[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":1335},["ShallowReactive",2],{"blog-post-\u002Fblog\u002Finvisalign-vs-braces-bakersfield":3,"blog-related-\u002Fblog\u002Finvisalign-vs-braces-bakersfield":338},{"id":4,"title":5,"body":6,"cover":324,"coverAlt":325,"coverOrientation":326,"date":327,"description":328,"extension":329,"meta":330,"navigation":331,"path":332,"seo":333,"stem":334,"tags":335,"__hash__":337},"blog\u002Fblog\u002Finvisalign-vs-braces-bakersfield.md","Invisalign vs. braces in Bakersfield: which is right for you?",{"type":7,"value":8,"toc":300},"minimark",[9,13,16,19,24,32,39,42,46,49,52,68,71,85,88,92,95,100,103,107,110,113,116,120,123,130,133,137,149,152,160,164,167,180,184,192,199,203,206,209,236,239,243,247,250,254,257,261,264,268,271,275,283,287,290,293],[10,11,12],"p",{},"Invisalign and braces can both straighten teeth and correct a bite. The\ndifference is in how they do it, what each asks of the patient, and which\ntypes of tooth movement each handles with the most control.",[10,14,15],{},"Neither option is better across the board. Invisalign is nearly invisible and\ncomes out for meals, but it only works when it is in the mouth, and it\ntypically costs somewhat more. Braces are always working and give the\northodontist direct control over every tooth, but they are visible and require\nmore care around eating and cleaning.",[10,17,18],{},"Here is how the two compare, and how Dr. Mendivil decides which one to\nrecommend for a Bakersfield patient.",[20,21,23],"h2",{"id":22},"how-do-invisalign-and-braces-move-teeth-differently","How do Invisalign and braces move teeth differently?",[10,25,26,31],{},[27,28,30],"a",{"href":29},"\u002Forthodontics\u002Fbraces","Traditional braces"," bond a bracket to each tooth and\nconnect the brackets with an archwire. The orthodontist adjusts the wire and\nadds elastics or springs to direct each tooth to a planned position. Because the\nappliance is fixed, it applies steady pressure around the clock.",[10,33,34,38],{},[27,35,37],{"href":36},"\u002Forthodontics\u002Finvisalign","Invisalign"," uses a series of removable clear trays.\nEach aligner is shaped to move the teeth a small step from the previous one.\nThe patient wears a tray for its scheduled period, then changes to the next\naligner in the series. The full sequence is planned in advance using\nInvisalign's treatment technology, and the orthodontist reviews progress at\ncheck-in visits.",[10,40,41],{},"Both approaches rely on the same biology. Gentle, sustained pressure prompts\nthe bone around a tooth to remodel so the tooth can shift. What changes is the\ntool delivering that pressure and how much of the result depends on the\npatient's daily habits.",[20,43,45],{"id":44},"which-bites-does-each-option-handle-well","Which bites does each option handle well?",[10,47,48],{},"The diagnosis comes first. An orthodontist looks at crowding, spacing, how the\nupper and lower teeth meet, the jaw relationship, and any teeth that are\nrotated, tipped, or sitting too high or low before recommending an appliance.",[10,50,51],{},"Invisalign is often a strong fit for:",[53,54,55,59,62,65],"ul",{},[56,57,58],"li",{},"Mild to moderate crowding or spacing.",[56,60,61],{},"Teeth that have shifted after earlier orthodontic treatment.",[56,63,64],{},"Bite corrections within the range clear aligners can predictably manage.",[56,66,67],{},"Patients who want the appliance to be as discreet as possible.",[10,69,70],{},"Braces are often the stronger choice for:",[53,72,73,76,79,82],{},[56,74,75],{},"Significant crowding that requires teeth to move a long distance.",[56,77,78],{},"Teeth that need substantial rotation or vertical movement.",[56,80,81],{},"More complex bite corrections, including some overbites, underbites, and\ncrossbites.",[56,83,84],{},"Cases where the orthodontist needs fine control over individual teeth in the\nfinishing stage.",[10,86,87],{},"Clear aligner technology continues to expand what Invisalign can treat, and\nmany cases could reasonably be finished either way. When both are possible, the\ndecision usually comes down to lifestyle, appearance, budget, and how confident\nthe patient is about wearing aligners consistently.",[20,89,91],{"id":90},"what-is-daily-life-like-with-each","What is daily life like with each?",[10,93,94],{},"This is where the two options feel most different.",[96,97,99],"h3",{"id":98},"wearing-braces","Wearing braces",[10,101,102],{},"Braces stay on until the orthodontist removes them. There is nothing to\nremember to put in, and no way to lose the appliance. Patients do need to avoid\nhard, sticky, and chewy foods that can loosen brackets or bend wires, and\nbrushing and flossing take more time and attention around the hardware.\nAdjustment visits are generally scheduled every 4 to 8 weeks.",[96,104,106],{"id":105},"wearing-invisalign","Wearing Invisalign",[10,108,109],{},"Aligners come out for eating, drinking anything other than water, and\nbrushing. That flexibility is the main appeal, and it also creates the main\nchallenge: Invisalign only moves teeth while it is being worn. The trays need\nto be in place about 22 hours each day, every day, for the full course of\ntreatment.",[10,111,112],{},"That is harder than it sounds. Every meal, snack, and coffee means removing the\ntrays, storing them safely, brushing, and putting them back in promptly. Trays\nleft out for an extended lunch, a long evening, or a forgotten night at a time\nadd up. When wear time falls short, the next aligner may not fit as planned,\nand treatment slows or stalls until the teeth catch up.",[10,114,115],{},"Patients who succeed with Invisalign tend to treat the 22-hour target as\nnon-negotiable. Patients who know they may be tempted to leave the trays out\nare often better served by braces, which do the work whether or not anyone is\nthinking about them.",[20,117,119],{"id":118},"is-invisalign-or-braces-better-for-teenagers","Is Invisalign or braces better for teenagers?",[10,121,122],{},"Both are used for teens, and the same compliance question applies. Braces are\nthe traditional choice for teenagers because they remove the daily decision of\nwhether to wear the appliance. Many parents prefer that certainty.",[10,124,125,129],{},[27,126,128],{"href":127},"\u002Forthodontics\u002Finvisalign-teen","Invisalign Teen"," is Invisalign's version\ndesigned for younger patients. The trays include wear indicators that fade with\nuse so parents and the orthodontist can see whether aligners are being worn,\nand the plan accounts for teeth that are still erupting. It can work well for a\nteen who is genuinely motivated to wear the trays, plays sports or a wind\ninstrument, or strongly prefers a less visible option.",[10,131,132],{},"Honesty about the individual teenager matters more than the appliance. A teen\nwho reliably wears aligners can do very well with Invisalign. A teen who is\nlikely to leave them in a backpack will finish faster and with a better result\nin braces.",[20,134,136],{"id":135},"how-do-the-timelines-compare","How do the timelines compare?",[10,138,139,140,144,145,148],{},"At Dr. Mendivil Orthodontics, braces typically take about ",[141,142,143],"strong",{},"18 to 30 months",",\ndepending on how far the teeth need to move and how the bite fits. Most adult\nInvisalign cases take about ",[141,146,147],{},"12 to 18 months",". These are planning ranges, not\npromises.",[10,150,151],{},"The shorter Invisalign range partly reflects the kinds of cases aligners are\nchosen for. Mild to moderate alignment concerns finish sooner in any appliance.