How braces improve your smile
Braces straighten teeth while creating a healthy foundation for lifelong oral health. Misaligned teeth and bite issues can lead to speech difficulties, trouble chewing, and an increased risk of cavities.
At Sweet Tooth Pediatric & General Dentistry, we provide Lompoc dental braces for every member of your family to help them achieve a straighter, healthier smile. It’s never too late to achieve a straighter smile and improve your oral health. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
Our Approach to Braces
- NWe assess teeth and jaw development to determine the best time for braces.
- NWe offer different types of braces, including traditional metal braces and clear options, based on your child’s needs.
- NWe guide families every step of the way, ensuring comfort and effective treatment.
Family-Friendly Environment
We create a welcoming space where all ages feel comfortable throughout their orthodontic journey.
Compassionate Team
Our team works closely with families to ensure a smooth and stress-free orthodontic experience.
Affordable Care
We accept Medi-Cal/Denti-Cal for all ages and offer flexible payment options to make braces accessible.
Expert Guidance
We equip you with the knowledge and resources needed to ensure excellent results and an enjoyable experience.
Why Braces?
Braces are designed to gradually move teeth into proper alignment, improving both function and appearance. Common reasons you may need braces include:
- Crowding – When there isn’t enough space for teeth to grow in properly.
- Overbites and underbites – Jaw misalignments that can affect speech and chewing.
- Gaps between teeth – Spaces that may lead to dental complications over time.
- Crossbites and open bites – Issues that can impact jaw development and function.
Whether you’re looking to correct bite issues, close gaps, or enhance your confidence, we provide customized orthodontic solutions for patients of all ages.
Early Orthodontic Care
Addressing alignment concerns early in life can help prevent more complex dental concerns down the road.
- Increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease – Crooked teeth are harder to clean, leading to plaque buildup.
- Jaw pain and TMJ issues – Bite misalignment can cause discomfort and strain on the jaw.
- Speech and chewing difficulties – Poor alignment may interfere with speech development and proper chewing.
- Increased need for complex treatment later – Delaying braces may result in the need for extractions or more invasive orthodontic treatments in the future.
No matter your age, now is the best time to improve your dental health and future!
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the right time to start braces?
Orthodontic treatment can begin at nearly any age — it all depends on your smile goals and dental development. While many kids and teens start between ages 9–14, we also see adults ready to straighten their teeth at any stage of life. For younger children, we may recommend an early orthodontic evaluation around age 7 to spot potential issues before they become more complex.
Will braces be painful?
You might feel some tenderness after braces are first placed or adjusted — that’s totally normal. The good news? It usually only lasts a few days. We’ll walk you through how to stay comfortable and what to expect so there are no surprises.
How long does treatment usually take?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. Most people wear braces between 12–24 months, but your treatment time depends on your unique bite, alignment, and goals. We’ll give you a clear, personalized estimate during your consultation.
What foods should I avoid with braces?
Braces can handle a lot — but sticky, chewy, and crunchy foods can cause damage that slows down treatment. That means things like popcorn, caramel, gum, ice, nuts, and even crunchy raw veggies should be limited or avoided altogether. We’ll give you a full list to keep on hand, plus tips for making meals easier (and less frustrating) at home.
How do I keep my braces clean?
Good hygiene is key during orthodontic treatment. Braces can trap food and plaque, so brushing and flossing with extra care is essential. We’ll show you the best techniques, recommend tools that make things easier, and help you keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout your smile journey.
Our patients are the sweetest
The staff are always welcoming and friendly, they care for their patients and make you feel like family!
— Mariana P.
Sweet Tooth Pediatric has been amazing! Dr. Nik and her staff are so great with the kids! Appointments are on time and efficient. I would absolutely recommend them to everyone!
— Brittney H.
Family friendly environment. The Staff is amazing. My daughter got a cavity fixed and a few extractions and it was a good experience. Dr. Nik and her assistant made my daughter feel comfortable.
— YC.
Denti-Cal Accepted
Family-friendly payment options
At Sweet Tooth Pediatric & General Dentistry, everyone deserves a confident, healthy smile. We proudly accept Medi-Cal/Denti-Cal for all ages and offer flexible payment options to ensure orthodontic care is accessible to all families.
Helping your loved ones achieve a straight, healthy smile is our priority. Call us today at (805) 736-6571 to schedule a consultation and start their journey to a beautiful smile!
Our Office
Phone
Hours
Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm
Sat - Sun: Closed
Scheduling is Simple
Send a message or give us a call at (805) 736-6571.