2024
Last updated:
Our Recommended Top 18
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Our goal is to connect people with the best local professionals. We scored San Diego Orthodontists on more than 25 variables across five categories, and analyzed the results to give you a hand-picked list of the best.
319Reviewed
198Curated
18Top Picks
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Providers
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Featured Provider
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- Yelp
- 5.0 (31)
(31)Why choose this provider?
Gilmore Orthodontics uses the latest orthodontic technology, including Empower, Damon System self-litigating braces, clear brackets, and Invisalign clear aligners. The clinic also treats kids, teens, and adults with traditional metal braces. Patients have praised the practice for its friendly, caring staff and quality care.
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- Yelp
- 4.5 (75)
Why choose this provider?
The doctor at MOD Squad Dental has more than 25 years of experience in the orthodontic field. The San Diego orthodontic clinic treats TMJ disorder and straightens teeth using Invisalign clear aligners. The practice also provides general dentistry care, periodontal therapy, cosmetic dentistry, and sedation dentistry. Dr. Friedman is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association, and the American Association of Functional Orthodontics.
Why choose this provider?
Dr. Melanie Orthodontics is a clinic based in San Diego. It is headed by dentist Melanie Wang, who works with her team of registered dental assistants, techs, and office staff to provide the local community with orthodontic services. The firm offers traditional braces, as well as clear aligners like Invisalign and 3M Clarity Aligners. It also has an in-office brand of clear aligners called TLC aligners. The clinic also has another location in Rancho Santa Fe.
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- Yelp
- 4.5 (63)
Why choose this provider?
The doctor at Stormberg Orthodontics has worked in the field for more than 15 years. Based in La Mesa, the orthodontic practice uses treatments such as Invisalign, Invisalign Teen, Victory braces, metal braces, clear braces, and Clarity braces. The clinic also performs jaw surgery. Stormberg Orthodontics is an Invisalign 2016 Top 1% Provider, a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, and a member of the American Association of Orthodontists.
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- Yelp
- 4.5 (28)
Why choose this provider?
The founder of Hardie Orthodontics has more than 25 years of orthodontic experience. The clinic, based in Escondido, treats patients using Invisalign, oral surgery, dental facial orthopedics, Clarity ceramic braces, Forsus, and Empower. Dr. Hardie is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics and is a member of the San Diego Academy of Orthodontists, the American Dental Association, the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists, the American Board of Orthodontics, and other associations.
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- Yelp
- 5.0 (41)
Why choose this provider?
The doctor at Braces by Henry has more than 25 years of orthodontic experience. The practice, based in Poway, has a free shuttle service for students going to an appointment from school. The clinic uses up-to-date technology in its procedures, including digital radiography, digital photography, and advanced computer graphics. The practice treats patients using Invisalign, clear ceramic braces, self-litigating braces, and lingual braces.
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- Yelp
- 4.5 (59)
Why choose this provider?
Poiset and Associates has been caring for San Diego patients since 1994. The clinic's treatment options include Invisalign, the Damon System, and braces. The practice is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Patients have praised the doctor for his care with kids and professionalism.
Expertise.com Rating
Why choose this provider?
Greenspan Orthodontics treats patients using clear braces, ceramic braces, Damon Smile self-litigating braces, Invisalign, and Invisalign Teen. The clinic gives complimentary consultations and uses 3D low-radiation digital x-rays. Dr. Greenspan won The Best in San Diego Award in 2013 and 2014, and is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists, and the San Diego Orthodontic Society.
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- Yelp
- 4.5 (23)
Why choose this provider?
Great Smiles is an orthodontic and dental clinic based in Solana Beach. The practice cares for kids and adults with treatments including surgical orthodontics, Invisalign, and metal braces. The clinic also provides pediatric dental care for infants, toddlers, kids, and teens. The clinic has been caring for patients for more than 30 years.
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- Yelp
- 5.0 (40)
Why choose this provider?
Signature Orthodontics treats patients with clear aligners, clear braces, the Damon System, Damon Clear, ClearCorrect, In-Ovation, Clarity, and Incognito. Dr. Jerome is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, the American Board of Orthodontics, the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists, and the San Diego County Dental Society. Patients have praised the doctor for his professionalism and care.
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- Yelp
- 5.0 (25)
Why choose this provider?
The doctor at Sun Orthodontics has been practicing orthodontic care for more than 25 years. The practice is accredited by the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating and won the 2009 San Diego Award for Best Local Business in Orthodontics, 2010 America's Top Dentist, and the 2011 Top Doc San Diego Award. The clinic is a member of the American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontists. Patients have praised Dr. Duong for her care for her patients and attention to detail.
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- 3.3 (12)
Why choose this provider?