\nA complex bite takes longer whether it is treated with trays or brackets, and\ninconsistent aligner wear can stretch an Invisalign timeline well past the\noriginal estimate.",[10,153,154,155,159],{},"Our guide to ",[27,156,158],{"href":157},"\u002Fblog\u002Fhow-long-do-braces-take-bakersfield","how long braces take in Bakersfield","\nwalks through each stage of treatment from records to retainers.",[20,161,163],{"id":162},"does-invisalign-cost-more-than-braces","Does Invisalign cost more than braces?",[10,165,166],{},"Invisalign is typically somewhat more expensive than traditional braces. The\ncustom aligner series is manufactured by Invisalign for each patient, and that\nlab cost is built into the fee. The gap is usually modest rather than dramatic,\nand the exact difference depends on case complexity and treatment length.",[10,168,169,170,174,175,179],{},"Orthodontic insurance benefits generally apply to both options in the same way,\nand a Cherry payment plan can be used for either. At a consultation, you should\nreceive a written estimate for each appliance being considered so the cost\ndifference is clear before you decide. For the factors that shape the total,\nread our guide to ",[27,171,173],{"href":172},"\u002Fblog\u002Fhow-much-do-braces-cost-in-bakersfield-ca","braces costs in Bakersfield","\nand our explanation of ",[27,176,178],{"href":177},"\u002Fblog\u002Fbraces-payment-plans-bakersfield-cherry","how Cherry payment plans work",".",[20,181,183],{"id":182},"what-about-clear-gold-or-lingual-braces","What about clear, gold, or lingual braces?",[10,185,186,187,191],{},"Appearance is one of the most common reasons patients ask about Invisalign,\nand there is a middle ground. ",[27,188,190],{"href":189},"\u002Forthodontics\u002Faesthetic-braces","Aesthetic braces","\nuse the same bracket-and-wire approach as traditional braces in a clear ceramic,\nchampagne gold, or rose-gold finish. They keep the control and always-on\nbenefit of fixed braces with a less traditional look.",[10,193,194,198],{},[27,195,197],{"href":196},"\u002Forthodontics\u002Flingual-braces","Lingual braces"," go a step further by placing the\nbrackets on the back of the teeth, where they are hidden from view. They are a\nmore specialized option and suit certain bites better than others, but for the\nright patient they combine the discretion of aligners with fixed-appliance\ncontrol.",[20,200,202],{"id":201},"how-does-dr-mendivil-decide","How does Dr. Mendivil decide?",[10,204,205],{},"The recommendation starts with the bite, not the product. At a consultation,\nDr. Mendivil examines the teeth, jaw relationship, and supporting tissues,\nreviews diagnostic records, and identifies what needs to move and how far.",[10,207,208],{},"From there, the conversation covers:",[210,211,212,218,224,230],"ol",{},[56,213,214,217],{},[141,215,216],{},"Which appliances can reach the treatment goal."," Some bites are\ncandidates for either option. Others are clearly better suited to one.",[56,219,220,223],{},[141,221,222],{},"What each option asks of you."," Aligner wear time, food restrictions,\ncleaning routines, and visit frequency all differ.",[56,225,226,229],{},[141,227,228],{},"How the timelines and fees compare"," for your specific case.",[56,231,232,235],{},[141,233,234],{},"Your preferences."," Visibility, work and social settings, sports, and\nyour own honest assessment of how consistently you will wear a removable\nappliance.",[10,237,238],{},"Dr. Mendivil is a certified Invisalign and Invisalign Teen provider and has\ntreated patients with braces in Bakersfield since 1989. Because the practice\noffers both, the recommendation is based on what will produce the best result\nfor your bite rather than on which appliance the office happens to provide.",[20,240,242],{"id":241},"common-questions-about-invisalign-and-braces","Common questions about Invisalign and braces",[96,244,246],{"id":245},"is-invisalign-as-effective-as-braces","Is Invisalign as effective as braces?",[10,248,249],{},"For the cases it is designed to treat, yes. Invisalign can produce excellent\nresults for mild to moderate alignment and many bite corrections when the\ntrays are worn as prescribed. For complex movements, braces may still give the\northodontist more control. Effectiveness depends on matching the appliance to\nthe case.",[96,251,253],{"id":252},"can-i-switch-from-braces-to-invisalign-or-the-other-way","Can I switch from braces to Invisalign, or the other way?",[10,255,256],{},"Sometimes. A patient may begin in braces for movements that need fixed control\nand finish in aligners, or move to braces if aligner wear is not working out.\nAny change should be planned by the orthodontist, since it can affect the\ntimeline and cost.",[96,258,260],{"id":259},"does-invisalign-hurt-less-than-braces","Does Invisalign hurt less than braces?",[10,262,263],{},"Both create pressure when teeth begin to move, usually for a few days after an\nadjustment or a new tray. Aligners have no brackets or wires that can irritate\nthe cheeks and lips, which some patients find more comfortable. Neither option\nshould cause sharp or lasting pain.",[96,265,267],{"id":266},"do-i-need-a-retainer-after-invisalign","Do I need a retainer after Invisalign?",[10,269,270],{},"Yes. Teeth can shift after any orthodontic treatment. A retainer, often a\nclear tray worn at night, holds the result after the last aligner or after\nbraces are removed. Long-term retainer wear is part of the plan in either case.",[96,272,274],{"id":273},"do-i-need-a-referral-to-ask-about-invisalign","Do I need a referral to ask about Invisalign?",[10,276,277,278,282],{},"No. You can schedule an orthodontic consultation with Dr. Mendivil\nOrthodontics directly. If you already see a general dentist, their records can\nbe helpful, and routine cleanings continue during treatment. Our guide to\n",[27,279,281],{"href":280},"\u002Fblog\u002Fdentist-vs-orthodontist-for-braces-in-bakersfield","dentists and orthodontists for braces","\nexplains how the two work together.",[20,284,286],{"id":285},"invisalign-and-braces-in-bakersfield","Invisalign and braces in Bakersfield",[10,288,289],{},"Dr. Guy Mendivil has practiced orthodontics in Bakersfield since 1989 and\noffers traditional braces, aesthetic braces, lingual braces, and Invisalign\nfor children, teens, and adults. Treatment takes place in private rooms, and\nbilingual staff are available in English and Spanish.",[10,291,292],{},"The office is located at 11901 Bolthouse Dr Suite 200, serving Seven Oaks,\nStockdale, and greater Bakersfield.",[10,294,295,299],{},[27,296,298],{"href":297},"\u002Fschedule","Schedule a free consultation"," to find out whether Invisalign,\nbraces, or another option fits your bite, and to compare the timeline and cost\nof each before you