[17,281,284],{"href":282,"rel":283},"https:\u002F\u002Faaoinfo.org\u002Ftreatments\u002Faligners\u002F",[74],"aligners",{"title":286,"searchDepth":287,"depth":287,"links":288},"",2,[289,290,291,292,293,294,295,296,297],{"id":25,"depth":287,"text":26},{"id":65,"depth":287,"text":66},{"id":87,"depth":287,"text":88},{"id":121,"depth":287,"text":122},{"id":157,"depth":287,"text":158},{"id":199,"depth":287,"text":200},{"id":209,"depth":287,"text":210},{"id":228,"depth":287,"text":229},{"id":240,"depth":287,"text":241},"\u002Fservices\u002Flady-invisaligners.jpg","Patient holding a clear Invisalign aligner","landscape","2026-11-04","Invisalign for teens, explained by a Bakersfield orthodontist: who it suits, how wear tracking works, school and sports tips, and when braces fit better.","md",{},true,"\u002Fblog\u002Finvisalign-for-teens-bakersfield",{"title":5,"description":302},"blog\u002Finvisalign-for-teens-bakersfield",[310],"Treatment options","l9VhRw8q8ye69QPvR02EZJoh7f3PRkypzaxTByPBFuE",[313,580,880],{"id":314,"title":315,"body":316,"cover":570,"coverAlt":571,"coverOrientation":300,"date":572,"description":573,"extension":303,"meta":574,"navigation":305,"path":575,"seo":576,"stem":577,"tags":578,"__hash__":579},"blog\u002Fblog\u002Fclear-braces-vs-gold-braces-bakersfield.md","Clear braces vs. gold braces: how to choose",{"type":7,"value":317,"toc":559},[318,321,324,328,337,344,364,370,374,377,387,391,394,397,413,416,420,426,429,433,436,450,458,462,467,473,477,480,504,513,517,527,531,534,548,551],[10,319,320],{},"Clear braces and gold braces work the same way as traditional metal braces, so the choice between them is mostly about looks, durability, and day-to-day upkeep. Clear ceramic brackets blend with tooth enamel. Gold and rose gold brackets are metal with a warmer finish. Standard silver brackets remain the simplest option. None of the three changes how teeth move, and the bracket finish does not set how long treatment takes.",[10,322,323],{},"If you are comparing clear braces vs. gold braces for yourself or for a teenager, this guide covers what each one looks like, what it asks of you, and how to settle the decision without guessing.",[23,325,327],{"id":326},"what-is-actually-different-about-clear-gold-and-metal-braces","What is actually different about clear, gold, and metal braces?",[10,329,330,331,336],{},"Every fixed brace has the same parts: a small bracket bonded to each tooth, and an archwire (a thin wire) that runs through the brackets and guides the teeth. The ",[17,332,335],{"href":333,"rel":334},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.aaoinfo.org\u002Ftreatments\u002Fbraces\u002F",[74],"American Association of Orthodontists"," describes metal braces as the traditional option and ceramic braces as the option with a near-seamless look, using tooth-colored or clear brackets.",[10,338,339,340,343],{},"At our practice, ",[17,341,342],{"href":135},"aesthetic braces"," come in three finishes:",[39,345,346,352,358],{},[42,347,348,351],{},[45,349,350],{},"Clear ceramic."," Translucent brackets that blend with enamel.",[42,353,354,357],{},[45,355,356],{},"Champagne gold."," A warm metallic finish, a subtler look than silver.",[42,359,360,363],{},[45,361,362],{},"Rose gold."," A softer, pink-toned metallic finish.",[10,365,366,367,369],{},"Gold and rose gold are metal brackets with a colored finish, which makes them slightly stronger than the clear ceramic option. ",[17,368,131],{"href":130}," use silver metal brackets and remain a reliable choice for straightforward and complex bites alike.",[23,371,373],{"id":372},"are-clear-braces-invisible","Are clear braces invisible?",[10,375,376],{},"No, and any honest orthodontist will say so. Clear braces are less noticeable than silver ones, but you can still see them up close. The brackets are tooth-colored or translucent, so they pick up the shade of the tooth behind them. The wire is the other visible piece, and it still reads as a line across the teeth.",[10,378,379,380,384,385,118],{},"Think of it as camouflage, not a disappearing act. From across a conference table, clear braces fade into the background. From a foot away in good light, they are there. If a truly hidden appliance matters most, the options to ask about are ",[17,381,383],{"href":382},"\u002Forthodontics\u002Flingual-braces","lingual braces",", which sit behind the teeth, or ",[17,386,33],{"href":32},[23,388,390],{"id":389},"do-clear-braces-stain","Do clear braces