Answers to common orthodontic questions
Let’s start with your first visit to Orthospaceship!
Los Angeles orthodontists Dr. F. Isaac Hakim and Dr. Chantal Hakim are leading orthodontists in the West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and surrounding areas. Offering premiere TMJ, Invisalign, Early and Adult Treatment, our team believes that every patient deserves quality innovative care and embody this concept from the ground up starting with their office. Read through the frequently asked questions below to get a better idea of how things work.
Contact us today to set up an appointment and get started with a consultation.
Is it required that my family dentist refer me for an appointment with the orthodontist?
No, a referral from your family dentist is not required to see us. While many patients are referred by their dentist, others choose to take the proactive step of scheduling an examination themselves. We welcome anyone who wants to explore how orthodontic care can enhance their health, confidence, and overall well-being.
Will my teeth straighten out as they grow?
No, teeth will not straighten on their own as you grow. In fact, the space available for front teeth often decreases over time, especially after the permanent molars come in. That’s why early evaluation is so important—to guide proper development and prevent crowding or misalignment before it becomes more complex.
How do I schedule an appointment for an initial exam?
Scheduling an initial exam is easy—just give us a call or send us an email, and our friendly team will be happy to assist you. During the call, we’ll gather some basic information to ensure we’re prepared for your visit. We look forward to helping you or your child take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile!
What will I learn from the free initial consultation?
During your free initial consultation, we’ll address five key questions to give you a clear understanding of your treatment options:
- Is there an orthodontic issue, what is it and what is its cause?
- What steps are needed to correct it?
- Will any teeth need to be removed?
- How long will treatment take?
- What will the cost be?
Our goal is to provide a comprehensive and transparent overview so you can make the best decision for your health and smile.
What will happen at the initial examination appointment?
At your initial examination, you and your child will meet with Dr. Hakim and our Treatment Coordinator, who will introduce you to our office and prepare for the exam. We’ll take photographs and other records as needed to ensure an accurate diagnosis. Dr. Hakim will then conduct a thorough yet comfortable examination, setting the stage for a personalized treatment plan.
Will I need to have teeth extracted for braces?
Dr. Hakim takes a conservative approach to treatment, and while extractions are sometimes necessary to achieve optimal results, we strive to avoid them whenever possible. Using advanced technology and careful planning, we’ve been able to successfully treat many cases without removing teeth. Our goal is to create straight, healthy teeth and a balanced, beautiful facial profile tailored to each patient.
How long will it take to complete treatment?
How much will braces cost? Are financing options available? How does my insurance work?
The cost of braces varies depending on your unique treatment needs, and we’ll provide an exact estimate during your initial examination. To make treatment more accessible, we offer flexible financing options, including 0% interest, in-house financing. Our team will also help you navigate your insurance policy, maximize your benefits, and handle claim filing to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.
How often will I have appointments?
Can I schedule all of my appointments after school?
Can I drop my child off for an appointment?
Do braces hurt?
Braces generally don’t “hurt,” though you may experience some soreness for a few days after adjustments as your teeth begin to move. We use a type of braces called self-ligating brackets, which allow for gentler, more precise tooth movements that can minimize discomfort compared to traditional braces. Over-the-counter pain medications like Advil, Motrin, or Tylenol can help if needed, but most of our patients feel little to no soreness after their visits. Remember, “It doesn’t have to hurt to work!” LEARN MORE
Can I return to school the day I receive my braces?
Do you give shots?
Do you use recycled braces?
Absolutely not! We take pride in providing our patients with brand-new, high-quality braces for every treatment. Our mission is to deliver care with respect, love, and the latest advancements in orthodontics, all within a professional, fun, and friendly environment tailored to your comfort and well-being.
Can I still play sports?
Do I need to see my family dentist while in braces?
Yes, it’s essential to continue seeing your family dentist for regular checkups while in braces. Maintaining oral health during treatment is critical, and your dentist will determine the best schedule for cleanings. We regularly communicate with your dentist throughout your treatment and can even coordinate wire removal for thorough cleanings, ensuring your smile stays healthy and bright.
Are there foods I cannot eat while I have braces?
How often should I brush my teeth while in braces?
We recommend brushing at least four times a day—after every meal and always before bed. This keeps food particles and plaque from building up around your braces. We’ll teach you the best way to floss with braces and, if needed, may prescribe a special fluoride to help keep your teeth strong and cavity-free during treatment.
What is an emergency appointment? How are those handled?
Can orthodontic correction occur while a child has baby teeth?
What is Phase One (early) treatment?
Will my child need full braces if he/she has Phase One treatment?
Will my child need an expander?
Is it too late to have braces if I am already an adult?
About half of our patients are adults. In fact, 25 percent of all orthodontic patients are adults. Health, happiness and self-esteem are vitally important to adults. No patient is “too old” to wear braces! LEARN MORE
Can I wear braces even though I have crowns and missing teeth?
Why should I choose an orthodontic specialist?
What sets the Orthospaceship apart in orthodontic treatment?
At the OrthoSpaceship we go far beyond just straightening teeth by taking a “Whole-Health” approach to orthodontics. This means every patient gets a unique, custom-made treatment plan that takes their bite, jaw relationship, TMJ and airway into account all while achieving a smile you’ll be proud to show off.
What types of braces do you offer?
We offer a variety of braces including traditional metal braces, clear aligners, and lingual braces to suit your needs and lifestyle.
What is Invisalign and do you offer it?
Invisalign is a type of clear aligner treatment for straightening teeth, and yes, we offer it at Orthospaceship along with other clear aligner options.
Do you offer adult orthodontic treatment?
Yes, in fact half of our patients are adults! We offer a range of orthodontic treatments to fit each lifestyle from traditional options like metal braces to concealed options like clear braces, clear aligners or hidden, lingual braces. LEARN MORE
How do I know if I need braces or aligners?
What age should my child first see an orthodontist?
How do I schedule an appointment?
You can schedule an appointment by calling our office or filling out the online appointment form on our website.
What are the payment options for orthodontic treatment?
What is orthodontic relapse?
Orthodontic relapse refers to teeth going back to their pre-orthodontic position. This usually happens when a patient loses and does not keep up properly with their retainers. We include retention programs for all patients to ensure that relapse does not occur.
How does Orthospaceship offer a lifetime of dental health?
We treat patients in centric relation, not just centric occlusion, ensuring that you have an ideal jaw position and bite for superior health for life. LEARN MORE
What is the Roth Williams philosophy of orthodontics?
The Roth Williams philosophy aims to achieve not just straight teeth but also ideal jaw and TMJ positions, contributing to overall health and well-being.
What is TMJ and how is it treated at Orthospaceship?
What are lingual braces?
Lingual braces are placed behind the teeth, making them virtually invisible when you smile.
What is accelerated orthodontics?
Accelerated orthodontics is a technique that speeds up the tooth movement process, reducing treatment time.
How do I care for my braces?
It is important to maintain excellent oral hygiene through careful brushing and flossing as well as receiving regular dental cleanings in order to maintain proper care for braces.