decide.",{"title":301,"searchDepth":302,"depth":302,"links":303},"",2,[304,305,306,311,312,313,314,315,316,323],{"id":22,"depth":302,"text":23},{"id":44,"depth":302,"text":45},{"id":90,"depth":302,"text":91,"children":307},[308,310],{"id":98,"depth":309,"text":99},3,{"id":105,"depth":309,"text":106},{"id":118,"depth":302,"text":119},{"id":135,"depth":302,"text":136},{"id":162,"depth":302,"text":163},{"id":182,"depth":302,"text":183},{"id":201,"depth":302,"text":202},{"id":241,"depth":302,"text":242,"children":317},[318,319,320,321,322],{"id":245,"depth":309,"text":246},{"id":252,"depth":309,"text":253},{"id":259,"depth":309,"text":260},{"id":266,"depth":309,"text":267},{"id":273,"depth":309,"text":274},{"id":285,"depth":302,"text":286},"\u002Fservices\u002Flady-invisaligners.jpg","Patient holding a clear Invisalign aligner","landscape","2026-09-02","Compare Invisalign and braces on how they move teeth, which bites each handles, daily wear, timeline, and cost, and learn how a Bakersfield orthodontist decides between them.","md",{},true,"\u002Fblog\u002Finvisalign-vs-braces-bakersfield",{"title":5,"description":328},"blog\u002Finvisalign-vs-braces-bakersfield",[336],"Treatment options","N5oqFYy-zCxx61kXtBfKXRhQwc2DCy_wGJAhWp15Qas",[339,699,1015],{"id":340,"title":341,"body":342,"cover":688,"coverAlt":689,"coverOrientation":326,"date":690,"description":691,"extension":329,"meta":692,"navigation":331,"path":693,"seo":694,"stem":695,"tags":696,"__hash__":698},"blog\u002Fblog\u002Fadult-braces-bakersfield.md","Can adults get braces? A Bakersfield guide",{"type":7,"value":343,"toc":665},[344,347,350,360,364,367,370,393,396,400,403,406,409,413,416,420,425,428,432,437,440,444,449,452,455,458,463,466,470,473,476,490,493,507,510,514,523,526,532,536,539,577,583,587,590,593,596,599,603,606,609,613,617,620,624,627,631,634,638,644,648,651,655,658,660],[10,345,346],{},"Yes, adults can get braces. Healthy teeth can be moved at almost any age, and\nadult orthodontic treatment may address crowding, spacing, a bite that does not\nfit evenly, or teeth that have shifted since earlier treatment.",[10,348,349],{},"Age is rarely the deciding factor. The more important questions are whether\nyour teeth and gums are healthy enough for treatment, what your bite needs, and\nwhich appliance gives the orthodontist the right control.",[10,351,352,353,359],{},"The ",[27,354,358],{"href":355,"rel":356},"https:\u002F\u002Faaoinfo.org\u002Fadult-orthodontics\u002F",[357],"nofollow","American Association of Orthodontists","\nreports that 1 in 3 orthodontic patients is an adult. Here is what to know if\nyou are considering braces or Invisalign in Bakersfield.",[20,361,363],{"id":362},"why-do-adults-get-orthodontic-treatment","Why do adults get orthodontic treatment?",[10,365,366],{},"Some adults never had braces as children. Others had treatment years ago and\nhave noticed changes after losing or stopping retainer wear. A new dental\nrestoration, a missing tooth, or gradual changes in the bite can also make\nalignment worth revisiting.",[10,368,369],{},"Common reasons to schedule an adult orthodontic evaluation include:",[53,371,372,375,378,381,384,387,390],{},[56,373,374],{},"Teeth that have become crowded or overlap.",[56,376,377],{},"Spaces that are new, widening, or difficult to clean around.",[56,379,380],{},"An overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite.",[56,382,383],{},"Uneven tooth wear where the bite makes contact in the wrong places.",[56,385,386],{},"A retainer that feels tight or no longer fits.",[56,388,389],{},"Teeth that need to be positioned before planned restorative dental work.",[56,391,392],{},"Interest in improving tooth alignment or the appearance of the smile.",[10,394,395],{},"These signs do not identify the right treatment by themselves. An orthodontist\nneeds to examine the teeth, roots, gums, and bite before recommending braces,\nclear aligners, or another approach.",[20,397,399],{"id":398},"is-there-an-age-limit-for-braces","Is there an age limit for braces?",[10,401,402],{},"There is no fixed upper age limit. Adults in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond\nmay be candidates when their teeth and supporting tissues are healthy.",[10,404,405],{},"Adult treatment does differ from treatment during childhood. The jaws have\nfinished growing, and adults are more likely to have crowns, implants, missing\nteeth, gum recession, or a history of dental work that needs to be included in\nthe plan. Those factors may change the sequence or require coordination with a\ngeneral dentist or another dental specialist. They do not automatically rule\nout orthodontic care.",[10,407,408],{},"Gum health deserves particular attention. The AAO notes that moving teeth when\nperiodontal tissue is unhealthy can increase the risk of recession, root\nproblems, or tooth loss. Active cavities and gum inflammation should be\naddressed before tooth movement begins.",[20,410,412],{"id":411},"what-types-of-braces-can-adults-choose","What types of braces can adults choose?",[10,414,415],{},"The right appliance depends first on the diagnosis. After that, visibility,\ndaily routine, and personal preference can help narrow the options.",[96,417,419],{"id":418},"traditional-metal-braces","Traditional metal braces",[10,421,422,424],{},[27,423,30],{"href":29}," use metal brackets bonded to the\nfront of the teeth and an archwire that guides movement. Because they remain in\nplace, they do not depend on remembering to put an appliance back in after\nmeals.",[10,426,427],{},"They are often considered when a bite needs precise control, teeth require\nsignificant rotation or vertical movement, or the patient would rather not\nmanage removable trays. Metal braces are visible, but they remain a reliable\nchoice for straightforward and complex adult cases.",[96,429,431],{"id":430},"clear-gold-or-rose-gold-braces","Clear, gold, or rose-gold braces",[10,433,434,436],{},[27,435,190],{"href":189}," work with the same general\nbracket-and-wire method in a different finish. Clear ceramic brackets blend\nmore closely with tooth enamel. Champagne gold and rose gold provide warmer\nmetal finishes than traditional silver brackets.",[10,438,439],{},"These options can suit adults who want the control of fixed braces with a less\ntraditional appearance. The bracket finish does not determine the treatment\ntimeline; the bite and required movements do.",[96,441,443],{"id":442},"invisalign-clear-aligners","Invisalign clear aligners",[10,445,446,448],{},[27,447,37],{"href":36}," uses a planned series of removable clear\ntrays. Each aligner makes part of the prescribed movement before the patient\nchanges to the next one.",[10,450,451],{},"Aligners can be removed for meals, brushing, and occasional events, which many\nadults find useful. That flexibility also creates responsibility: the trays\nneed to be worn about 22 hours each day. Inconsistent wear can slow or stall\nprogress.",[10,453,454],{},"Invisalign can treat many mild to moderate alignment concerns, but it is not\nthe right appliance for every bite. Dr. Mendivil is a certified Invisalign\nprovider and compares aligners with fixed braces after evaluating the case.",[96,456,197],{"id":457},"lingual-braces",[10,459,460,462],{},[27,461,197],{"href":196}," place brackets and wires on the\nback, or tongue side, of the teeth. From the front, the appliance is hidden.",[10,464,465],{},"They can be useful for adults whose work or social setting makes visible\nbraces difficult and whose bite is