Orthodontics and Braces in Riverside, CA

At University Dental Clinic – Riverside, we align smiles for children, teens, and adults.

How do I know if I need orthodontics?

If you notice crooked or crowded teeth, gaps, difficulty chewing, an open bite (teeth don’t touch), jaw pain, or upper teeth covering the lower teeth too much, orthodontic treatment may help.

In children, signs such as mouth breathing, thumb sucking, or “teeth that haven’t come down” also require evaluation.

What We Correct and Why It Matters

● Overbite / Underbite: prevents premature wear and jaw pain.

● Crossbite / Open bite: improves chewing, speech, and facial aesthetics.

● Crowding: makes cleaning easier, reducing cavities and gingivitis.

● Spacing: balances bite forces and enhances the smile.


A correct bite doesn’t just look good — it prevents wear, improves digestion, makes oral hygiene easier, and helps reduce jaw and head pain associated with poor occlusion.

Treatment Options:
Which one is best for me?

Braces

(metal or ceramic)

Braces are ideal for moderate to complex cases. With today's technology, they are more comfortable and discreet than ever. They allow precise control of tooth movement and provide excellent results even in cases with rotations or severe crowding.

Ideal for: teens with significant crowding, adults with complex bites, and cases needing 3D movements.

Estimated time: 12–24 months depending on complexity.

Clear Aligners

(Invisalign® and other brands)

Nearly invisible trays that move teeth gradually. They are removed to eat and brush, making hygiene and lifestyle easier.

Ideal for: mild to moderate cases, students or professionals who want discreet treatment.

Key requirement: discipline to wear them 20–22 hours per day.

Estimated time: 6–18 months.

Retainers: The Step That Protects Your Investment
After any orthodontic treatment, teeth tend to shift back. Retainers (removable or fixed) maintain your results while bone and gums stabilize.

How long? Daily use in the beginning, then nighttime long-term (customized plan).

Red flag: If your retainer feels tight, let us know — we can adjust it before teeth shift back.

When Braces Are Not Enough: Surgical Orthodontics

In severe bite problems caused by jaw size or position (e.g., jaw too far forward or too far back), orthodontics alone may not fix the underlying issue. In those cases, we plan a combined treatment:


  1. Pre-surgical orthodontics to align teeth.
  2. Orthognathic surgery (with a specialist) to reposition the jaw.
  3. Post-surgical orthodontics to perfect the bite.

We Accept Insurance and Offer Affordable Payment Plans

Orthodontics is not only cosmetic. When there is a functional concern (chewing, bite issues, pain), Medi-Cal or PPO insurance may cover part of the treatment.

We verify your insurance coverage in minutes and provide accessible payment plans.

We guide you through the orthodontic process step by step

  1. Initial evaluation at our clinic: We review your medical history, take photos, X-rays, and a digital scan.
  2. Clear plan: We explain the diagnosis, options (braces vs. aligners), treatment time, and cost.
  3. Start treatment: Placement of braces or first set of aligners.
  4. Checkups every 4–8 weeks: adjustments or new aligner trays (depending on your treatment).
  5. Retainers & maintenance: we help protect results long-term.

Early Orthodontic Evaluation

For children starting at age 7, early detection guides growth and may shorten future treatments.

Our orthodontic team will guide you through every step, ensuring a smooth and satisfying journey to a beautiful smile.


Schedule an appointment for an evaluation and discover how University Dental Clinic can help you achieve a perfect smile.

Frequently Asked Questions
About Our Services

What should I expect at my first orthodontic appointment?
At your first visit, we will review your dental history, take digital X-rays or scans if needed, and perform a detailed exam of your teeth and bite. Our orthodontist will discuss possible treatment options, answer your questions, and explain the next steps. This is also your chance to share your goals and concerns so we can create a plan tailored to your needs.
What is the best age to visit an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, we can identify any potential bite or alignment issues early. However, orthodontic treatment can be effective at any age, teens and adults can also benefit greatly from braces.
Am I a candidate for braces or Invisalign?
Most patients with crooked, crowded, or spaced teeth, or bite issues (overbite, underbite, crossbite), are candidates for orthodontic treatment. Invisalign is often a great choice for mild to moderate cases, while braces may be recommended for more complex corrections. A consultation at University Dental Clinic will determine which option is right for you.
Why should I wear elastics?
Elastics (rubber bands) help move your teeth and jaws into the correct position. They are an important part of treatment and ensure your bite aligns properly. Wearing them as instructed speeds up progress and helps you finish treatment on time.
How long should I wear my retainers?
After treatment, retainers are necessary to keep your teeth from shifting back. Typically, you’ll wear your retainers full-time for the first few months, then only at night. For long-term results, we recommend wearing your retainers indefinitely a few nights a week.
Do I still need to see my general dentist while I have braces?
Yes, absolutely! Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Braces or aligners make it harder to clean your teeth properly, so your dentist can help prevent cavities, gum issues, and staining during treatment.
Can wisdom teeth cause my teeth to shift?
Yes, if wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to come in, they can push on nearby teeth and cause shifting. That’s why your orthodontist and dentist will monitor them closely.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes, we have flexible payment options.
Does insurance cover orthodontic services?
Yes, we accept Dentical.

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Appointment Today

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Your smile deserves the best care!

2211 University Ave
Riverside, CA 92507
Monday:
9:00am - 5:00pm
Tuesday:
9:00am - 5:00pm
Wednesday:
9:00am - 5:00pm
Thursday:
9:00am - 5:00pm
Friday:
9:00am - 5:00pm
Saturday:
Closed
Sunday:
Closed
2211 University Ave Riverside, CA 92507
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