Alternatives to Braces in San Antonio, TX

Are you looking for alternatives to braces in San Antonio, TX? The good news is that there are plenty of alternatives to traditional metal braces that are effective, comfortable, and less noticeable. From Invisalign to lingual and clear braces, these options ensure you get the smile you’ve always wanted without compromising your comfort or confidence. Let’s explore some of the best alternatives to braces available in San Antonio.

Invisalign Clear Aligners

Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are one of the most popular alternatives to traditional braces. They come in the form of removable, transparent trays that gently shift your teeth into place. These aligners are custom-made for your teeth and are a convenient solution for many patients.

Girl smiling and pointing at Invisalign clear dental aligner in her hand as one of the Alternatives to Braces in San Antonio, TX.

Benefits of Clear Aligners

  • Nearly Invisible: Since they are clear, the aligners are hard to notice, making them a great choice for adults and teens who prefer a low-profile solution.
  • Removable: You can take them out while eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth, which makes them easy to use and maintain.
  • Better Cleaning: With no brackets or wires in the way, you can brush and floss normally, reducing the chances of cavities or gum problems.
  • Quicker Treatment: In many cases, clear aligners work faster than braces, with treatments lasting 12–18 months.
  • Comfortable Fit: Since they’re made of smooth plastic, there’s no irritation or sharp edges like with traditional braces.
  • Safe for Sports: Without metal wires or brackets, they’re a safer option for athletes and active individuals.

Clear aligners are an excellent choice for anyone seeking a simple, discreet way to achieve a straighter smile without the hassle of braces.

Clear Braces

If you prefer a more familiar orthodontic treatment but don’t want noticeable metal braces, clear braces could be the solution. These braces use brackets that match the natural color of your teeth, creating a much more subtle appearance.

A person with long blonde hair smiles while wearing a green scarf and green earrings, with clear braces as one of the Alternatives to Braces in San Antonio, TX, visible on their teeth. The background is a blurred autumnal setting.

Benefits of Clear Braces

  • Blend In with Teeth: The transparent or tooth-colored brackets help the braces blend, making them less noticeable.
  • Reliable Results: Clear braces work just like traditional braces, correcting misaligned teeth, gaps, and bite problems effectively.
  • Confidence-Boosting: Because they are less visible, many people feel more confident smiling throughout their treatment.
  • Smooth and Comfortable: The materials used for clear braces are designed to minimize irritation to your gums or cheeks.
  • Durable and Stain-Resistant: Proper care ensures they stay clean and clear, keeping your smile fresh.
  • Ideal for Teens and Adults: This is a great option for adults who prefer a discreet way to straighten their teeth or for teens who are image-conscious.

Clear braces provide the same powerful results as traditional braces while being far more discreet, making them a dependable choice for many patients in San Antonio.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are a truly hidden orthodontic solution. These braces are placed on the back of your teeth, completely out of sight. They work just like traditional braces but are almost invisible to other people.

Benefits of Lingual Braces

  • Invisible from the Front: Since the braces sit behind your teeth, no one can see them when you smile or talk.
  • Custom Fit: Lingual braces are designed specifically for your teeth, making them precise and comfortable.
  • Just as Effective: They fix all the same issues as traditional braces, including crooked teeth, gaps, and bite problems.
  • No Front Stains: Because the braces are behind your teeth, there’s no risk of staining the visible front surfaces.
  • Great for Adults: Many working professionals choose lingual braces to maintain a polished, professional appearance.
  • Daily Confidence: You can go about your day knowing your treatment is completely hidden.
  • Adaptable Speech: While there is an adjustment period, patients often adapt quickly, and speech issues typically resolve in weeks.

Lingual braces work well for anyone who wants the benefits of traditional braces without having them visible.

Choosing the Right Alternative in San Antonio, TX

When it comes to choosing a braces alternative, it’s essential to think about your specific goals and lifestyle. Consider the following:

  • Your Goals: Are you looking for faster treatment, invisible options, or something more affordable? Different alternatives cater to different needs.
  • Budget: Check with your orthodontist about costs and whether your insurance plan covers the treatment you’re considering.
  • Lifestyle Needs: If you have a busy lifestyle or play sports, removable or hidden options like clear aligners or lingual braces might be better for you.
  • Your Orthodontist’s Recommendation: Trust an experienced orthodontist in San Antonio to recommend the best choice for your smile.