suited to lingual treatment. They also\nrequire an adjustment period for speech and tongue comfort, and they are a\nmore specialized option than front-facing braces or aligners.",[20,467,469],{"id":468},"are-invisalign-or-braces-better-for-adults","Are Invisalign or braces better for adults?",[10,471,472],{},"Neither is universally better. The stronger choice is the one that can produce\nthe needed movements and that you can manage consistently.",[10,474,475],{},"Fixed braces may fit you better when:",[53,477,478,481,484,487],{},[56,479,480],{},"The bite requires movements that are more predictable with brackets and\nwires.",[56,482,483],{},"You do not want treatment to depend on remembering aligner wear.",[56,485,486],{},"You are comfortable cleaning carefully around fixed hardware.",[56,488,489],{},"Clear, gold, or hidden brackets address your concerns about visibility.",[10,491,492],{},"Invisalign may fit you better when:",[53,494,495,498,501,504],{},[56,496,497],{},"Your diagnosis is appropriate for clear aligners.",[56,499,500],{},"Removing the appliance for meals or work situations is important.",[56,502,503],{},"You can reliably wear the trays for the prescribed hours.",[56,505,506],{},"You are prepared to clean both your teeth and aligners consistently.",[10,508,509],{},"Start with the bite rather than the product. An orthodontic consultation\nshould explain which options can reach the same treatment goal and where the\ntradeoffs differ.",[20,511,513],{"id":512},"how-long-do-adult-braces-take","How long do adult braces take?",[10,515,516,517,519,520,522],{},"Traditional and aesthetic braces at Dr. Mendivil Orthodontics typically take\nabout ",[141,518,143],{},", depending on bite complexity. Most adult Invisalign\ncases take about ",[141,521,147],{},". These are planning ranges, not guarantees.",[10,524,525],{},"A limited alignment case may finish sooner. A case involving a complex bite,\nimpacted teeth, missing teeth, or coordination with other dental work may take\nlonger. Your response to tooth movement and consistency with appointments,\nelastics, or aligner wear also matter.",[10,527,528,529,531],{},"Our detailed guide to\n",[27,530,158],{"href":157},"\nexplains each stage from records through retainers.",[20,533,535],{"id":534},"what-should-happen-before-adult-braces","What should happen before adult braces?",[10,537,538],{},"Orthodontic treatment should begin with a healthy foundation and a clear plan.\nBefore starting, expect the following:",[210,540,541,547,553,559,565,571],{},[56,542,543,546],{},[141,544,545],{},"An orthodontic examination."," The orthodontist evaluates tooth position,\nthe bite, jaw relationship, and any concerns that may affect movement.",[56,548,549,552],{},[141,550,551],{},"Diagnostic records."," X-rays and other records show roots, bone, teeth\nthat have not erupted, and details that cannot be seen in a mirror.",[56,554,555,558],{},[141,556,557],{},"A dental-health review."," Cavities, gum inflammation, or overdue dental\ntreatment may need attention first.",[56,560,561,564],{},[141,562,563],{},"Coordination around existing dental work."," Crowns, implants, bridges,\nmissing teeth, or planned restorations should be part of the treatment\nsequence.",[56,566,567,570],{},[141,568,569],{},"A discussion of options."," You should understand why a particular\nappliance fits the diagnosis and what alternatives are reasonable.",[56,572,573,576],{},[141,574,575],{},"A written timeline and cost estimate."," The plan should explain the\nexpected length, visits, retainers, insurance benefits, and payment choices.",[10,578,579,580,582],{},"Your general dentist remains important during orthodontic treatment. Routine\nexams and cleanings continue while the orthodontist manages tooth movement and\nthe bite. Our guide to\n",[27,581,281],{"href":280},"\nexplains how those roles work together.",[20,584,586],{"id":585},"what-is-daily-life-like-with-adult-braces","What is daily life like with adult braces?",[10,588,589],{},"Most adults continue their usual work, exercise, travel, and social routines.\nThe main adjustment is building appliance care into the day.",[10,591,592],{},"With fixed braces, you will need to avoid foods that can loosen brackets or\nbend wires and clean carefully around the hardware. Short adjustment visits\nare generally scheduled every 4 to 8 weeks.",[10,594,595],{},"With Invisalign, trays come out for eating and brushing. They need to go back\nin promptly afterward, and you will need a reliable way to keep them clean and\nprotected when they are not being worn. Check-in visits are generally every 6\nto 10 weeks.",[10,597,598],{},"Both approaches may cause temporary pressure or tenderness when treatment\nstarts or advances. If a wire breaks, a bracket loosens, or an aligner stops\nfitting as expected, contact the office rather than waiting for the next\nappointment.",[20,600,602],{"id":601},"do-adults-need-retainers-after-treatment","Do adults need retainers after treatment?",[10,604,605],{},"Yes. Teeth naturally shift throughout life, including after successful braces\nor aligner treatment. A retainer holds the result after active tooth movement\nends.",[10,607,608],{},"Retainer instructions vary by case, but long-term nighttime wear is common.\nAdults returning for treatment after earlier braces often already know how\nquickly teeth can move when a retainer is lost, damaged, or no longer worn.",[20,610,612],{"id":611},"common-questions-about-adult-braces","Common questions about adult braces",[96,614,616],{"id":615},"can-i-get-braces-if-i-had-them-as-a-teenager","Can I get braces if I had them as a teenager?",[10,618,619],{},"Yes. Adults commonly return because teeth have shifted or the bite has changed.\nThe orthodontist will determine whether a retainer adjustment, limited\ntreatment, or a new course of braces or aligners is appropriate.",[96,621,623],{"id":622},"can-i-get-braces-with-crowns-or-implants","Can I get braces with crowns or implants?",[10,625,626],{},"Existing dental work does not automatically prevent treatment. Crowns,\nimplants, bridges, and missing teeth can affect which teeth may move and how\nthe plan is sequenced. Bring information about prior dental work to the\nconsultation so the orthodontist and dentist can coordinate.",[96,628,630],{"id":629},"are-clear-braces-only-for-teenagers","Are clear braces only for teenagers?",[10,632,633],{},"No. Clear ceramic, gold, and rose-gold braces are available to adults as well\nas teens. Adults in professional settings often choose them when they want\nfixed braces with a different appearance.",[96,635,637],{"id":636},"will-adult-braces-cost-more","Will adult braces cost more?",[10,639,640,641,643],{},"Age by itself does not set the fee. Appliance choice, treatment length, case\ncomplexity, and insurance benefits shape the total. Read our guide to\n",[27,642,173],{"href":172},"\nfor the main factors included in an estimate.",[96,645,647],{"id":646},"do-i-need-a-dentists-referral","Do I need a dentist's referral?",[10,649,650],{},"No referral is required to schedule an orthodontic evaluation with Dr.\nMendivil Orthodontics. Your dentist's records may still be useful when care\nneeds to be coordinated.",[20,652,654],{"id":653},"adult-orthodontics-in-bakersfield","Adult orthodontics in Bakersfield",[10,656,657],{},"Dr. Guy Mendivil has practiced orthodontics in Bakersfield since 1989 and\noffers traditional braces, aesthetic braces, lingual braces, and Invisalign.