stain?",[10,392,393],{},"This is the question that gets the most conflicting answers online, so here is the plain version. The ceramic brackets themselves do not stain. The small elastic ties that hold the wire in place can pick up color from coffee, tea, curry, and red wine. Those ties are swapped at every adjustment visit, so any discoloration is temporary and gone within weeks.",[10,395,396],{},"A few habits keep clear braces looking clear:",[39,398,399,402,410],{},[42,400,401],{},"Rinse with water after coffee, tea, or red wine.",[42,403,404,405,409],{},"Brush after meals when you can. Our guide to ",[17,406,408],{"href":407},"\u002Fblog\u002Fhow-to-brush-and-floss-with-braces-bakersfield","brushing and flossing with braces"," covers the technique in detail.",[42,411,412],{},"Mention it at your next visit if the ties look dull. They are easy to replace.",[10,414,415],{},"Gold and rose gold brackets are metal, so staining is not the concern there. Their appeal is the finish itself.",[23,417,419],{"id":418},"are-gold-braces-stronger-than-clear-braces","Are gold braces stronger than clear braces?",[10,421,422,423,425],{},"Generally, metal brackets are more durable than ceramic ones. Ceramic is a harder but more brittle material, which is why the AAO notes ceramic options may not suit every patient. Gold and rose gold finishes sit on metal brackets, so they share the sturdiness of traditional braces. That matters for active kids and for anyone who tends to bite down on hard foods they were told to avoid. If you are the parent of an athlete, our post on ",[17,424,106],{"href":105}," covers mouthguards and game day.",[10,427,428],{},"None of this means clear braces are fragile in everyday use. It means that if your child is hard on things, or you want the fewest surprise visits, a metal bracket in a color you like is the lower-maintenance path.",[23,430,432],{"id":431},"which-looks-better-on-teens-and-which-on-adults","Which looks better on teens, and which on adults?",[10,434,435],{},"There is no rule, but patterns show up:",[39,437,438,444],{},[42,439,440,443],{},[45,441,442],{},"Adults"," often choose clear ceramic or champagne gold, especially in client-facing work where a subtler look matters.",[42,445,446,449],{},[45,447,448],{},"Teens"," often choose rose gold, and many are happy with traditional silver.",[10,451,452,453,457],{},"Choose by how visible you want the brackets to be, not by what is expected for your age. Adults wear rose gold and teens wear clear. The right answer is whichever one you will feel fine about for the length of treatment. Our post on ",[17,454,456],{"href":455},"\u002Fblog\u002Fadult-braces-bakersfield","adult braces in Bakersfield"," goes further on options for grown-up smiles.",[23,459,461],{"id":460},"does-the-bracket-finish-change-treatment-time-or-results","Does the bracket finish change treatment time or results?",[10,463,464,465,118],{},"No. Treatment time depends on your bite and the movements your teeth need, not on the bracket finish. Clear, gold, rose gold, and silver braces all move teeth the same way, through steady pressure from the wire as the bone around each tooth remodels. If you want the science behind that, see ",[17,466,61],{"href":60},[10,468,469,470,472],{},"For a sense of timing, see ",[17,471,217],{"href":216},". The honest answer there is that a consultation and exam are what produce a real estimate.",[23,474,476],{"id":475},"should-you-choose-clear-braces-gold-braces-or-invisalign","Should you choose clear braces, gold braces, or Invisalign?",[10,478,479],{},"Ask yourself three questions:",[163,481,482,488,498],{},[42,483,484,487],{},[45,485,486],{},"How visible can the appliance be?"," If you want the least visible option, ask about lingual braces or aligners. If a subtle finish is enough, clear or gold braces work.",[42,489,490,493,494,497],{},[45,491,492],{},"Will you wear a removable appliance as directed?"," Aligners work only when they stay in. Fixed brackets work around the clock without your effort. Our comparison of ",[17,495,496],{"href":19},"Invisalign vs. braces"," lays out the tradeoffs.",[42,499,500,503],{},[45,501,502],{},"Does your bite suit the option?"," Some bites are better managed with fixed brackets. That is a clinical judgment made after an exam, and it should come before the style choice, not after.",[10,505,506,507,512],{},"The ",[17,508,511],{"href":509,"rel":510},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.mouthhealthy.org\u002Fall-topics-a-z\u002Forthodontics",[74],"American