Why Choose Our Orthodontic Office in San Antonio, TX?

At our office in San Antonio, we focus on helping you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile using personalized care and proven methods. Families trust us because:

Experienced Orthodontists

Our team has years of experience helping kids, teens, and adults. We specialize in all types of orthodontic treatments, including Invisalign, clear braces, and lingual braces, so you can feel confident in our care.

Tailored Treatment Plans

We believe every smile is unique. We take the time to create a customized plan that fits your needs, timeline, and budget.

Full Support from Start to Finish

From the first consultation to the day your treatment is complete, we’re here for you. Whether you need advice, adjustments, or just have questions, our friendly team is ready to help.

Wide Range of Options

No matter your situation, we have an orthodontic solution that works for you—whether it’s aligners, braces, or another method.

Book Your Free Consultation Today!

If you’re ready to explore your options, visit our office in San Antonio, TX. During your consultation, we’ll take a look at your teeth, explain your choices, and create a plan just for you. Scheduling is easy—give us a call or visit our website to book a virtual consultation!

Let us help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Contact us today to get started!

About the Authors

Dr. Andre Correia Jham – Orthodontist in Bloomingdale and Naperville, IL

Dr. Fateh Ra’ed Arslan – Orthodontist in San Antonio, TX

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the most affordable alternative to braces?

Clear aligners like Invisalign are often affordable and effective, especially for minor issues. Retainers and dental bonding are also cost-effective solutions for minor alignment fixes.

What’s the best option for someone who doesn’t want braces?

For a comfortable, invisible solution, Invisalign is one of the best choices. It’s removable, easy to use, and blends seamlessly into your life.

The Best Time for Orthodontic Treatment

Understanding the Phases

Welcome to Fiesta Orthodontics, where we are dedicated to providing personalized and comprehensive orthodontic care to patients of all ages. One of the most common questions we encounter is about the ideal time for orthodontic treatment. Whether considering treatment for yourself or for your child, understanding the differences between starting orthodontic care in childhood, adolescence, or adulthood can help you make an informed decision. Each stage of life offers unique advantages and challenges when it comes to orthodontic treatment.

The Best Time for Orthodontic Treatment: Understanding the Phases

Phase I: Early Treatment in Children

Benefits of Early Intervention

Initiating orthodontic treatment in children, also known as Phase I treatment, typically begins between the ages of 7 and 10. This phase capitalizes on a child’s growth spurts and developing dentition to address structural and spacing issues more effectively and efficiently. Dr. Nick Kim, an expert orthodontist in Suwanee and Tucker, GA, agrees that early orthodontic intervention during childhood can capitalize on growth spurts to address structural and spacing issues, simplifying future treatment and improving long-term oral health outcomes.

  • Growth Utilization: During this phase, we can guide the growth of the jaw and improve the width of the dental arches, reducing the need for extractions or more invasive procedures later on.
  • Duration and Effectiveness: Early treatment often means shorter and less complex procedures in the future. Phase I treatment can simplify subsequent treatments, potentially decreasing the overall time spent in braces during adolescence.
  • Preventative Care: Early identification and treatment of potential problems can prevent them from becoming more severe. Treating issues such as crowding, spacing, overbites, and underbites early can lead to better long-term oral health.

The Best Time for Orthodontic Treatment: Understanding the Phases

Adolescent Orthodontic Treatment

Peak Time for Braces

Adolescence is often considered the ideal time for orthodontic treatment because most permanent teeth have erupted by this stage. Treatment during these years is effective for several reasons:

  • Responsive Bone Structure: Teenagers’ bones are still growing, which means their skeletal structure is more responsive to orthodontic treatment than in later years.
  • Social Timing: Many adolescents are undergoing orthodontic treatment, so there’s a social acceptance factor that can ease self-consciousness about wearing braces.
  • Longevity of Results: Completing orthodontic treatment during adolescence can ensure that teeth remain in their correct positions for life, assuming retainers are used as directed.

Adult Orthodontic Treatment

Challenges and Rewards

More adults than ever are choosing to undergo orthodontic treatment, thanks to advancements in discrete options like clear aligners and ceramic braces.