\nTreatment takes place in private rooms, and bilingual staff are available in\nEnglish and Spanish.",[10,659,292],{},[10,661,662,664],{},[27,663,298],{"href":297}," to have your teeth, bite, gum health,\nand previous dental work evaluated before choosing an appliance.",{"title":301,"searchDepth":302,"depth":302,"links":666},[667,668,669,675,676,677,678,679,680,687],{"id":362,"depth":302,"text":363},{"id":398,"depth":302,"text":399},{"id":411,"depth":302,"text":412,"children":670},[671,672,673,674],{"id":418,"depth":309,"text":419},{"id":430,"depth":309,"text":431},{"id":442,"depth":309,"text":443},{"id":457,"depth":309,"text":197},{"id":468,"depth":302,"text":469},{"id":512,"depth":302,"text":513},{"id":534,"depth":302,"text":535},{"id":585,"depth":302,"text":586},{"id":601,"depth":302,"text":602},{"id":611,"depth":302,"text":612,"children":681},[682,683,684,685,686],{"id":615,"depth":309,"text":616},{"id":622,"depth":309,"text":623},{"id":629,"depth":309,"text":630},{"id":636,"depth":309,"text":637},{"id":646,"depth":309,"text":647},{"id":653,"depth":302,"text":654},"\u002Fservices\u002Flady-dental-chair.jpg","Adult patient seated in a dental treatment chair","2026-08-27","Learn how adult braces and Invisalign work, which options are available, and what Bakersfield patients should expect before starting treatment.",{},"\u002Fblog\u002Fadult-braces-bakersfield",{"title":341,"description":691},"blog\u002Fadult-braces-bakersfield",[697],"Adult orthodontics","oKM7GieF9pxd3XCfMDEGEdzTEq2ZWuYzFjcL5bVga8M",{"id":700,"title":701,"body":702,"cover":1005,"coverAlt":1006,"coverOrientation":326,"date":1007,"description":1008,"extension":329,"meta":1009,"navigation":331,"path":157,"seo":1010,"stem":1011,"tags":1012,"__hash__":1014},"blog\u002Fblog\u002Fhow-long-do-braces-take-bakersfield.md","How long do braces take? A Bakersfield guide",{"type":7,"value":703,"toc":978},[704,710,713,716,720,723,726,733,737,740,744,747,751,754,758,766,770,773,778,782,785,792,796,799,803,806,810,813,817,820,824,827,830,834,837,875,878,882,885,905,908,912,915,918,922,926,929,933,939,943,946,950,953,957,960,964,967,970],[10,705,706,707,709],{},"Most full braces cases take about ",[141,708,143],{},", but that range is only a\nstarting point. A patient who needs a few teeth aligned may finish sooner. A\npatient with a complex bite, impacted teeth, or jaw-growth concerns may need\nmore time.",[10,711,712],{},"The useful answer is not the fastest number someone can quote online. It is an\nestimate based on your teeth, your bite, and the movements needed to bring the\ntwo together. That estimate becomes much clearer after an orthodontic exam and\ndiagnostic records.",[10,714,715],{},"Here is what Bakersfield patients and parents should know about the braces\ntimeline, from the first consultation through retainers.",[20,717,719],{"id":718},"why-does-braces-treatment-take-18-to-30-months","Why does braces treatment take 18 to 30 months?",[10,721,722],{},"Braces move teeth through bone in a controlled sequence. The goal is not only\nto make the front teeth look straighter. The roots need to move with the\ncrowns, the upper and lower teeth need to fit together, and each step needs to\nleave room for the next one.",[10,724,725],{},"That is why two people who appear to have similar crowding can receive very\ndifferent estimates. One may need straightforward alignment. The other may\nalso need bite correction, space management, tooth rotation, or movement of\nteeth that have not erupted normally.",[10,727,728,729,732],{},"At Dr. Mendivil Orthodontics, ",[27,730,731],{"href":29},"traditional braces","\ntypically run 18 to 30 months, depending on bite complexity. Your consultation\nprovides a case-specific estimate rather than treating that range as a promise.",[20,734,736],{"id":735},"what-determines-how-long-braces-will-take","What determines how long braces will take?",[10,738,739],{},"Several parts of the diagnosis influence the schedule.",[96,741,743],{"id":742},"the-starting-position-of-the-teeth","The starting position of the teeth",[10,745,746],{},"Mild spacing or crowding generally requires fewer movements than severe\ncrowding, large rotations, or teeth that are far outside the dental arch. An\nimpacted tooth that has not erupted can add another stage to the plan.",[96,748,750],{"id":749},"how-the-bite-fits","How the bite fits",[10,752,753],{},"Straight front teeth are only part of the result. An overbite, underbite,\ncrossbite, open bite, or uneven contact between the upper and lower teeth may\nneed correction before treatment is complete. Bite correction often requires\nmore coordination than alignment alone.",[96,755,757],{"id":756},"growth-and-development","Growth and development",[10,759,760,761,765],{},"For children and teens, the timing of tooth eruption and jaw growth can shape\nthe plan. An early orthodontic checkup does not mean braces should begin\nimmediately. In many cases, monitoring growth and choosing the right starting\npoint is more useful than starting sooner. Our\n",[27,762,764],{"href":763},"\u002Fblog\u002Fdoes-my-child-need-braces-bakersfield","guide for Bakersfield parents","\nexplains why the first evaluation is recommended by age 7.",[96,767,769],{"id":768},"the-type-of-appliance","The type of appliance",[10,771,772],{},"Traditional metal braces, clear ceramic braces, and gold-finish braces all use\nbrackets and an archwire. Their treatment time depends on the bite, not the\ncolor or finish of the brackets.",[10,774,775,777],{},[27,776,443],{"href":36}," use a planned series of\nremovable trays. They can be appropriate for many patients, but they are not\nautomatically faster than braces. The diagnosis and the consistency of aligner\nwear both matter. The best comparison is the expected timeline for each option\nin your specific case.",[96,779,781],{"id":780},"treatment-cooperation","Treatment cooperation",[10,783,784],{},"Some parts of orthodontic treatment happen in the office. Others depend on\nwhat happens between visits. Wearing elastics as directed, keeping scheduled\nappointments, and reporting a loose bracket or broken wire promptly help the\nplanned sequence continue.",[10,786,352,787,791],{},[27,788,358],{"href":789,"rel":790},"https:\u002F\u002Faaoinfo.org\u002Ftreatments\u002Fbraces\u002F",[357],"\ndescribes successful braces treatment as a combination of pressure, time, and\ncooperation. Trying to create more pressure on your own does not make teeth\nmove safely or predictably.",[20,793,795],{"id":794},"what-happens-during-the-braces-timeline","What happens during the braces timeline?",[10,797,798],{},"Every case is individual, but treatment usually follows four broad stages.",[96,800,802],{"id":801},"_1-consultation-and-records","1. Consultation and records",[10,804,805],{},"The orthodontist examines how the teeth and jaws fit together and takes the\nrecords needed to plan treatment. At Dr. Mendivil Orthodontics, those records\nmay include panoramic and intraoral X-rays. This is when you discuss the\nrecommended appliance, estimated treatment time, total cost, and applicable\ninsurance benefits.",[96,807,809],{"id":808},"_2-bonding-and-early-alignment","2. Bonding and early alignment",[10,811,812],{},"Brackets are bonded to the teeth and the first archwire is placed. The initial\npart of treatment begins bringing crowded or spaced teeth into a more orderly\narch. Visible changes can happen during this stage, but a straighter-looking\nsmile does not mean the bite is finished.",[96,814,816],{"id":815},"_3-bite-correction-and-detail","3. Bite correction and detail",[10,818,819],{},"Later stages refine tooth positions and coordinate the upper and lower teeth.