Adult Orthodontics in Carlsbad, CA
Straighten crowded, spaced, or shifting teeth with Invisalign, clear braces, or metal braces.
Crowded teeth, gaps, or a bite that doesn’t line up can be more than a cosmetic issue. Adult orthodontics uses braces or clear aligners to move teeth gradually and improve how your upper and lower teeth fit together. It can address crowding, spacing, teeth that have shifted, and some bite problems.
MORE THAN APPEARANCE
A Straighter Smile That Works Better, Too
It’s not only about appearance. Straighter teeth are often easier to brush and floss, and a more even bite lets your teeth meet the way they should. “Children’s” is in our name, but our orthodontic care is open to adults too. That’s why we say, “Your Child’s Dentist. Your Family’s Orthodontist.” Whether this is your first time in treatment or you’re straightening teeth that shifted years after braces, you’re welcome here.
Why Choose Discovery Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics?
We provide orthodontic care for children, teens, and adults in one Carlsbad office. If your child already visits us, you can explore your own treatment with a team and location your family already knows.
Your care is planned and supervised by Dr. Natalie Dang, a board-certified orthodontist and Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics. Because we offer clear aligners, clear braces, and metal braces, Dr. Dang can recommend treatment based on your teeth, bite, and goals.
My doctor was very professional and highly skilled. The facility was very well managed and clean. I'll leave a well deserved five star review.
Receptionists are great, understanding and will help you as much as possible with insurance and explaining costs, etc. Very personable. Same with the dentist and hygienists. They take the time and do a thorough cleaning and work.
We absolutely love this team! From the moment you walk in, they make you feel right at home and like part of their family. The staff is incredibly welcoming, kind, and professional. We actually look forward to our dentist appointments, knowing we’ll receive exceptional care in such a warm and friendly environment. Highly recommend!
Is Orthodontic Treatment Right for You?
It may be worth scheduling an orthodontic evaluation if:
- Your teeth are crowded, crooked, or overlapping
- You have spaces between your teeth
- Your teeth have shifted since previous orthodontic treatment
- Your upper and lower teeth don’t meet properly
- You have an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite
- You want to improve how your smile looks or works
Crowns, implants, root canals, or missing teeth don’t automatically rule out orthodontic treatment. Dr. Dang will consider your dental history and may coordinate with your general dentist or another specialist when needed. If you have untreated decay, active gum disease, or another oral health concern, that condition may need attention before treatment begins.
Your Orthodontic Treatment Options
Invisalign Clear Aligners
Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners made to fit your teeth. Each set applies controlled pressure to move your teeth gradually according to your treatment plan.
You can remove the aligners to eat, brush, and floss. This makes them a discreet and convenient option for many adults. However, you’ll need to wear them as instructed to keep your treatment progressing.
Clear Braces
Clear braces use ceramic brackets that blend more naturally with your teeth. They remain fixed throughout treatment, providing the control of braces with a less noticeable appearance than traditional metal brackets. At our office, clear ceramic brackets may be placed on the upper teeth when requested.
Metal Braces
Metal braces use brackets and wires to move your teeth in planned stages. They can address a broad range of alignment and bite concerns and may be recommended when fixed braces are better suited to the correction you need.
Clear Aligners and Braces at a Glance
| Feature | Clear aligners | Clear or metal braces |
|---|---|---|
| How they work | Removable aligners changed according to your treatment plan | Fixed brackets and wires adjusted during treatment |
| Removable | Yes | No |
| Appearance | Clear and discreet | Clear braces blend more naturally; metal braces remain visible |
| Daily responsibility | Must be worn as instructed | Remain fixed throughout treatment |
| Oral hygiene | Removed for brushing and flossing | Requires cleaning around brackets and wires |
| May be suitable for | Certain alignment and bite concerns | A broad range of alignment and bite concerns |
| Typical cost at our office | Invisalign: $6,500 to $8,500 | Phase 2 orthodontic treatment: $5,000 to $7,000; clear ceramic brackets on the upper teeth add $500 |
Your preference matters, but not every option can correct every orthodontic concern. Dr. Dang will recommend treatment after evaluating your teeth and bite.