The orthodontist at Stonecrest Dental Group and Orthodontics has been practicing in the field since 2008. The practice keeps electronic dental records and uses digital x-ray technology. The clinic is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association, and the Orange County Dental Society. Patients attest to Stonecrest Dental Group and Orthodontics' friendly and helpful staff.
Why choose this provider?
Reza Kasiri, DDS has been practicing dentistry and orthodontics since 1988. The San Diego orthodontic clinic uses metal braces, clear aligners, and other options for orthodontic treatment. The clinic also provides general preventative dentistry, tooth extractions, root canals, cosmetic dentistry, oral surgery, pediatric care, and emergency treatment. The practice is available 24 hours a day for emergency care.
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- Yelp
- 4.5 (29)
Why choose this provider?
Rancho Del Rey Orthodontics is an orthodontic clinic based in Chula Vista that cares for kids and adults. The orthodontic practice's treatment options include Invisalign, Invisalign Teen, braces, retainers, surgical orthodontics, TMJ and TMD treatments, night guards, sleep apnea treatments, and snoring therapy. The clinic is an Invisalign 2015 Premier Provider, and Dr. Prater is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association, and other organizations.
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- Yelp
- 5.0 (37)
Why choose this provider?
Lawrence Lotzof, DDS cares for kids, teens, and adults with Invisalign, traditional metal braces, jaw corrective appliances, retainers, palatal expanders, and lingual braces. Dr. Lotzof is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics and an active member of the American Association of Orthodontics, the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association, the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists, and the San Diego County Dental Society.
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- Yelp
- 5.0 (43)
Why choose this provider?
Milberg Orthodontics treats its San Diego patients with clear and metal braces for kids, teens, and adults. The clinic's other treatment options include surgical orthodontics, TADs, palatal expanders, Invisalign, and Invisalign Teen. The practice is a member of The Angle Society and the American Board of Orthodontics. Patients have given positive feedback for Milberg Orthodontics' friendly staff and on-time appointments.
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- Yelp
- 5.0 (43)
Why choose this provider?
Dr. Marston of Marston Orthodontics has more than 10 years of experience in dentistry and orthodontics. The doctor is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, the Paci?c Society of Orthodontists, the California Dental Society, and the San Diego County Dental Society. The clinic sponsors local organizations such as the Rancho Penasquitos Little League, the Rancho Penasquitos Town Council, and Wolverine Youth Football and Cheer.
Why choose this provider?
Braces San Diego treats kids, teens, and adults in the San Diego area. The practice uses clear braces, metal braces, Invisalign, Invisalign Teen, Damon Smile self-litigating braces, and tongue thrust therapy. The clinic is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists. Patients have given positive feedback for Braces San Diego's helpful and accommodating staff.
Compare our Top Orthodontists
| Name | Expertise Rating | Address | Promotions | Learn more |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gilmore Orthodontics | View More | |||
| MOD Squad Dental | View More | |||
| Dr.Melanie Orthodontics | 10432 Reserve Dr #114, San Diego, CA92127 | View More | ||
| Stormberg Orthodontics | View More | |||
| Hardie Orthodontics | View More | |||
| Braces by Henry | View More | |||
| Poiset and Associates | View More | |||
| Greenspan Orthodontics | View More | |||
| Great Smiles | View More | |||
| Signature Orthodontics | View More | |||
| Sun Orthodontics | View More | |||
| Stonecrest Dental Group and Orthodontics | View More | |||
| Reza Kasiri, DDS | View More | |||
| Rancho Del Rey Orthodontics | View More | |||
| Lawrence Lotzof, DDS | View More | |||
| Milberg Orthodontics | View More | |||
| Marston Orthodontics | View More | |||
| Braces San Diego | View More |
FAQs
Introduction
Dentistry is a broad type of medical specialty that focuses on the care and treatment of the mouth, gums, throat, and overall oral care. An orthodontist is a type of dentist that specializes in fixing misaligned teeth, jaw alignment, and bite patterns. One way to distinguish between the two is that all orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists. In their lifetime, everyone should regularly see a dentist. However, only people with specific dental problems will need to see an orthodontist.
What is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a specialty dentist who receives advanced training to diagnose and treat overbites, overcrowded mouths, misaligned teeth and jaws, and occlusions. After diagnosing the issue, an orthodontist will recommend a treatment course that may include surgery, braces, retainers, tooth removal, and more.An orthodontist receives more training than a general dentist to become an expert in their specific field of dentistry.
Are orthodontists doctors?
Yes, all dentists are doctors of oral health. Dentists receive a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree or a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree (DDS). As orthodontists are a type of dentist, they qualify as a doctor.
What is the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?
A dentist treats a wide variety of issues. An orthodontist is a specialist who has received extra training to focus on one aspect of dentistry — teeth and jaw alignment. An orthodontist has all the training the dentist has and could drop orthodontics and practice general dentistry. In comparison, a dentist would need to have the additional education to become an orthodontist.