  • Bone Density: Adults have denser bone tissue, which can slightly extend the duration of the treatment but still results in highly effective outcomes.
  • Aesthetic and Health Benefits: For adults, the motivation often includes both aesthetics and improving dental health. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean and maintain, reducing the risk of periodontal disease and tooth decay.
  • Technological Advancements: Modern orthodontic options such as Invisalign are particularly appealing to adults because they are nearly invisible and can be removed for eating, brushing, and special occasions.
The Best Time for Orthodontic Treatment: Understanding the Phases

Comprehensive Care at Every Age

At Fiesta Orthodontics, we tailor our treatments to fit the unique needs of each patient, regardless of their age. By choosing to undergo orthodontic treatment at the right time for you or your child, you can achieve not only a beautiful smile but also long-term dental health. Each phase of life offers distinct advantages for treatment, and with the guidance of Dr. Ayla Idilbi and Dr. Fateh Arslan and Dr. Ayla Idilbi, you can determine the best approach to take.

We invite you to visit us at Fiesta Orthodontics in Northwest San Antonio to discuss your orthodontic needs. Whether you’re considering early treatment for your child or you’re an adult exploring options for yourself, we are here to provide expert care and support throughout your orthodontic journey. Let us help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted!

Comprehensive Orthodontic Care at Fiesta Orthodontics

Comprehensive Orthodontic Care at Fiesta Orthodontics: Embracing Every Smile

At Fiesta Orthodontics, located in the vibrant community of Northwest San Antonio, Dr. Ayla Idilbi and Dr. Fateh Arslan and Dr. Ayla Idilbi are dedicated to providing not just orthodontic treatment, but a foundation for better oral health and confidence. Understanding the diverse needs of our patients, we offer a wide range of orthodontic solutions from traditional methods to advanced clear technologies, ensuring that every patient receives personalized and effective treatment.


 Comprehensive Orthodontic Care at Fiesta Orthodontics: Embracing Every Smile

Exploring Orthodontic Options: Traditional to Modern Innovations

Metal Braces: The Classic Choice

Metal braces, often considered the standard in orthodontic care, continue to be a popular choice due to their effectiveness in correcting a wide range of orthodontic issues. At Fiesta Orthodontics, we use the latest in high-quality stainless steel brackets and wires that are both durable and efficient. These braces are particularly favored by children and teenagers because they offer the option for customization with colorful bands, making the orthodontic journey fun and personal.

Clear Ceramic Braces: Subtle and Effective

For those seeking a less noticeable option without sacrificing the effectiveness of traditional braces, clear ceramic braces are an excellent choice. Made from composite materials, these braces are designed to match the color of your teeth, offering discretion and confidence throughout the treatment process. While they are visually less prominent, they require careful maintenance to prevent staining and are best suited for older teenagers and adults.

Invisalign: The Clear Alternative

Invisalign represents a breakthrough in orthodontic technology, allowing for teeth alignment using custom-fabricated, clear aligners that are virtually invisible. These aligners are removable, providing the flexibility to eat, brush, and floss with ease. Ideal for adults and teens who prefer a more discreet option, Invisalign aligners are custom-made using 3D computer imaging technology, ensuring a precise fit and effective treatment.

Welcome to Fiesta Orthodontics: Your Family Orthodontists in Northwest San Antonio

Specialized Treatments for Comprehensive Care

Early Intervention: Phase I Treatment

Recognizing the importance of early orthodontic evaluation, Fiesta Orthodontics offers Phase I treatment, which is targeted at children between the ages of 7 and 10. This proactive approach allows us to address potential issues with jaw growth and emerging teeth while the bones are still developing. Benefits of early intervention include reduced risk of needing tooth extractions, corrected oral habits like thumb sucking, and improved aesthetics and function of permanent teeth.

Dental Expanders: Creating Space for Perfect Alignment

Dental expanders play a crucial role in orthodontic treatment by widening the upper jaw to eliminate crowding and create space for future teeth alignment. This treatment is often necessary in cases where the palate is too narrow, leading to bite misalignment and other functional issues. By using expanders early, we can take advantage of a child’s natural growth processes for optimal results.

Clear Retainers: Securing Your Smile Post-Treatment

After the active phase of orthodontic treatment, retainers are vital for maintaining the new position of the teeth. We offer clear retainers, which are less noticeable and more aesthetically pleasing than traditional wire retainers. These retainers are custom-made to fit snugly over the teeth, ensuring that your beautiful new smile is preserved.

