Affordable Braces in Sacramento – Specialist Orthodontic Treatment for a Straighter Smile

Q: What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is one of many dental health specializations. As a field, it focuses on the proper alignment of a patient’s teeth and jaws. This specialized form of dentistry encompasses the appropriate diagnosis, prevention, and timely treatment of dental and orofacial growth abnormalities. In short, it’s the field that focuses on ensuring proper teeth development and alignment.

Q: Who is an orthodontist?

If there’s a specialized field, there should also be a corresponding specialist. Orthodontists are dental health specialists with additional training and experience that results from intense two- or three-year certification programs and internships. As your orthodontist, such specialists can gradually and safely straighten teeth, correct bad bites, fix malaligned jaws, and improve your smile’s function.

Q: What’s the best age to visit the orthodontist?

Here’s a simpler way to put it: The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children have their first orthodontic appointment around age 7. However, there’s no specific age to start treatment. Starting early can aid in proper dental development, so it’s beneficial to consult with an orthodontist sooner rather than later.

Q: How can I take care of my teeth if I’m wearing braces or a retainer?

Taking care of your teeth with braces or a retainer involves several steps: 1. Brush your teeth after every meal, including snacks, and floss daily. Consider using an interdental brush along with dental floss. 2. Use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen your teeth, and ask your dentist about fluoride treatments. 3. If you have removable retainers or clear aligners, take them off to brush your teeth, floss, or use a water irrigator and interdental brush. Store them safely in their case while cleaning your teeth. 4. Keep your retainers or aligners clean by brushing them with liquid soap. Avoid abrasive toothpaste and hot water, as they can damage them. 5. Watch your diet by avoiding sugary foods and drinks that promote bacteria and plaque buildup. Also, steer clear of sticky, chewy, and hard foods that can damage your braces or retainer. 6. Don’t skip your routine dental checkups every six months to maintain proper dental health.

Q: What are braces?

Braces are a well-known orthodontic treatment option that involves bonding brackets to each tooth and connecting them with a wire. This setup not only enhances the appearance of your smile but also aligns your teeth and jaws. Your Sacramento orthodontist, Dr David Markham, can discuss the various types of braces available or Invisalign® clear aligners.

Q: If I get braces, how long do I have to wear them?

The duration of wearing braces varies from person to person and depends on several factors. On average, treatment can last between 6 and 30 months, with the typical duration being around 22-24 months. Various factors influence treatment length, including: 1. The type of orthodontic appliance chosen. 2. How well you follow your orthodontist’s instructions. 3. The severity of your orthodontic issue.

Q: Do braces hurt?

Wearing braces shouldn’t be excessively painful. If you’re experiencing prolonged pain lasting more than five days after your initial visit, it’s essential to reach out to your orthodontist. However, it’s normal to feel some discomfort as your braces work to gradually shift your teeth into their new positions. This discomfort typically subsides within a few days.

Q: Do I need to brush my teeth more often if I have braces?

Absolutely yes. With braces, maintaining excellent oral hygiene becomes even more critical. As mentioned earlier, brushing your teeth after every meal is essential to prevent food particles from accumulating around your braces and causing dental issues. Aim to brush your teeth at least three times a day to ensure the health of your gums and overall dental well-being. This consistent brushing routine helps remove food debris and prevents the proliferation of harmful bacteria in your mouth.

Q: If I have braces, do I still need regular dental checkups?

Absolutely. Even with braces, regular dental checkups are essential. While wearing braces, you may be more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease due to the challenges of cleaning around the brackets and wires. Despite your efforts to maintain oral hygiene, professional dental cleanings and examinations are necessary to ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment. Your dentist can provide specialized care to address any emerging issues and help you maintain optimal oral health.

Q: Will my braces interfere with my school activities like sports, playing an instrument, or singing?

No, your braces shouldn’t interfere significantly with your school activities, sports, or hobbies. While it may take some time to adjust to wearing braces, they should not prevent you from participating in your usual activities. You can continue playing sports, even contact sports, by using a mouthguard to protect your braces. Similarly, if you play an instrument or enjoy singing, you should be able to continue with these activities with minimal disruption from your braces.