What does an orthodontist do?
People go to an orthodontist when they have teeth or jaw abnormalities. An orthodontist treats:
- Crooked teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Overly spaced teeth
- Bite alignment issues, such as an overbite or an underbite
- Jaw misalignment
- Facial symmetry issues
The orthodontist's objective is to improve the patient's teeth so they have a straight and functioning smile that allows them to speak, eat, and look normal.
Do you have to be referred to an orthodontist?
Most orthodontists today don’t require a referral to book a consultation appointment with a new patient. However, you may wish to get a referral from your dentist to get a recommendation. If you’re hoping to get your orthodontic care covered by insurance, your insurance may require a referral. Contact your insurance provider to confirm your coverage and details.
Do orthodontists keep retainer molds?
People often lose or break their retainer. If that happens, they’ll need to visit their orthodontist and pay for a new retainer. Luckily, since orthodontists know this happens so frequently, most keep retainer molds on file to get a new one made for you immediately.
Do orthodontists pull teeth?
Yes, orthodontists can extract teeth in their treatment process. Pulling teeth is common for overcrowded teeth, braces, facial symmetry, jaw alignment, and other cases. Most often, if they think it's necessary for tooth extraction, they refer the patient to a general dentist or oral surgeon.
Do orthodontists remove wisdom teeth?
An orthodontist can recommend you have your wisdom teeth removed within their treatment plan, but they don't typically do this procedure themselves. Instead, wisdom teeth removal is usually done by a general dentist. If the case is particularly complicated, the patient may be referred to an oral surgeon for their wisdom teeth removal.
Do orthodontists reshape teeth after braces?
After doing all that work to align your teeth, your straight smile could sometimes be further improved with teeth contouring or reshaping. Both a general dentist and an orthodontist have the education and training necessary to offer these procedures to their patients.
Can you switch orthodontists when you have braces?
Yes, you can switch orthodontists when you have braces. You'll need to notify your orthodontist of your intentions, ask them to send your records to your new orthodontist, and make sure the new orthodontist has the same type of braces and treatments. Your current orthodontist may charge you a fee for leaving without finishing treatment.
Can you transfer orthodontists?
Yes, you can always transfer orthodontists. This is a service you're paying for and you reserve the right to work with someone new. But, ideally, you'll want to find a new orthodontist that is comfortable taking on your specific case before you notify your old orthodontist that you're leaving.
Do orthodontists clean teeth?
An orthodontist doesn’t typically clean their patient’s teeth. Patients will need to continue to see their regular dentist for check-ups and cleanings while receiving treatment with an orthodontist. However, at the beginning of your appointment, your orthodontist might do a light cleaning if necessary.
Can you get a new retainer from any orthodontist?
Yes, you can go to any orthodontist for a new retainer. However, it will likely cost more money. This is because your orthodontist will already have your impressions on file, while a new orthodontist will take a new impression of your teeth. This will also delay the process of getting the new retainer.
Does insurance cover orthodontics?
Most employers offer dental coverage. However, orthodontic coverage is usually limited (if provided at all) to children under the age of 18. You might be able to receive coverage if you can make a case that you need orthopedic care for your overall health, but this is rare.To be sure, contact your insurance provider directly.Many orthodontists offer payment plans for long-term treatment plans.
How do I become an orthodontist?
It typically takes between 10-11 years to become an orthodontist. The steps include:
- Completing an undergraduate degree
- Passing the Dental Admission Test
- Graduating from an accredited dentistry school
- Completing 2-3 years at an accredited orthopedic residency program
- Passing the National Board Dental Examination
- Obtaining a license to practice orthodontics. In some states, this means passing a special state exam.
How much do orthodontists make?
The national average salary for an orthodontist in the USA is $256,491. However, this salary can greatly vary depending on the state, hours worked, if the person owns their own practice, and other factors. Orthodontists also receive excellent benefits, such as license reimbursem*nt, flexible schedules, and loan assistance.
How do I become an orthodontist assistant?
An orthodontist assistant will need to complete a certificate or associate’s degree in dental assisting and get certified to practice. Each state might have slightly different requirements, such as state exams, to become an orthodontist assistant. You’ll need to:
- Review your state’s requirements
- Choose a certification or associate's degree program in your area, enroll, and graduate
- Pass the certification exam
How much does an orthodontist assistant make?
According to Payscale.com, the median annual salary for an orthodontist assistant in 2020 was $34,477.However, this salary can vary greatly depending on the state the orthodontist assisting is working in, the total hours worked, level of experience, and other factors.
Can a dental hygienist become an orthodontist?
A dental hygienist completes a bachelor's degree in dental hygiene to receive their accreditation. After this, they can choose to continue their education to become an orthodontist.They'll first need to complete a four-year doctoral program to get a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. After which, they'll continue on to an orthodontist specialty.
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