Limited and Comprehensive Treatments

At Fiesta Orthodontics, we understand that orthodontic needs vary greatly from one individual to another. That’s why we offer both limited and comprehensive treatment options. Limited treatments are focused on correcting minor orthodontic issues, often involving fewer teeth and requiring a shorter treatment duration. Comprehensive treatments involve full orthodontic care, addressing complex alignment issues and bite irregularities to improve overall oral health.

Comprehensive Orthodontic Care at Fiesta Orthodontics: Embracing Every Smile

Our Promise: Excellence in Every Smile

Our mission at Fiesta Orthodontics is to simplify the journey to a perfect smile through patient-centered care, advanced technology, and tailored treatment plans. We are committed to providing our community with the highest standard of orthodontic care in a friendly and welcoming environment. Whether you’re considering braces for your child, exploring adult treatment options like Invisalign, or anything in between, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Thank you for choosing Fiesta Orthodontics as your partner in orthodontic care. Visit us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve the smile you deserve, and experience firsthand why every day at Fiesta Orthodontics is a reason to smile!

Welcome to Fiesta Orthodontics

Your Family Orthodontists in Northwest San Antonio

Hello and welcome to Fiesta Orthodontics, where your smile is our celebration! Nestled in the heart of Northwest San Antonio, our office is proud to be a cornerstone of orthodontic excellence, family values, and community care. Owned and passionately operated by husband and wife team, Dr. Ayla Idilbi and Dr. Fateh Arslan and Dr. Ayla Idilbi, Fiesta Orthodontics is more than just an office—it’s a place where families grow, smiles shine, and lifelong relationships are forged.

Fiesta Orthodontics

Meet Your Orthodontists: Dr. Ayla and Dr. Arslan

At Fiesta Orthodontics, we’re not just your orthodontists; we’re your neighbors, too! Drs. Ayla and Arslan have dedicated their careers to creating beautiful smiles with the precision and care that only true passion can fuel. With advanced training and a gentle touch, they provide top-notch orthodontic services including Invisalign, clear braces, metal braces, and more, all tailored to meet the individual needs of each patient.

Welcome to Fiesta Orthodontics: Your Family Orthodontists in Northwest San Antonio

Our Commitment to Care

We believe that orthodontic treatment is a journey that should be embarked on with trust and confidence. That’s why we prioritize a patient-first approach in everything we do. From your first consultation to your final retainer check, our goal is to make you feel at home. We understand that each smile is unique, and so are the needs of our patients. Whether you’re an adult seeking a discreet correction or a parent looking for the best care for your child, we are here to guide you every step of the way. We also offer state-of-the-art technology, including advanced scanners, to ensure efficient and effective treatments.

Easy and Accessible Orthodontic Care

Understanding the financial aspect of orthodontic care, we provide in-house financing options with 0% interest to make the process as burden-free as possible. This commitment to accessibility ensures that all our patients can receive the care they need without financial strain.

Growing With Our Community

As residents and practitioners in Northwest San Antonio, we are thrilled to be part of such a vibrant area, rich with culture and community spirit. Our practice is not only about adjusting teeth but also about aligning with our community’s values and participating actively in its growth. We’re working hard to expand Fiesta Orthodontics to serve you better, implementing the latest technologies and treatment methodologies to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.

Welcome to Fiesta Orthodontics: Your Family Orthodontists in Northwest San Antonio

Join the Fiesta Family!

At Fiesta Orthodontics, we’re more than just a practice; we’re a family. We cherish the relationships we build with our patients and their families, and we’re excited about the opportunity to welcome new faces into our community. If you’re looking for compassionate, professional orthodontic care in Northwest San Antonio, look no further than Fiesta Orthodontics. Let us take care of your smile, and we promise to make every visit a reason to celebrate.

We invite you to stop by our office at 10865 Shaenfield Rd, Suite 1111, San Antonio, TX 78254, or give us a call to schedule your first appointment. Let’s make every smile a masterpiece together!

Thank you for considering us as your trusted orthodontic care providers. We look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve the smile of your dreams. Here at Fiesta Orthodontics, every day is a reason to smile!