\nElastics may be prescribed for certain bite movements. Appointments are\ntypically scheduled every 4 to 8 weeks so the orthodontist can check progress\nand make the next planned adjustment.",[96,821,823],{"id":822},"_4-braces-removal-and-retention","4. Braces removal and retention",[10,825,826],{},"When the teeth and bite have reached their planned positions, the brackets are\nremoved and retainers are made. Retention is not an optional extra after\nactive treatment. Teeth naturally continue to shift over time, so retainers\nhold the result.",[10,828,829],{},"The AAO recommends wearing retainers according to your orthodontist's\ninstructions and notes that some degree of retainer wear is needed long term.\nDr. Mendivil typically has patients wear their retainers nightly after the\ninitial retention period.",[20,831,833],{"id":832},"what-can-make-braces-take-longer","What can make braces take longer?",[10,835,836],{},"A treatment estimate assumes that appointments and prescribed steps happen on\nschedule. Common reasons the finish date may move include:",[53,838,839,845,851,857,863,869],{},[56,840,841,844],{},[141,842,843],{},"Missed or widely delayed appointments."," Adjustments and progress checks\ncannot happen when visits are skipped.",[56,846,847,850],{},[141,848,849],{},"Loose brackets or damaged wires."," A broken appliance may stop applying\nthe intended force until it is repaired.",[56,852,853,856],{},[141,854,855],{},"Inconsistent elastic wear."," Elastics only produce the planned movement\nwhen they are worn according to the instructions given.",[56,858,859,862],{},[141,860,861],{},"Oral-health problems."," Cavities or gum inflammation may need attention\nfrom a dentist before certain orthodontic steps can continue.",[56,864,865,868],{},[141,866,867],{},"Unexpected tooth response."," Teeth and supporting tissues do not respond\nidentically in every patient. The orthodontist may adjust the plan as the\nbite develops.",[56,870,871,874],{},[141,872,873],{},"A change in the treatment goal."," A patient and orthodontist may decide\nthat additional correction is worthwhile after reviewing progress.",[10,876,877],{},"These factors do not always create a major delay. The best approach is to call\nthe office when something changes rather than waiting until the next scheduled\nvisit.",[20,879,881],{"id":880},"can-i-do-anything-to-finish-braces-on-time","Can I do anything to finish braces on time?",[10,883,884],{},"You cannot control the biology of tooth movement, but you can avoid preventable\ninterruptions:",[210,886,887,890,893,896,899,902],{},[56,888,889],{},"Keep adjustment appointments and reschedule promptly when a conflict is\nunavoidable.",[56,891,892],{},"Wear elastics exactly as directed; do not add more or double up after\nmissing time.",[56,894,895],{},"Avoid foods that can bend wires or loosen brackets.",[56,897,898],{},"Brush and floss carefully around brackets, and continue routine dental\ncleanings.",[56,900,901],{},"Contact the orthodontic office when an appliance breaks or no longer feels\nright.",[56,903,904],{},"Follow retainer instructions after active treatment ends.",[10,906,907],{},"There is no safe at-home shortcut that replaces a professionally planned\nsequence of tooth movement. Consistency is more helpful than trying to make\nbraces work harder.",[20,909,911],{"id":910},"are-braces-faster-for-children-teens-or-adults","Are braces faster for children, teens, or adults?",[10,913,914],{},"Age alone does not determine the finish date. Children and teens may have\ngrowth that an orthodontist can use as part of treatment, while adults may\nhave restorations, gum considerations, or long-standing bite patterns to\ncoordinate. Adults can still be treated successfully with braces or clear\naligners.",[10,916,917],{},"The fairest comparison is between diagnoses, not birthdays. A straightforward\nadult case may take less time than a complex teen case. An examination is the\nonly reliable way to estimate either one.",[20,919,921],{"id":920},"common-questions-about-braces-treatment-time","Common questions about braces treatment time",[96,923,925],{"id":924},"can-braces-work-in-six-months","Can braces work in six months?",[10,927,928],{},"Some limited alignment cases can be shorter than full bite treatment, but\nsix months is not a realistic promise for every bite. Ask whether a short plan\naddresses only visible tooth alignment or also corrects how the upper and lower\nteeth fit together.",[96,930,932],{"id":931},"do-clear-or-gold-braces-take-longer-than-metal-braces","Do clear or gold braces take longer than metal braces?",[10,934,935,936,938],{},"Not simply because of their appearance. ",[27,937,190],{"href":189},"\nuse the same general bracket-and-wire approach. The bite and required tooth\nmovements are the main drivers of treatment time.",[96,940,942],{"id":941},"is-invisalign-faster-than-braces","Is Invisalign faster than braces?",[10,944,945],{},"Neither option is universally faster. Invisalign may be efficient for an\nappropriate case when aligners are worn consistently. Fixed braces may give\nthe orthodontist better control for other movements. Your consultation should\ncompare both options against the same treatment goal.",[96,947,949],{"id":948},"how-often-are-braces-adjusted","How often are braces adjusted?",[10,951,952],{},"Appointments at Dr. Mendivil Orthodontics are generally scheduled every 4 to 8\nweeks. The exact interval can change during treatment based on what the teeth\nneed next.",[96,954,956],{"id":955},"does-the-estimate-include-retainers","Does the estimate include retainers?",[10,958,959],{},"The 18-to-30-month range refers to active treatment with braces. Retainers\nbegin after the brackets come off and are used long term to help preserve the\nresult.",[20,961,963],{"id":962},"get-a-timeline-for-your-own-bite","Get a timeline for your own bite",[10,965,966],{},"An online range can help you plan, but it cannot show which teeth need to move\nor how your bite should finish. Dr. Guy Mendivil has practiced orthodontics in\nBakersfield since 1989 and evaluates each case before recommending an\nappliance or timeline.",[10,968,969],{},"The office is located at 11901 Bolthouse Dr Suite 200, serving Seven Oaks,\nStockdale, and greater Bakersfield. Treatment takes place in private rooms,\nand bilingual staff are available in English and Spanish.",[10,971,972,974,975,977],{},[27,973,298],{"href":297}," to receive an individual treatment\nestimate. If you are also planning for the cost, read our guide to\n",[27,976,173],{"href":172},"\nbefore your