Dental Association's MouthHealthy site"," notes that braces and aligners are the appliances orthodontists most commonly use to move teeth, which is a useful reminder that both routes are well established.",[23,514,516],{"id":515},"what-does-it-cost-to-choose-clear-or-gold-braces","What does it cost to choose clear or gold braces?",[10,518,519,520,522,523,118],{},"We do not publish a price for each finish here, because costs depend on the case and the plan. Prices and payment options are covered at the consultation, and our ",[17,521,236],{"href":235}," explains how insurance and payment plans work. For a broader look, see our guide to ",[17,524,526],{"href":525},"\u002Fblog\u002Fhow-much-do-braces-cost-in-bakersfield-ca","what braces cost in Bakersfield",[23,528,530],{"id":529},"when-should-you-see-an-orthodontist-about-braces","When should you see an orthodontist about braces?",[10,532,533],{},"Book an exam if any of these apply:",[39,535,536,539,542,545],{},[42,537,538],{},"Teeth are crowded, spaced, or sticking out, or the bite looks off.",[42,540,541],{},"A child is around age 7 or older and has never had an orthodontic check.",[42,543,544],{},"You are an adult who has put off braces because of how they look.",[42,546,547],{},"You are not sure which option fits and want a professional to tell you.",[10,549,550],{},"The finish is the easy part. The first decision is whether, and how, your teeth should move, and that takes an exam and X-rays. Dr. Mendivil is a board-certified orthodontist who has practiced in Bakersfield since 1989, and treatment takes place in private rooms. Staff speak English and Spanish.",[10,552,553,554,556,557,118],{},"If you would like to see the brackets in person and talk through options, you can ",[17,555,273],{"href":272},". Questions can also wait for the visit, and many answers are on our ",[17,558,278],{"href":277},{"title":286,"searchDepth":287,"depth":287,"links":560},[561,562,563,564,565,566,567,568,569],{"id":326,"depth":287,"text":327},{"id":372,"depth":287,"text":373},{"id":389,"depth":287,"text":390},{"id":418,"depth":287,"text":419},{"id":431,"depth":287,"text":432},{"id":460,"depth":287,"text":461},{"id":475,"depth":287,"text":476},{"id":515,"depth":287,"text":516},{"id":529,"depth":287,"text":530},"\u002Fservices\u002Fgold-braces-model.jpg","Model of teeth with gold-finish braces brackets","2026-11-02","Clear braces vs. gold braces vs. metal: how each looks, holds up, and stains, plus how to choose the right bracket finish. A Bakersfield orthodontist's guide.",{},"\u002Fblog\u002Fclear-braces-vs-gold-braces-bakersfield",{"title":315,"description":573},"blog\u002Fclear-braces-vs-gold-braces-bakersfield",[310],"oFIoXYgglKt-ayhatMqqd9uF5s2rReXQQsib-BabYnM",{"id":581,"title":582,"body":583,"cover":871,"coverAlt":872,"coverOrientation":300,"date":873,"description":874,"extension":303,"meta":875,"navigation":305,"path":116,"seo":876,"stem":877,"tags":878,"__hash__":879},"blog\u002Fblog\u002Foverbite-underbite-crossbite-explained-bakersfield.md","Overbite, underbite, crossbite: what's the difference?",{"type":7,"value":584,"toc":860},[585,600,603,607,614,617,631,634,638,641,644,670,677,681,684,692,696,699,702,716,719,723,726,729,733,736,740,743,793,798,802,815,819,822,845,850],[10,586,587,588,591,592,595,596,599],{},"An overbite, an underbite, and a crossbite are all bite problems, and the difference comes down to which teeth sit where when your mouth closes. In an ",[45,589,590],{},"overbite",", the upper front teeth cover too much of the lower ones. In an ",[45,593,594],{},"underbite",", the lower front teeth sit in front of the upper ones. In a ",[45,597,598],{},"crossbite",", some upper teeth close inside the lower teeth instead of outside them.",[10,601,602],{},"Orthodontists call any of these a malocclusion, which simply means the teeth and jaws do not meet the way they are meant to. Below is what each one looks like, what tends to cause it, and what treatment usually involves, so you know what to ask at a consultation.",[23,604,606],{"id":605},"what-is-a-bite-and-what-counts-as-a-normal-one","What is a \"bite,\" and what counts as a normal one?",[10,608,609,610,613],{},"Your bite is the way your upper and lower teeth fit together. In a well-aligned bite, the upper teeth sit slightly in front of and over the lower teeth, and the back teeth meet in a stable, interlocking way. The ",[17,611,511],{"href":509,"rel":612},[74]," describes the goal of orthodontics as a healthy bite in which teeth meet the opposing teeth properly.",[10,615,616],{},"Two terms come up often in an orthodontic exam:",[39,618,619,625],{},[42,620,621,624],{},[45,622,623],{},"Overjet"," is the horizontal distance between the upper and lower front teeth.",[42,626,627,630],{},[45,628,629],{},"Overbite"," (in the strict clinical sense) is how far the upper front teeth overlap the lower ones vertically.",[10,632,633],{},"Some overlap is normal. A bite problem is a pattern that is outside the usual range or that affects how the teeth and jaws work. Whether it needs treatment is a decision for an exam and X-rays, not a mirror.",[23,635,637],{"id":636},"what-is-an-overbite","What is an overbite?",[10,639,640],{},"An overbite means the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth more than expected. People also use the word to describe upper teeth that stick out far forward, which an orthodontist would call increased overjet. The two often travel together.",[10,642,643],{},"Common contributors include:",[39,645,646,652,658,664],{},[42,647,648,651],{},[45,649,650],{},"Jaw size or position."," The lower jaw may be set back relative to the upper jaw.",[42,653,654,657],{},[45,655,656],{},"Genetics."," Bite patterns often run in families.",[42,659,660,663],{},[45,661,662],{},"Habits."," Long-term thumb, finger, or pacifier sucking can push the upper front teeth forward.",[42,665,666,669],{},[45,667,668],{},"Tooth position."," The upper front teeth may simply have tipped forward.",[10,671,672,673,676],{},"A deep overbite can cause the lower teeth to press into the gums behind the upper teeth or wear against them. A prominent overjet also leaves the front teeth more exposed to injury, which matters for kids who play sports. Our post on ",[17,674,675],{"href":105},"braces and school sports in Bakersfield"," covers mouthguards in more detail.",[23,678,680],{"id":679},"what-is-an-underbite","What is an underbite?",[10,682,683],{},"An underbite is the reverse arrangement: the lower front teeth sit ahead of the upper front teeth when the mouth is closed. It can come from a lower jaw that is larger or further forward than the upper jaw, an upper jaw that is smaller, or a combination.",[10,685,686,687,691],{},"Underbites are worth checking early. The ",[17,688,335],{"href":689,"rel":690},"https:\u002F\u002Faaoinfo.org\u002Fwhats-trending\u002Fwhen-should-your-child-see-an-orthodontist\u002F",[74]," lists underbite among the problems that an orthodontist can often spot by age 7, and early evaluation gives the orthodontist more options while a child is still growing. It does not mean treatment starts at 7. It means someone qualified is watching.",[23,693,695],{"id":694},"what-is-a-crossbite","What is a crossbite?",[10,697,698],{},"A crossbite happens when one or more upper teeth close inside the lower teeth rather than outside them. It can involve the front teeth (an anterior crossbite) or the back teeth (a posterior crossbite), on one side or both.",[10,700,701],{},"Two points are worth knowing:",[39,703,704,710],{},[42,705,706,709],{},[45,707,708],{},"A narrow upper jaw is a common cause of a posterior crossbite."," The upper arch is too narrow to fit around the lower arch.",[42,711,712,715],{},[45,713,714],{},"Some crossbites come with a jaw shift."," The AAO notes that a jaw that shifts to one side as the teeth come together is one of the signs worth an evaluation. The child may slide the lower jaw sideways to find a comfortable closing position, which can go unnoticed at home.",[10,717,718],{},"Because a crossbite can affect how the jaw grows and how the teeth wear, it is usually better evaluated sooner than later.",[23,720,722],{"id":721},"what-is-an-open-bite","What is an open bite?",[10,724,725],{},"An open bite is the one people forget about. The upper and lower teeth do not touch in some area when the mouth closes. In an anterior open bite, the back teeth meet but the front teeth stay apart. In a posterior open bite, it is the other way around.",[10,727,728],{},"Thumb-sucking and similar habits are well-known contributors, as is the way the tongue rests or pushes. Jaw growth patterns and genetics play a part too. An open bite can make biting into certain foods awkward and, in some people, can be linked to how they swallow or speak. An orthodontist can tell you whether that applies to you.",[23,730,732],{"id":731},"can-a-bite-problem-fix-itself","Can