How Invisalign Works: A Comprehensive Guide for San Antonio Patients

Invisalign is a cutting-edge orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to straighten your teeth. At Fiesta Orthodontics, we offer Invisalign care to help you achieve a great smile. Let’s dive into how Invisalign works and why it’s a top choice for many seeking a straighter smile in San Antonio.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign aligners are clear, plastic trays that straighten teeth. They are nearly invisible, and you can remove them for eating and cleaning. Invisalign works to fix crowded teeth, gaps, and mild bite problems for teens and adults. This treatment is an excellent option for those who want a discreet and flexible way to straighten their teeth.

Invisalign aligners are made of a flexible plastic called SmartTrack®. This material makes the aligners comfortable while providing the right amount of force to move your teeth.

Invisalign aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth and move them into place. Wear each set of aligners for about two weeks before switching to the next set. Wear aligners for 20-22 hours daily, removing them only for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing.

Benefits of Invisalign

  • Invisible: Clear aligners are hard to see.
  • Removable: Easy to take out for meals and cleaning.
  • Comfortable: Smooth plastic aligners are gentle.
  • Custom-Fit: Made just for your teeth.
How Invisalign Works: A Comprehensive Guide for San Antonio Patients

The Invisalign Process

Getting started with Invisalign includes a few key steps to tailor your treatment to your needs and goals.

Your First Steps

The process starts with a visit to Fiesta Orthodontics in San Antonio. Dr. Ayla and Dr. Arslan will check your teeth and discuss your goals. If Invisalign suits you, we’ll create a detailed plan.

Next, we take digital impressions of your teeth using 3D imaging. These scans are more comfortable and accurate than traditional molds. Using the digital impressions, we’ll create your treatment plan. This shows how your teeth will move and how long treatment will take. You’ll also see a virtual image of your future smile.

Once we set the plan, we make your custom aligners. Each set of aligners is slightly different, gradually moving your teeth into place.

Wearing & Switching Aligners

You get several sets of aligners at a time and wear each set for about two weeks. Every two weeks, you’ll switch to a new set of aligners. Each set will continue to move your teeth until they are in the desired position. This gradual process helps ensure that the movement of your teeth is gentle and controlled.

You’ll have regular appointments back at our office in San Antonio throughout your treatment to monitor your progress. These check-ups are crucial to keeping your treatment on track and making necessary adjustments.

Once you complete your treatment, you’ll start wearing a retainer to help keep your teeth in their new positions and maintain your beautiful new smile. Retainers are usually worn at night and are important to maintaining your results.

Maintaining Your Invisalign Aligners

As Dr. Jeryn Jacob, an expert orthodontist in Sunnyvale, TX, emphasizes, proper aligner maintenance is crucial for treatment success and optimal results. Here are some essential care tips:

Clean Your Aligners: Rinse with lukewarm water and brush with a soft toothbrush. Don’t use toothpaste, as it can scratch your aligners.

Brush & Floss Regularly: Brush and floss after every meal before putting your aligners back in so plaque and debris won’t build up.

Avoid Staining Foods & Drinks: Remove your aligners when eating or drinking anything other than water. Avoid foods and drinks that can stain, like coffee or tea. This keeps your aligners clear.

Store Aligners Properly: Always keep your aligners in their case when not in use. When they’re in their case, it reduces the risk of damage or loss.

Tips for Success with Invisalign

Follow Your Treatment Plan: Stick to the schedule provided by your orthodontist. Change your aligners as instructed, and attend all your check-up appointments to ensure your treatment progresses as planned.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth regularly to keep them healthy throughout your treatment. Clean aligners also help maintain good oral hygiene and prevent any potential dental issues.

Stay Positive and Patient: Orthodontic treatment takes time, and results won’t happen overnight. Stay positive and patient, and remember that you are closer to achieving your beautiful new smile each day.

How Invisalign Works: A Comprehensive Guide for San Antonio Patients

Choosing Invisalign at Fiesta Orthodontics

At Fiesta Orthodontics, we use advanced technology and personalized care to make sure your Invisalign treatment is a success. Ready to improve your smile with Invisalign? Schedule your free consultation with us today in San Antonio and start your journey to a healthier, more confident smile.

Choosing the Right Orthodontist in San Antonio: What To Look For 

In the heart of San Antonio, Dr. Ayla and Dr. Arslan are ready to transform your orthodontic experience into something extraordinary. Whether it’s your first consultation or you’re exploring new treatment options, understanding what makes the right orthodontist for you is important. Let’s dive into how choosing the right orthodontist in San Antonio can create the smile of your dreams. 