visit.",{"title":301,"searchDepth":302,"depth":302,"links":979},[980,981,988,994,995,996,997,1004],{"id":718,"depth":302,"text":719},{"id":735,"depth":302,"text":736,"children":982},[983,984,985,986,987],{"id":742,"depth":309,"text":743},{"id":749,"depth":309,"text":750},{"id":756,"depth":309,"text":757},{"id":768,"depth":309,"text":769},{"id":780,"depth":309,"text":781},{"id":794,"depth":302,"text":795,"children":989},[990,991,992,993],{"id":801,"depth":309,"text":802},{"id":808,"depth":309,"text":809},{"id":815,"depth":309,"text":816},{"id":822,"depth":309,"text":823},{"id":832,"depth":302,"text":833},{"id":880,"depth":302,"text":881},{"id":910,"depth":302,"text":911},{"id":920,"depth":302,"text":921,"children":998},[999,1000,1001,1002,1003],{"id":924,"depth":309,"text":925},{"id":931,"depth":309,"text":932},{"id":941,"depth":309,"text":942},{"id":948,"depth":309,"text":949},{"id":955,"depth":309,"text":956},{"id":962,"depth":302,"text":963},"\u002Fservices\u002Fsmiling-with-braces-2.jpg","Close-up of a patient smiling with traditional braces","2026-08-26","Learn how long braces usually take, what can change the timeline, and how Bakersfield patients can help keep orthodontic treatment on schedule.",{},{"title":701,"description":1008},"blog\u002Fhow-long-do-braces-take-bakersfield",[1013],"Treatment timeline","mQSuV6QKtVPT8vsmLZvehk-jq4eiHPzNy3A66g471t0",{"id":1016,"title":1017,"body":1018,"cover":1325,"coverAlt":1326,"coverOrientation":326,"date":1327,"description":1328,"extension":329,"meta":1329,"navigation":331,"path":763,"seo":1330,"stem":1331,"tags":1332,"__hash__":1334},"blog\u002Fblog\u002Fdoes-my-child-need-braces-bakersfield.md","Does my child need braces? A Bakersfield parent's guide",{"type":7,"value":1019,"toc":1309},[1020,1023,1030,1033,1037,1040,1102,1110,1114,1117,1120,1140,1143,1147,1150,1161,1164,1168,1171,1191,1197,1201,1204,1207,1213,1217,1220,1234,1237,1240,1244,1247,1256,1266,1270,1274,1277,1281,1284,1288,1291,1295,1298,1302],[10,1021,1022],{},"Crowded teeth, a noticeable overbite, or a tooth coming in at an unusual angle\nmay lead you to wonder whether your child needs braces. Those signs are worth\nchecking, but they do not tell you the full answer. An orthodontist needs to\nlook at how the teeth, bite, and jaws are developing before recommending\ntreatment.",[10,1024,1025,1026,1029],{},"The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their\nfirst orthodontic checkup ",[141,1027,1028],{},"no later than age 7",". That does not mean every\nseven-year-old needs braces. For many children, the right plan is simply to\nmonitor growth and wait for the appropriate time.",[10,1031,1032],{},"Here is what Bakersfield parents can look for, why the timing of an evaluation\nmatters, and what happens after that first visit.",[20,1034,1036],{"id":1035},"what-are-the-signs-that-my-child-may-need-braces","What are the signs that my child may need braces?",[10,1038,1039],{},"You do not need to diagnose a bite problem at home. Still, certain changes can\nbe a useful reason to schedule an orthodontic evaluation:",[53,1041,1042,1048,1054,1060,1066,1072,1078,1084,1090,1096],{},[56,1043,1044,1047],{},[141,1045,1046],{},"Crowded or overlapping teeth."," Permanent teeth may not have enough room\nto come in along a smooth arch.",[56,1049,1050,1053],{},[141,1051,1052],{},"Large spaces between teeth."," Some spacing is normal while children are\ngrowing, but unusual or persistent gaps may need to be evaluated.",[56,1055,1056,1059],{},[141,1057,1058],{},"An underbite."," The lower front teeth sit in front of the upper front\nteeth when your child closes their mouth.",[56,1061,1062,1065],{},[141,1063,1064],{},"Upper front teeth that project far forward."," This is commonly called an\noverbite, although an orthodontist may describe the forward distance as\noverjet.",[56,1067,1068,1071],{},[141,1069,1070],{},"A crossbite."," One or more upper teeth close inside the lower teeth rather\nthan outside them.",[56,1073,1074,1077],{},[141,1075,1076],{},"An open bite."," The front teeth do not touch when the back teeth are\ntogether.",[56,1079,1080,1083],{},[141,1081,1082],{},"A jaw that shifts to one side."," Your child may move the lower jaw left or\nright to find a comfortable way to close.",[56,1085,1086,1089],{},[141,1087,1088],{},"Teeth that erupt out of position."," A permanent tooth may appear unusually\nhigh, low, forward, or behind neighboring teeth.",[56,1091,1092,1095],{},[141,1093,1094],{},"Baby teeth that are lost unusually early, late, or unevenly."," The order\nand timing of tooth loss can affect how permanent teeth enter the mouth.",[56,1097,1098,1101],{},[141,1099,1100],{},"A thumb, finger, or pacifier habit that is changing the bite."," Persistent\npressure can influence tooth position and jaw development.",[10,1103,1104,1105,1109],{},"These signs do not automatically mean your child needs braces now. They mean\nan orthodontist should check what is visible and what may be developing below\nthe surface. The\n",[27,1106,358],{"href":1107,"rel":1108},"https:\u002F\u002Faaoinfo.org\u002Fwhats-trending\u002Fwhen-should-your-child-see-an-orthodontist\u002F",[357],"\nidentifies crowding, spacing, underbites, crossbites, jaw shifts, and teeth\nthat do not meet normally among the concerns that can benefit from an early\nevaluation.",[20,1111,1113],{"id":1112},"why-should-a-child-see-an-orthodontist-by-age-7","Why should a child see an orthodontist by age 7?",[10,1115,1116],{},"Around age 7, most children have a mix of baby and permanent teeth. The first\nadult molars and front teeth often provide enough information for an\northodontist to evaluate the developing bite, the room available for other\npermanent teeth, and the relationship between the upper and lower jaws.",[10,1118,1119],{},"This is a checkup, not a deadline for starting braces. An early look gives the\northodontist three possible paths:",[210,1121,1122,1128,1134],{},[56,1123,1124,1127],{},[141,1125,1126],{},"No treatment is needed."," The teeth and jaws are developing normally.",[56,1129,1130,1133],{},[141,1131,1132],{},"Growth should be monitored."," Short observation visits allow the\northodontist to follow tooth eruption and choose the right time, if\ntreatment becomes necessary.",[56,1135,1136,1139],{},[141,1137,1138],{},"A specific problem may benefit from early treatment."," A smaller group of\nchildren has a developing bite or eruption problem that is easier to\naddress while the jaws are still growing.",[10,1141,1142],{},"The AAO notes that only a few orthodontic problems need correction around age\n7. In many cases, the useful result of the visit is knowing that it is safe to\nwait.",[20,1144,1146],{"id":1145},"should-i-wait-until-all-the-baby-teeth-are-gone","Should I wait until all the baby teeth are gone?",[10,1148,1149],{},"Not for the first evaluation. Waiting until every permanent tooth has arrived\ncan remove the opportunity to guide growth or make space at a useful stage of\ndevelopment.",[10,1151,1152,1153,1156,1157,1160],{},"That does not mean treatment should begin while baby teeth are present. The\northodontist may recommend observation until more permanent teeth erupt. The\nimportant distinction is between ",[141,1154,1155],{},"checking early"," and ",[141,1158,1159],{},"treating early",".