a bite problem fix itself?",[10,734,735],{},"Generally, no. Children's jaws and teeth do change as they grow, and some mild patterns improve with time, which is exactly why monitoring is useful. But established overbites, underbites, and crossbites do not usually correct on their own once the permanent teeth are in. If one looks like it is getting better or worse, that is a reason to have it watched, not a reason to wait and see indefinitely.",[23,737,739],{"id":738},"how-are-bite-problems-treated","How are bite problems treated?",[10,741,742],{},"The right plan depends on the cause: teeth, jaws, or both. An orthodontist builds it from a clinical exam, X-rays, and records.",[39,744,745,762,776,782],{},[42,746,747,750,751,754,755,758,759,761],{},[45,748,749],{},"Braces."," Traditional ",[17,752,753],{"href":130},"braces",", including ",[17,756,757],{"href":135},"aesthetic options such as clear or gold braces",", move teeth into better positions and can correct many overbites, underbites, and crossbites. Adjustments to the bite happen gradually; our post on ",[17,760,61],{"href":60}," explains the biology behind it.",[42,763,764,767,768,770,771,773,774,118],{},[45,765,766],{},"Clear aligners."," For suitable cases, ",[17,769,33],{"href":32}," and ",[17,772,265],{"href":264}," can address bite problems. Which cases suit aligners is a matter for an exam. See our comparison of ",[17,775,496],{"href":19},[42,777,778,781],{},[45,779,780],{},"Growth-guiding appliances."," In a growing child, an orthodontist may use an appliance to widen a narrow upper jaw or influence how the jaws develop. These are used selectively, and timing depends on the child.",[42,783,784,787,788,792],{},[45,785,786],{},"Jaw surgery."," When the problem lies mainly in the size or position of the jaws and a patient has finished growing, orthodontic treatment may be combined with surgery by an oral surgeon. The practice also handles ",[17,789,791],{"href":790},"\u002Forthodontics\u002Fcomplex-cases","complex cases"," that call for coordinated care.",[10,794,795,796,118],{},"Treatment length varies with the problem. For a general idea, read ",[17,797,217],{"href":216},[23,799,801],{"id":800},"do-bite-problems-cause-jaw-pain-or-tmj-issues","Do bite problems cause jaw pain or TMJ issues?",[10,803,804,805,809,810,814],{},"Not necessarily, and the relationship is not simple. Many people have an imperfect bite and no jaw trouble at all. Still, jaw clicking, soreness when chewing, or morning headaches alongside a noticeable bite problem are worth mentioning to an orthodontist. Dr. Mendivil treats roughly 40 TMJ cases a year, and our guide to ",[17,806,808],{"href":807},"\u002Fblog\u002Ftmj-symptoms-bakersfield","TMJ symptoms"," lists the signs worth knowing. The practice's ",[17,811,813],{"href":812},"\u002Forthodontics\u002Ftmj","TMJ treatment page"," has more on how that care works.",[23,816,818],{"id":817},"when-should-you-see-an-orthodontist-about-your-bite","When should you see an orthodontist about your bite?",[10,820,821],{},"Book an evaluation if you notice any of the following in yourself or your child:",[39,823,824,827,830,833,836,839,842],{},[42,825,826],{},"Upper front teeth that stick out noticeably, or lower teeth that sit in front of the upper ones",[42,828,829],{},"A jaw that shifts to one side when closing",[42,831,832],{},"Front teeth that do not touch when the back teeth are together",[42,834,835],{},"Upper teeth that close inside the lower teeth",[42,837,838],{},"Difficulty biting or chewing, or frequent cheek biting",[42,840,841],{},"Jaw pain, clicking, or headaches with a visible bite concern",[42,843,844],{},"A child who is approaching age 7 and has not had an orthodontic screening",[10,846,847,848,118],{},"Adults are not left out. Bite problems can be corrected well after the teen years; see our guide to ",[17,849,456],{"href":455},[10,851,852,853,856,857,118],{},"Dr. Mendivil has treated patients in Bakersfield since 1989, and the practice offers a free consultation where you can have your bite looked at and your questions answered. You can ",[17,854,855],{"href":272},"schedule a consultation"," online or call 661-323-5910. Treatment questions are also covered in our ",[17,858,859],{"href":277},"FAQ",{"title":286,"searchDepth":287,"depth":287,"links":861},[862,863,864,865,866,867,868,869,870],{"id":605,"depth":287,"text":606},{"id":636,"depth":287,"text":637},{"id":679,"depth":287,"text":680},{"id":694,"depth":287,"text":695},{"id":721,"depth":287,"text":722},{"id":731,"depth":287,"text":732},{"id":738,"depth":287,"text":739},{"id":800,"depth":287,"text":801},{"id":817,"depth":287,"text":818},"\u002Fdr\u002Fdr-mendivil-xrays.jpg","Orthodontist reviewing dental X-rays","2026-10-28","Overbite, underbite, crossbite and open bite explained in plain English: what each looks like, why it happens, and how Bakersfield orthodontists treat them.",{},{"title":582,"description":874},"blog\u002Foverbite-underbite-crossbite-explained-bakersfield",[310],"uT4cHNuTcBx1IzisqEkltevG38HZG7H1gAqpQfpvNGs",{"id":881,"title":882,"body":883,"cover":1195,"coverAlt":1196,"coverOrientation":300,"date":1197,"description":1198,"extension":303,"meta":1199,"navigation":305,"path":407,"seo":1200,"stem":1201,"tags":1202,"__hash__":1204},"blog\u002Fblog\u002Fhow-to-brush-and-floss-with-braces-bakersfield.md","How to Brush and Floss With Braces: A Practical Guide",{"type":7,"value":884,"toc":1180},[885,888,891,895,898,904,907,911,914,958,962,965,1009,1012,1016,1019,1036,1039,1044,1047,1051,1054,1057,1061,1064,1072,1076,1079,1122,1126,1138,1142,1145,1167,1170,1174],[10,886,887],{},"To brush and floss with braces, brush for two minutes at least twice a day with\na soft brush and fluoride toothpaste, angling the bristles at the brackets and\nthe gumline, then clean between the teeth once a day with waxed floss and a\nfloss threader, an interdental brush, or a water flosser. Braces do not make\nteeth decay on their own. They give food and plaque more places to hide, and\nthe routine below is how you take those hiding places away.",[10,889,890],{},"Here is the practical version for Bakersfield patients and parents: what to\nbuy, what to do in what order, how long it takes, and what happens if the\nroutine slips.",[23,892,894],{"id":893},"why-do-braces-make-brushing-harder","Why do braces make brushing harder?",[10,896,897],{},"Brackets (the small attachments bonded to each tooth) and the archwire (the\nthin wire connecting them) create ledges and corners. Plaque, the sticky film\nof bacteria that forms on teeth all day, collects on those ledges and along the\ngumline. If it stays there, it can irritate the gums and leave marks on the\nenamel.",[10,899,506,900,903],{},[17,901,511],{"href":72,"rel":902},[74],"\nnotes that limiting sugary foods and keeping a good routine matters during\ntreatment, because plaque built up around brackets can permanently stain or\ndamage teeth. That is the whole reason this article exists: the cleaning is\nnot complicated, but it does need to be thorough.",[10,905,906],{},"The good news is that a patient who cleans well usually finishes treatment with\nhealthy gums and clean enamel under every bracket. It is a skill, and like most\nskills it gets faster.",[23,908,910],{"id":909},"what-do-you-need-to-brush-with-braces","What do you need to brush with braces?",[10,912,913],{},"A short, boring shopping list beats a bathroom drawer full of gadgets.",[39,915,916,922,934,940,946,952],{},[42,917,918,921],{},[45,919,920],{},"A soft-bristled toothbrush."," Manual or electric both work. Many orthodontic\npatients like an electric brush because it keeps a steady motion, but a\ncareful manual brush is fine.",[42,923,924,927,928,933],{},[45,925,926],{},"Fluoride toothpaste."," The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial\nResearch ",[17,929,932],{"href":930,"rel":931},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.nidcr.nih.gov\u002Fhealth-info\u002Ffluoride",[74],"explains that fluoride strengthens enamel","\nand can help repair the earliest stages of decay.",[42,935,936,939],{},[45,937,938],{},"Waxed floss and a floss threader",", or floss made for braces. Plain\nunwaxed floss tends to shred on brackets.",[42,941,942,945],{},[45,943,944],{},"An interdental brush."," This is a tiny bottle-brush-style tool that slides\nunder the wire and cleans the sides of brackets.",[42,947,948,951],{},[45,949,950],{},"A water flosser (optional)."," It helps rinse out debris. It supports\nbrushing and flossing rather than replacing them.",[42,953,954,957],{},[45,955,956],{},"A travel kit."," A small brush and toothpaste in a backpack or glove box\nmakes cleaning after lunch realistic. School and sports schedules are busy\nenough that the routine has to be portable.",[23,959,961],{"id":960},"how-do-you-brush-your-teeth-with-braces-step-by-step","How do you brush your teeth with braces, step by