See the Difference in Real Smiles
What to Expect
Learn more about orthodontic retention.
How Much Does Adult Orthodontic Treatment Cost in Carlsbad?
At Discovery Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics in Carlsbad, Phase 2 orthodontic treatment typically ranges from $5,000 to $7,000, while Invisalign treatment typically ranges from $6,500 to $8,500. If requested, clear ceramic brackets can be placed on the upper teeth for an additional $500.
Your exact cost will depend on how much your teeth need to move, the complexity of your bite, and the treatment selected. You'll receive a personalized estimate after your evaluation.
We accept most dental insurance plans and can help you understand any orthodontic benefits available through your policy. Our insurance and financing options include OrthoBanc with 0% interest and payments as low as $119 per month for qualified patients, CareCredit, and HSA or FSA payments.
Meet Dr. Natalie Dang, Our Board-Certified Orthodontist
Dr. Natalie Dang is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics. She graduated Cum Laude from the UCLA School of Dentistry before completing her orthodontic specialty training and earning a Master of Science in Craniofacial Biology at the University of Southern California.
Dr. Dang listens to each patient’s concerns, explains the available options, and develops a treatment plan based on their individual orthodontic needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adult Orthodontics
Can adults get Invisalign, and is there an age limit?
Yes. Invisalign may be an option for adults who want to straighten crowded, spaced, or shifting teeth or correct certain bite problems. There is no fixed upper age limit. What matters is the health of your teeth, gums, supporting bone, and bite. Dr. Dang will evaluate these areas to determine whether Invisalign or another treatment is appropriate.
Is Invisalign or braces better for adults?
It depends on your orthodontic needs and how you'd prefer to manage treatment. Clear aligners are removable and less noticeable, while braces remain in place throughout treatment. Some tooth movements may be better suited to one option than another.
How long does orthodontic treatment take for adults?
Treatment time varies from one patient to another. It depends on your starting alignment, bite, treatment type, and how your teeth respond. You'll receive an estimated timeline after your examination and treatment records are complete.
At what age should my child first visit the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends the first dental visit by age 1 or shortly after the first tooth.
Do you see children with special needs?
Yes, we have experience and training in dental care for children with various special needs.
Is orthodontic treatment uncomfortable for adults?
You may feel some pressure or tenderness when you begin wearing aligners or after your braces are adjusted. This usually improves within a few days. Let us know if discomfort continues or something doesn't feel right.
Can I get braces or Invisalign if I have crowns, implants, root canals, or missing teeth?
In many cases, yes. Teeth with crowns or root canals may still be moved, while dental implants remain fixed in the bone. Dr. Dang will consider your existing dental work when planning treatment and may coordinate with your general dentist or another specialist when needed.
Ready to Talk About Your Smile?
You don't need to choose between clear aligners and braces before your first visit. Start with an evaluation, and we'll explain what can be corrected, which treatments may work, and what to expect before you decide.
Our adult services are limited to orthodontics. You should continue seeing your general dentist for examinations, cleanings, and other dental care.
Call us at (760) 438-1279 or request an orthodontic consultation online.
Ready to Experience Caring Dental Care?
Achieve the confident, beautiful, and healthy smile you deserve
About our Office
- CA (License 18945). View License Information
- Insurance: We work with most insurance providers.
- No Insurance? No problem, call (760) 438-1279 for more information.
- Financing Options: We offer a wide range of dental financing options.
- We serve patients from the following counties: San Diego
- We serve patients from the following cities: Carlsbad, Encinitas, Oceanside, San Marcos, Vista, San Diego & the surrounding communities.
- Have Questions? Please feel free to contact us at (760) 438-1279