\nThey are not the same thing.",[10,1162,1163],{},"If your child is already older than 7 and has never had an orthodontic\nevaluation, it is not too late. Children develop at different rates, and many\nbegin treatment later in childhood or during their teenage years.",[20,1165,1167],{"id":1166},"when-should-a-child-be-seen-before-age-7","When should a child be seen before age 7?",[10,1169,1170],{},"You do not need to wait for a seventh birthday when something looks or feels\nwrong. Consider an earlier evaluation if you notice:",[53,1172,1173,1176,1179,1182,1185,1188],{},[56,1174,1175],{},"A pronounced underbite or crossbite.",[56,1177,1178],{},"The jaw shifting noticeably when your child closes.",[56,1180,1181],{},"A permanent tooth appearing far outside the usual position.",[56,1183,1184],{},"A baby tooth lost because of injury or much earlier than expected.",[56,1186,1187],{},"Difficulty biting or chewing that appears related to how the teeth meet.",[56,1189,1190],{},"A persistent oral habit that is visibly changing the teeth or bite.",[10,1192,1193,1194,1196],{},"Your child's general dentist can help identify developing concerns, but you do\nnot need a dental referral to schedule an orthodontic checkup. Our guide to\n",[27,1195,281],{"href":280},"\nexplains how the two professionals work together.",[20,1198,1200],{"id":1199},"does-an-early-checkup-mean-two-phases-of-braces","Does an early checkup mean two phases of braces?",[10,1202,1203],{},"No. Two-phase treatment is reserved for cases in which doing something during\ngrowth can address a specific problem, followed by a later phase after more\npermanent teeth have erupted. It is not the default plan for every child.",[10,1205,1206],{},"When early treatment is appropriate, its purpose may be to guide jaw growth,\ncorrect a crossbite, improve the way the jaws fit together, or create room for\npermanent teeth. The second phase, if needed, typically focuses on final tooth\nalignment and bite detail.",[10,1208,1209,1210,1212],{},"Many children are better served by one well-timed phase of\n",[27,1211,731],{"href":29}," or another orthodontic option.\nOthers may only need observation. The decision should follow the diagnosis,\nnot the child's birthday alone.",[20,1214,1216],{"id":1215},"what-happens-at-a-childs-first-orthodontic-visit","What happens at a child's first orthodontic visit?",[10,1218,1219],{},"The first visit is designed to answer a few practical questions:",[53,1221,1222,1225,1228,1231],{},[56,1223,1224],{},"Are the teeth and jaws developing normally?",[56,1226,1227],{},"Is there a bite, spacing, crowding, or eruption concern?",[56,1229,1230],{},"Does anything need attention now, or is observation appropriate?",[56,1232,1233],{},"If treatment is likely later, what signs will determine the right time?",[10,1235,1236],{},"The orthodontist examines the teeth and how the bite comes together. They may\nalso review existing dental images or recommend imaging when it is needed to\nsee permanent teeth that have not erupted.",[10,1238,1239],{},"At Dr. Mendivil Orthodontics, parents can discuss the findings directly with\nDr. Guy Mendivil, an orthodontic specialist who has practiced in Bakersfield\nsince 1989. The office uses private treatment rooms, and bilingual staff are\navailable in English and Spanish. The goal of the visit is a clear explanation\nof what is happening and what, if anything, should happen next.",[20,1241,1243],{"id":1242},"what-if-my-child-needs-treatment","What if my child needs treatment?",[10,1245,1246],{},"The recommended appliance depends on the bite, the child's stage of growth,\nand the movements the orthodontist needs to make. Options may include fixed\nbraces, a growth-guidance appliance, or clear aligners for an appropriate and\nresponsible older child or teen.",[10,1248,1249,1250,1252,1253,1255],{},"Dr. Mendivil provides ",[27,1251,731],{"href":29},", aesthetic\nbraces, and ",[27,1254,128],{"href":127},". A consultation\nshould explain why a particular option fits the diagnosis rather than starting\nwith a product and working backward.",[10,1257,1258,1259,1261,1262,1265],{},"If treatment is recommended, ask about the expected timeline, appointment\nschedule, oral-hygiene responsibilities, retainers, total cost, and applicable\ninsurance benefits. Our guides to\n",[27,1260,173],{"href":172},"\nand ",[27,1263,1264],{"href":177},"monthly payment plans"," can\nhelp you prepare for that conversation.",[20,1267,1269],{"id":1268},"common-questions-from-bakersfield-parents","Common questions from Bakersfield parents",[96,1271,1273],{"id":1272},"can-i-tell-at-home-whether-my-child-definitely-needs-braces","Can I tell at home whether my child definitely needs braces?",[10,1275,1276],{},"No. You may be able to see crowding, spacing, or a bite that does not line up,\nbut other concerns are less obvious. An orthodontic exam is needed to determine\nwhether treatment is necessary and when it should begin.",[96,1278,1280],{"id":1279},"is-age-7-too-young-for-braces","Is age 7 too young for braces?",[10,1282,1283],{},"Age 7 is the recommended time for a first checkup, not a universal starting\nage for braces. Most children evaluated at that age do not immediately begin a\nfull course of braces.",[96,1285,1287],{"id":1286},"what-if-my-childs-teeth-look-straight","What if my child's teeth look straight?",[10,1289,1290],{},"Straight-looking front teeth do not always mean the bite and jaw relationship\nare developing normally. An orthodontist also checks how the upper and lower\nteeth meet and whether permanent teeth have enough room to erupt.",[96,1292,1294],{"id":1293},"do-we-need-a-referral-from-our-dentist","Do we need a referral from our dentist?",[10,1296,1297],{},"No referral is required to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Mendivil\nOrthodontics. Your child's dentist remains important for cleanings, cavity\nprevention, and general oral health before and during orthodontic treatment.",[96,1299,1301],{"id":1300},"where-can-i-schedule-a-childs-orthodontic-checkup-in-bakersfield","Where can I schedule a child's orthodontic checkup in Bakersfield?",[10,1303,1304,1305,1308],{},"Dr. Mendivil Orthodontics is located at 11901 Bolthouse Dr Suite 200, serving\nfamilies in Seven Oaks, Stockdale, and greater Bakersfield. You can\n",[27,1306,1307],{"href":297},"schedule a free consultation"," to have your child's teeth, bite,\nand stage of development evaluated.",{"title":301,"searchDepth":302,"depth":302,"links":1310},[1311,1312,1313,1314,1315,1316,1317,1318],{"id":1035,"depth":302,"text":1036},{"id":1112,"depth":302,"text":1113},{"id":1145,"depth":302,"text":1146},{"id":1166,"depth":302,"text":1167},{"id":1199,"depth":302,"text":1200},{"id":1215,"depth":302,"text":1216},{"id":1242,"depth":302,"text":1243},{"id":1268,"depth":302,"text":1269,"children":1319},[1320,1321,1322,1323,1324],{"id":1272,"depth":309,"text":1273},{"id":1279,"depth":309,"text":1280},{"id":1286,"depth":309,"text":1287},{"id":1293,"depth":309,"text":1294},{"id":1300,"depth":309,"text":1301},"\u002Fservices\u002Fsmiling-teen-braces.jpg","Teen patient smiling with traditional braces","2026-08-19","Learn the signs your child may need braces, why an orthodontic checkup is recommended by age 7, and what Bakersfield parents can expect at the first visit.",{},{"title":1017,"description":1328},"blog\u002Fdoes-my-child-need-braces-bakersfield",[1333],"Children's orthodontics","n431Bij5dIIup9NpsQPkeqlKweTcISGIUYhjY3OjA4I",1788372294927]