step?",[10,963,964],{},"Plan on about two minutes, twice a day, and think of the mouth as a few\nseparate zones rather than one big job.",[163,966,967,973,979,985,991,997,1003],{},[42,968,969,972],{},[45,970,971],{},"Rinse first."," A quick swish of water loosens larger food pieces.",[42,974,975,978],{},[45,976,977],{},"Remove anything removable."," That includes elastics you were told to take\noff for cleaning, or a retainer or appliance you were told to remove.",[42,980,981,984],{},[45,982,983],{},"Start with the gumline."," Angle the bristles about 45 degrees toward the\ngums and brush gently in small circles. This is the zone that gets missed.",[42,986,987,990],{},[45,988,989],{},"Brush above the brackets."," Angle the brush down toward the tooth and the\ntop of each bracket.",[42,992,993,996],{},[45,994,995],{},"Brush below the brackets."," Angle the brush up, so the bristles reach\nunder the bottom edge of each bracket.",[42,998,999,1002],{},[45,1000,1001],{},"Brush the chewing surfaces and the backs."," Do not skip the tongue side of\nthe teeth; the backs collect plaque just like the fronts.",[42,1004,1005,1008],{},[45,1006,1007],{},"Finish with a mirror check."," Smile at the mirror and look for food on\nbrackets and a dull, fuzzy film on the teeth. If you see it, go back.",[10,1010,1011],{},"Gentle pressure is enough. Scrubbing hard does not clean better, and it can\nirritate gums that are already adjusting to braces.",[23,1013,1015],{"id":1014},"how-do-you-floss-with-braces","How do you floss with braces?",[10,1017,1018],{},"Flossing is the step most people dread, and it is also the one that makes the\nbiggest difference between the teeth.",[163,1020,1021,1024,1027,1030,1033],{},[42,1022,1023],{},"Pull out about 18 inches of waxed floss and thread it through the floss\nthreader, which works like a big needle.",[42,1025,1026],{},"Slide the threader under the archwire, between two teeth, and pull the floss\nthrough.",[42,1028,1029],{},"Wrap the floss in a C shape against one tooth and move it gently up and\ndown the side, slightly under the gumline.",[42,1031,1032],{},"Switch to the neighboring tooth and repeat.",[42,1034,1035],{},"Slide the floss out sideways, then thread the next gap.",[10,1037,1038],{},"Expect the first few weeks to take noticeably longer than your pre-braces\nroutine. That is normal. Most people speed up quickly once they have done it\ndaily for a week or two.",[1040,1041,1043],"h3",{"id":1042},"is-a-water-flosser-or-interdental-brush-enough","Is a water flosser or interdental brush enough?",[10,1045,1046],{},"Both are useful, and neither is a substitute for the other. An interdental\nbrush is very good at cleaning around brackets and under the wire. A water\nflosser is good at flushing out food. Floss is still the tool that cleans the\ntight contact between neighboring teeth. If flossing with a threader is a\nbattle, ask us at your next adjustment which combination suits your mouth.",[23,1048,1050],{"id":1049},"what-are-the-white-spots-people-get-after-braces","What are the white spots people get after braces?",[10,1052,1053],{},"White spots are chalky, dull patches that sometimes show up on the enamel\nafter the brackets come off, usually in the shape of the bracket. They are\nareas where minerals were pulled out of the enamel (decalcification, in\nclinical terms) because plaque sat on that spot for a long time.",[10,1055,1056],{},"They are a good argument for the routine above. They tend to appear when\ncleaning has been inconsistent around the brackets, especially near the\ngumline. Mild spots can fade with good home care and fluoride, and your dentist\ncan advise on anything that persists. The better plan is prevention: clean\nevery day, and keep up with your regular cleanings.",[23,1058,1060],{"id":1059},"how-does-diet-fit-into-oral-hygiene-with-braces","How does diet fit into oral hygiene with braces?",[10,1062,1063],{},"Cleaning is half the picture. The other half is how often sugar reaches your\nteeth. Sipping a sugary drink for an hour feeds plaque far longer than having\none with a meal. MouthHealthy also recommends avoiding popcorn, corn on the\ncob, chewing gum, whole apples, and other sticky or hard foods during\ntreatment, both for the sake of the brackets and for cleanliness.",[10,1065,1066,1067,1071],{},"For a practical list of what to eat while your teeth are sore, our\n",[17,1068,1070],{"href":1069},"\u002Fblog\u002Ffirst-week-with-braces-bakersfield","first