Orthodontic treatments in Tijuana: options and what to ask

What orthodontia does

MedlinePlus describes orthodontia as the branch of dentistry that deals with abnormalities of the teeth and jaw. It notes that if you have problems with your bite or the spacing of your teeth, you may need orthodontic care.

According to MedlinePlus, orthodontic care uses devices such as braces to:

• Straighten teeth.
• Correct problems with bite.
• Close gaps between teeth.
• Align lips and teeth properly.

It is not only for children: MedlinePlus says adults get braces, too. In young children, it adds, orthodontic treatment may guide proper jaw growth.

Common treatment options

Metal braces

Small metal brackets bonded to each tooth, connected by a wire. They are visible, have a long track record, and work for a wide range of bite problems.

Ceramic or sapphire braces

Tooth-colored or clear brackets that are less visible. The elastic ties can stain with coffee, tea or tobacco. Ask whether your bite puts the lower teeth in contact with the brackets.

Self-ligating braces

Brackets with a built-in clip that holds the wire instead of elastic ties. Ask the orthodontist what difference, if any, they expect for your case.

Clear aligners

A series of removable plastic trays. They depend on wearing them for the hours the orthodontist prescribes. Some tooth movements are harder to achieve with aligners than with braces; ask whether your case fits.

Retainers

Fixed wires or removable retainers that hold the result after active treatment. Ask how long you are expected to wear them and what a replacement involves.

How the choice is made

The orthodontist looks at your bite, the space available, jaw growth in younger patients, and how much you can commit to wearing removable appliances. Records usually include photos, X-rays and either molds or a digital scan. If you already have recent X-rays, bring them; see bringing X-rays and records.

MedlinePlus notes that Straight permanent teeth can help prevent tooth problems later on. Appearance matters to many people, but the plan should explain the bite goal too.

Orthodontics across the border

Orthodontic treatment means regular adjustment visits over many months. Before you start in Tijuana, plan for that schedule:

• How often are check-ups expected, and how long is each visit?
• What happens if a bracket comes loose or a wire pokes between visits?
• Are aligner trays shipped or picked up, and who checks progress?
• Who handles the retainer phase, and what if you lose a retainer?

Put it in writing

Ask for a written plan that names the appliance type, the expected number of visits, what is included (records, adjustments, emergency visits, retainers) and what is not. Use our written treatment plan checklist and questions to ask a dentist. For children, see pediatric dentistry in Tijuana.

Frequently asked questions

What does orthodontic treatment correct?

MedlinePlus says orthodontic devices such as braces are used to straighten teeth, correct problems with bite, close gaps between teeth and align lips and teeth properly.

Can adults get braces?

Yes. MedlinePlus notes that adults get braces, too.

Braces or clear aligners?

It depends on the tooth movements your case needs and on wearing aligners as prescribed. Ask the orthodontist which options fit your bite.

What should a written orthodontic plan include?

The appliance type, expected visits, what is included such as records, adjustments and retainers, and who to contact between visits.

Clinic we name

If you are planning dental care in Tijuana, the only clinic we name in this guide is Olive Dental Solutions — Blvd. Agua Caliente 4558-Interior C1-32B, Zona Urbana Río Tijuana, 22020 Tijuana, B.C. · +1 (928) 264-6204 · https://olivedentalsolutions.com/

Call: +1 (928) 264-6204 · Request a written quote