Orthodontic care is the specialized field of dentistry that corrects misaligned teeth and jaws to improve both function and appearance.
At our practice in Rancho Cucamonga, Alta Loma Dental Care uses modern braces and clear aligners to create healthier, straighter smiles for kids, teens, and adults from Alta Loma, Etiwanda, and surrounding neighborhoods.
The best part is that today’s options are more comfortable, faster, and often more discreet than ever before. Whether you’re curious about traditional braces or nearly invisible aligners, the process is straightforward when you have clear guidance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what to expect, how to care for your braces or aligners day-to-day, and how we make the entire experience stress-free right here in Rancho Cucamonga. Ready to see how easy it can be to get the smile you’ve always wanted?
What Is Orthodontic Care—and Do You Need It?
Orthodontic care fixes crooked teeth and misaligned jaws. It makes your smile look better and helps your teeth work right. Good orthodontic treatment can also make brushing easier and lower your risk of cavities, gum problems, and jaw pain, according to the American Dental Association.
You may need orthodontic care if you have:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Spaces between teeth
- An overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite
- Trouble chewing or speaking clearly
- Frequent jaw pain or headaches
The ADA suggests every child see an orthodontist by age 7. Early checks help Dr. Sid Lee catch small problems before they grow bigger. But treatment isn’t just for kids—many adults in their 30s, 40s, and older come to Alta Loma Dental Care to finally get the straight, confident smile they’ve always wanted.
Traditional Braces or Clear Aligners: Which One Fits Your Life?
Deciding between braces and clear aligners is a big step, and the right choice depends on your teeth, your daily routine, and what feels comfortable for you. At Alta Loma Dental Care, Dr. Sid Lee will examine your smile and talk through both options so you can pick what works best.
How Traditional Braces Work
Modern metal braces are smaller and more comfortable than the ones you may remember. Tiny brackets are glued to each tooth and connected by a thin wire. Every few weeks we adjust the wire at our office, gently moving your teeth into place.
The Cleveland Clinic says traditional braces are still the top choice for tougher cases—severe crowding, large gaps, or bite problems that need strong, steady correction.
How Clear Aligners Work
Clear aligners are smooth, plastic trays custom-made for your teeth. You wear each set almost all day and switch to a new one every 1–2 weeks. They are nearly invisible and you can take them out to eat, brush, and floss.
The American Dental Association explains that clear aligners work very well for mild to moderate spacing, crowding, and some bite issues—especially when patients wear them as directed.
Here’s an easy side-by-side look:
Quick Braces vs. Clear Aligners Comparison
| Feature | Traditional Braces | Clear Aligners |
|---|---|---|
| Look | Visible brackets and wires | Almost invisible |
| Removable | No | Yes |
| Best for | Complex or severe cases | Mild to moderate cases |
| Food rules | Skip sticky or hard foods | No rules (take them out to eat) |
| Cleaning | Needs special tools | Brush and floss normally |
| Office visits | Every 4–8 weeks | Every 6–10 weeks |
At Alta Loma Dental Care in Rancho Cucamonga, we offer both traditional braces and clear aligners. We’ll help you choose the option that fits your smile goals and your busy life.
How to Take Care of Your Traditional Braces Every Day
Good daily care helps your braces work faster and keeps your teeth and gums healthy. At Alta Loma Dental Care, we show every patient this simple routine so you feel confident from day one.
- Brush well – Brush after every meal with a soft toothbrush. Angle the brush to clean around brackets and wires. Use fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss every day – Use floss threaders or a water flosser to get between teeth and under wires.
- Foods to skip – Avoid sticky foods (gum, caramel), hard foods (nuts, ice), and crunchy snacks (popcorn) that can damage braces.
- Fix small problems fast – If a wire pokes or a bracket loosens, use orthodontic wax or call us right away.
We send every braces patient home with a free care kit and a quick in-person lesson. You’ll leave knowing exactly what to do—and we’re always just a call away if questions come up.
How to Care for Your Clear Aligners Every Day
Clear aligners are easy and comfortable, but wearing them the right way every day is what gives you the best results. At Alta Loma Dental Care, Dr. Sid Lee teaches this simple routine so you can feel confident and keep your treatment on track.
Wear them almost all day
- Keep aligners in for 20–22 hours every day (this follows American Dental Association and manufacturer guidelines).
- Take them out only to eat, drink anything except water, or brush and floss.
Keep aligners clean
- Rinse them with cool water every time you remove them.
- Gently brush them with a soft toothbrush and cool water (never hot water—it can warp the plastic).