week with braces guide"," goes\nday by day. Water is the best default drink, and it is easy to carry in the\nBakersfield heat.",[23,1073,1075],{"id":1074},"what-about-invisalign-and-other-types-of-braces","What about Invisalign and other types of braces?",[10,1077,1078],{},"The principles carry over, with different mechanics.",[39,1080,1081,1090,1098,1114],{},[42,1082,1083,1085,1086,1089],{},[45,1084,131],{}," (",[17,1087,1088],{"href":130},"learn more","): the routine\nabove, with the most attention to the brackets and under the wire.",[42,1091,1092,1085,1095,1097],{},[45,1093,1094],{},"Clear and gold braces",[17,1096,342],{"href":135},"):\nthe same cleaning routine. Plaque is just as likely to collect, so the care\ndoes not change.",[42,1099,1100,1103,1104,1107,1108,1110,1111,1113],{},[45,1101,1102],{},"Invisalign:"," aligners come out to eat and to brush, so cleaning teeth is\nsimpler. Cleaning the aligners themselves is the new habit; we cover it in\n",[17,1105,1106],{"href":191},"how to clean Invisalign aligners",".\nDr. Mendivil is a certified Invisalign and Invisalign Teen provider, so\n",[17,1109,33],{"href":32}," and\n",[17,1112,265],{"href":264}," patients get the same care\nadvice as everyone else.",[42,1115,1116,1085,1119,1121],{},[45,1117,1118],{},"Lingual braces",[17,1120,383],{"href":382},"): the\nbrackets sit behind the teeth, so the tongue side needs extra time.",[23,1123,1125],{"id":1124},"how-often-should-you-see-a-dentist-during-orthodontic-treatment","How often should you see a dentist during orthodontic treatment?",[10,1127,1128,1129,1110,1133,1137],{},"Keep your regular dental cleanings and checkups going during treatment. A\ncleaning removes the buildup that home care misses, and a dentist can catch\nearly problems around brackets. Our practice also offers\n",[17,1130,1132],{"href":1131},"\u002Fdental\u002Fcleanings","dental cleanings",[17,1134,1136],{"href":1135},"\u002Fdental\u002Fpreventative","preventative care"," alongside orthodontics, so families\ncan handle both in the same office.",[23,1139,1141],{"id":1140},"when-should-you-call-your-orthodontist","When should you call your orthodontist?",[10,1143,1144],{},"Mention it at your next visit, or call the office, if you notice any of the\nfollowing:",[39,1146,1147,1150,1153,1156,1164],{},[42,1148,1149],{},"Gums that are red, swollen, or bleed every time you brush after the first\ncouple of weeks",[42,1151,1152],{},"A persistent bad taste or smell that brushing does not fix",[42,1154,1155],{},"White or chalky patches near the brackets",[42,1157,1158,1159,1163],{},"A broken bracket or poking wire that makes cleaning difficult (see our\n",[17,1160,1162],{"href":1161},"\u002Fblog\u002Fbraces-emergency-what-to-do-bakersfield","braces emergency guide",")",[42,1165,1166],{},"Difficulty flossing that is leaving you skipping it altogether",[10,1168,1169],{},"These are normal things to ask about. Nobody at the office is grading your\nbrushing, and early help is easier than late repair.",[23,1171,1173],{"id":1172},"questions-about-braces-or-oral-hygiene-in-bakersfield","Questions about braces or oral hygiene in Bakersfield?",[10,1175,1176,1177,1179],{},"If you are thinking about braces for yourself or your child, or you already\nhave them and want a second opinion on your routine, you are welcome to come\nin. Dr. Mendivil has treated patients in Bakersfield since 1989, and a\nconsultation is free. You can ",[17,1178,855],{"href":272}," online or\ncall the office at 661-323-5910.",{"title":286,"searchDepth":287,"depth":287,"links":1181},[1182,1183,1184,1185,1189,1190,1191,1192,1193,1194],{"id":893,"depth":287,"text":894},{"id":909,"depth":287,"text":910},{"id":960,"depth":287,"text":961},{"id":1014,"depth":287,"text":1015,"children":1186},[1187],{"id":1042,"depth":1188,"text":1043},3,{"id":1049,"depth":287,"text":1050},{"id":1059,"depth":287,"text":1060},{"id":1074,"depth":287,"text":1075},{"id":1124,"depth":287,"text":1125},{"id":1140,"depth":287,"text":1141},{"id":1172,"depth":287,"text":1173},"\u002Fservices\u002Ftwo-teens-braces.jpg","Two teens smiling with traditional braces","2026-10-26","How to brush and floss with braces, step by step: the right tools, a realistic routine, and what to do about white spots. From a Bakersfield orthodontist.",{},{"title":882,"description":1198},"blog\u002Fhow-to-brush-and-floss-with-braces-bakersfield",[1203],"Treatment timeline","O3vv5hgNCByMak6EG9uP2HDqszHEVZi0H3IQrv3vaus",1793808653613]