Who Is An Orthodontist?

Orthodontists are your superpowered dental professionals who diagnose, prevent, and treat your smile woes. They complete additional years of education beyond dental school to learn how to guide your teeth and build great new smiles. 

Dr. Ayla and Dr. Arslan have put in the work to become the top of their field and to provide you with the best treatments in San Antonio. Their mastery in orthodontics comes from over a decade of dedicated training and practice so that each patient benefits from the latest advancements in braces and Invisalign technology.

Choosing the Right Orthodontist in San Antonio: What To Look For

What To Look For In An Orthodontist

Education & Experience

When you’re looking for an orthodontist, the first place to look is the orthodontist’s education and experience. A good orthodontist hasn’t just done the extra education — they’re licensed and board-certified. These extra steps mean your doctor has gone above and beyond to give you the best.

Professional affiliations are also a great indicator of an orthodontist’s commitment to their field. Memberships in organizations like the American Association of Orthodontists are signs your orthodontist is staying up to date with the latest practices and technologies.

Technology & Treatment

In orthodontics, technology and treatments are always changing and growing to become better, more capable, and have better results. Orthodontists now use a range of advanced technologies like 3D imaging technology and digital X-rays to have a clearer image and allow for precise planning and assessment.

While metal braces are still common, new options such as ceramic braces or Invisalign give you different choices with just as great results. Invisalign and clear aligners provide a less noticeable and even removable option for San Antonio patients. 

At Fiesta Orthodontics, cutting-edge technology like shape-memory NiTi wires, inspired by NASA, enhances your comfort and speeds up treatment processes.

Patient-First Care

A good orthodontist should always leave you smiling! From a great treatment to a great experience, finding an office that puts you in the spotlight can make even the glummest patient crack a grin. 

With a patient-first atmosphere, you’ll be welcomed and comfortable, enjoying effective communication, accommodations, and flexibility. 

At Fiesta Orthodontics, communication goes beyond just being well-informed and involved. We’re a bilingual office and take pride in providing a multicultural office that offers comprehensive care in both English and Spanish.

Location & Accessibility

You shouldn’t have to drive hours for orthodontic treatment. Your orthodontist should be accessible and convenient from anywhere. During treatment, you’ll have to come back for regular visits, which can become a headache the further away they are.

Fiesta Orthodontics is located in the heart of San Antonio. We picked our location purposefully, so you’ll be able to give us a visit using different means of transportation! You’ll feel like you’re taking a break in your day rather than another errand to run.

Insurance & Financial Considerations

Price shouldn’t hold you back from getting a great smile. An office that understands the hassles of insurance and the headaches from finances can be the one that doesn’t break the bank.

From offering multiple payment options to accommodating different budgets, structured payment plans can spread costs out and keep you on track.

Our treatment coordinator at Fiesta Orthodontics is here to guide you through your insurance 

and finances. We’re about straightening your smile and straightening out your financial questions. We offer flexible payment plans and the option for automatic monthly charges so that your journey to a dazzling smile is as easy as the treatment itself.

Your First Consultation

Now that you know what to look for in an orthodontist, let’s walk you through what your first visit to the orthodontist will look like at Fiesta Orthodontics. Stepping into our office for your initial consultation is like walking into a comfort zone designed just for you. 

Right from the start, you’re greeted with warm smiles and a friendly environment that sets the stage for a positive orthodontic journey. During this first visit, Dr. Ayla and Dr. Arslan take their time to get to know you—not just your teeth but your concerns and aspirations, too.

Then, we’ll review your medical and dental history and get to know your smile. We use the latest technology to create a treatment tailored just for you. With 3D scans and advanced roadmaps, you’ll be ready and set to take your smile to the next level.

Choosing the Right Orthodontist in San Antonio: What To Look For

Your First Choice in San Antonio 

Ready to start your journey to a stunning, healthy smile? At Fiesta Orthodontics, we’re about straightening teeth and changing smiles. Don’t wait to experience the best in orthodontic care. Call us today to schedule your free consultation and see why we’re the trusted choice for orthodontics in San Antonio. Your new smile awaits!