- Soak them once a day in a retainer cleaner or mild denture tablet.
- Skip regular toothpaste—it can scratch the clear plastic.
Switching to new trays
- Change to the next tray on schedule, usually every 1–2 weeks.
- If you have attachments (small tooth-colored bumps), brush them gently.
- Right after putting in a new tray, chew on the “chewies” we give you for 5–10 minutes to help the tray fit snugly.
Eating, drinking, and storing
- Always take aligners out before meals or snacks.
- Drink only plain water while wearing them—colored or hot drinks can stain or damage them.
- When they’re out, keep them in the protective case. Never wrap them in a napkin!
Lost or broken tray?
Call us right away. We can usually fix the problem quickly and keep your progress going.
Our busy parents and professionals tell us this routine feels completely normal after just a week or two. You’ve got this!
Your Orthodontic Treatment Journey at Alta Loma Dental Care
Your Free Consultation
Your smile journey starts with a no-cost visit to our office at 7283 Carnelian Street, right in the heart of Rancho Cucamonga’s Alta Loma neighborhood. Dr. Sid Lee will take digital scans, X-rays, and photos to create a treatment plan made just for you.
How Long Will It Take?
Most patients follow these general timelines from the Cleveland Clinic:
- Mild to moderate cases: 12–18 months
- More complex cases: 18–36 months
Regular Check-Ups
You’ll visit us every 4–10 weeks for adjustments or new aligners. These quick appointments keep everything moving smoothly.
Handling Soreness
A little tenderness after adjustments is normal and usually fades in a few days. Eating soft foods helps a lot. We’ll always guide you on safe, comfortable ways to manage any discomfort—please follow the specific recommendations Dr. Sid Lee gives you.
Moving to Retainers
Once your teeth are perfectly aligned, you’ll switch to retainers. You’ll wear them full-time at first, then usually just at night. The American Dental Association stresses that wearing your retainers as directed—for life—is the key to keeping your beautiful straight smile forever.
We’re here for you every step of the way. From your first appointment to the day you see your final results, our Alta Loma Dental Care team makes sure you feel supported and informed. Families across Rancho Cucamonga tell us the time flies—and the confidence they gain lasts forever.
Benefits of Investing in Orthodontic Care
A straighter smile offers far more than cosmetics:
- Better bite function and easier chewing
- Reduced risk of tooth wear, decay, and gum disease
- Improved speech and confidence
- Lower chance of jaw pain or TMJ disorders (Mayo Clinic)
One of our teen patients from Etiwanda gained the confidence to try out for school theater after finishing treatment. An adult patient from Upland told us, “I finally feel comfortable smiling in work meetings.” Stories like these are why we love what we do at Alta Loma Dental Care.
Conclusion
Straightening your smile—or your child’s—is one of the most rewarding investments you can make in long-term health and confidence. With today’s comfortable, effective options and the step-by-step guidance above, achieving beautiful results has never been easier.
If you’re ready to take the next step, we’d love to welcome you to Alta Loma Dental Care. Contact us today at Call Us At (909) 987-6268 or visit https://altalomadentalcare.com/ to schedule your complimentary consultation with Dr. Sid Lee. We look forward to helping you smile brighter!
FAQs for Orthodontic Care
What is orthodontic care and how do I know if I need it?
Orthodontic care corrects misaligned teeth and jaws to improve appearance, bite, and oral health. Signs you may benefit include crowded teeth, gaps, overbite/underbite, jaw pain, or difficulty chewing. A complimentary exam with Dr. Sid Lee is the best way to find out.
How do I properly clean and care for traditional braces?
Brush after every meal, floss daily with threaders or a water flosser, avoid sticky and hard foods, and use orthodontic wax for irritation. We provide a full care kit and demonstration.
What are the daily instructions for wearing clear aligners?
Wear them 20–22 hours daily, remove only for eating/drinking (except water) and cleaning. Rinse and brush aligners gently, soak daily, and store in their case when out.
How much does orthodontic care cost at Alta Loma Dental Care in Rancho Cucamonga?
Costs vary based on treatment type and complexity, typically ranging from $3,500–$8,000. We offer transparent pricing, flexible payment plans, and insurance coordination. Schedule a free consultation for your personalized estimate.
How long does orthodontic treatment typically take?
Most patients complete treatment in 12–36 months, depending on case severity. Consistent wear and care help you finish on the shorter end.
Ready to schedule your child’s next step toward a healthy smile? Call Us At (909) 987-6268 or visit Alta Loma Dental Care Site to book online today. We can’t wait to welcome you!