By: Rooster Grin April 14, 2026

A straight smile can do more than improve appearance. Properly aligned teeth are often easier to clean, can support better oral health, and may help boost confidence at any age. If you are looking for affordable braces in Sacramento, modern orthodontic treatment offers a reliable way to correct alignment issues and improve your smile.

At Markham Orthodontics, we provide personalized braces treatment designed to help patients achieve healthy, confident smiles with comfort and precision.

Achieve a Straighter Smile with Modern Braces

Braces remain one of the most effective ways to correct crooked teeth, crowding, spacing issues, and bite problems. Because they apply steady, controlled pressure over time, braces can create accurate results, even in more complex orthodontic cases.

Today’s braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more efficient than ever before. With modern technology and a customized treatment plan, patients can enjoy a smoother orthodontic experience from start to finish.

What Are Braces and How Do They Work?

Braces use brackets and wires to gradually move teeth into better alignment. Each part of the appliance plays an important role in guiding teeth into their proper position over time.

Treatment begins with a consultation, where your orthodontist will examine your teeth, evaluate your bite, and discuss your smile goals. Based on your needs, a personalized treatment plan is created.

Once braces are placed, regular adjustment appointments help keep your treatment moving in the right direction. With each visit, your smile gets closer to its final result.

Types of Braces Available

Traditional Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces are a popular and dependable option for patients of all ages. They are durable, effective, and well suited for treating a wide range of orthodontic concerns.

Modern Orthodontic Options

Advancements in orthodontics have made braces more comfortable and efficient. Improved materials and updated designs can help reduce irritation and make treatment easier for many patients.

Benefits of Choosing Braces

Braces offer both cosmetic and health benefits. Straight teeth are often easier to brush and floss, which can support better long-term oral hygiene. Braces can also correct bite issues that may affect comfort, function, and overall dental health.

In addition, braces can improve the appearance of your smile and give you more confidence in everyday life. For many patients, they remain one of the best options for achieving precise, lasting results.

Who Needs Braces?

Braces can be a great option for children, teens, and adults. Orthodontic treatment is not limited by age, and many adults choose braces to improve both the appearance and function of their smiles.

Braces may help treat:

Crowded teeth
Gaps between teeth
Overbites and underbites
Crossbites
General alignment concerns

An early orthodontic evaluation can help identify issues before they become more severe, which may lead to more efficient treatment.

Braces Treatment Process

Your braces journey begins with a detailed consultation. During this visit, your orthodontist will examine your teeth, review your concerns, and create a treatment plan tailored to your smile.

Once your braces are placed, you will return for regular check-ins so your orthodontist can monitor progress and make adjustments as needed. These visits are an important part of keeping treatment on track.

After braces are removed, retainers are typically recommended to help maintain your results and keep your new smile in place.

Cost of Braces Treatment

Factors That Affect Cost

The cost of braces can vary depending on the type of braces you choose, the complexity of your case, and the length of your treatment.

Affordable Payment Options

At Markham Orthodontics, we believe quality orthodontic care should be accessible. We offer affordable payment options, transparent pricing, and assistance with insurance to help make treatment easier to manage. Flexible monthly payment plans may also be available.

Why Choose Markham Orthodontics for Braces?

Markham Orthodontics is committed to providing high-quality orthodontic care in a welcoming, patient-focused environment. Our team combines experience, modern technology, and personalized treatment planning to help patients feel confident throughout the process.

We take the time to understand your goals, explain your treatment options, and support you every step of the way. Our focus on comfort, precision, and long-term results helps patients feel informed and cared for from their first visit to their final smile reveal.

Book Your Braces Consultation

Taking the first step toward a straighter smile starts with a consultation at Markham Orthodontics, we make it easy to get started with convenient scheduling and personalized care.

An early consultation can help identify orthodontic concerns, answer your questions, and determine the best treatment plan for your smile. Reach out today to schedule your braces consultation and start your journey toward a healthier, more confident smile.

Locations We Serve

Auburn
Natomas

FAQs

Where can I find affordable braces in Auburn, CA?

You can find affordable braces in Auburn by choosing an orthodontic office that offers flexible payment options, transparent pricing, and personalized treatment. At Markham Orthodontics, we provide cost-effective braces treatment designed to help patients achieve healthy, confident smiles.

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