San Antonio’s Guide to Braces: Everything Parents Need to Know

Setting your family up for happiness is your number one priority as a parent, and at Fiesta Orthodontics, we understand that. When your child reaches a major milestone, whether it’s their first day of school or their first braces appointment, it’s always exciting – but it can also be a little overwhelming! To help you navigate the new world of orthodontics, we’re here to offer a helping hand. From our family to yours, here’s San Antonio’s Guide to Braces: Everything Parents Need to Know. 

Know Your Treatment Options

The 21st-century world of orthodontic treatment looks a lot different than it used to, which means your kids have more options than ever for getting the smile of their dreams. From traditional metal braces to clear aligners, here’s what you should know about each treatment. 

Metal Braces

As the poster child for orthodontic treatment, traditional metal braces are still a top option for our San Antonio patients, but one thing has changed: modern braces are smaller, more discreet, and more comfortable than ever before. 

With a system of brackets and wires connected to the front of the teeth, metal braces use a continuous, gentle force to shift your child’s teeth in line over time. 

Clear Braces

Similar to metal braces, clear braces straighten your child’s smile with a matrix of brackets and wires that create continuous gentle force. Instead of silver metal, however, these brackets are made of tooth-colored ceramic, which helps them blend into the natural look of the teeth. This option works best for children who are concerned about the look of their teeth while going through treatment, giving you the ability to alleviate their worries while still giving them the treatment you know they need. 

Invisalign

Over the years, Invisalign has become such a household name we’re sure they’re already on your list of options. For this treatment, Dr. Ayla and Dr. Arslan use a series of clear aligner trays molded to fit the unique contours of your child’s smile. Each tray is slightly more aligned than the one before, allowing the teeth to move closer together without the brackets and wires of traditional braces. 

San Antonio's Guide to Braces: Everything Parents Need to Know

Finding the Right Orthodontist

You’ll be working with the orthodontist you choose for up to two years or longer in some cases, so doing your research is an essential part of any parent’s orthodontic to-do list. Here are a few questions to guide you in that process: 

  • What is your educational background? Remember, while dentists are there to clean your child’s teeth and maintain their oral health in general, you’ll want a qualified professional trained to straighten teeth if you want to get the best results (learn more about Dr. Ayla and Dr. Arslan). 
  • What financing options do you offer? Paying for treatment is a major consideration for parents of orthodontic patients, so finding a provider that will work with your budget is a top priority (learn more about financing and insurance at Fiest Orthodontics).  
  • What is your treatment philosophy? Every orthodontist is different, but finding a professional that aligns with your vision for your child’s treatment can make both you and your loved one feel confident moving forward (learn more about our practice). 

The First Consultation

At your child’s first consultation, you’ll get the chance to meet their potential orthodontist and ask whatever questions you might have about treatment. During this time, the orthodontist will take X-rays and images of your child’s teeth before conducting an oral examination. Then, they’ll explain the proposed treatment plan, as well as your estimated payment. 

At Fiesta Orthodontics, we offer free consultations so you can make the decision that’s right for your family without any financial obligation. 

Schedule Your Child’s First Appointment by Age 7! 

Knowing when to schedule an initial consultation is just as important as making the call. In line with the American Association of Orthodontists, we recommend every child visit an orthodontist by the time they turn 7. This gives Dr. Ayla and Dr. Arslan a head start on correcting their smile if they need early treatment or the ability to monitor their progress as they grow. Either way, the earlier you start, the better your child’s results will be in the long run. 

Helping Your Child Care for Their Braces

Having braces or clear aligners can be a big responsibility for kids and teens, but by helping them manage their oral hygiene and maintenance, follow directions, and attend all appointments, you can set them up for success. It’s important to keep up with all of your orthodontist’s instructions to make sure treatment stays on track, so whether that’s reminding them to wear their rubber bands or helping them learn how to brush their teeth with braces, you’ll be a big supporter in their treatment journey – and trust us, they’ll thank you later! 

San Antonio's Guide to Braces: Everything Parents Need to Know

Get Started with Fiesta Orthodontics! 

If there’s one thing we know, it’s that getting your child the orthodontic treatment they need is one of the best things you can do for their health and happiness. While it might seem like a task and a half right now, once you get started with our parents’ guide to braces, you’ll settle right in. 

If you’re ready to schedule your child’s free consultation, call our San Antonio office today!