Braces in West Hills
If you've noticed crowded teeth in your child's smile, or you're an adult who has wondered for years whether it's too late to straighten your own, you're likely weighing whether braces are the right next step. At 805 Dentistry, we help West Hills families answer that question with a clear evaluation and an honest conversation about options. We treat both children and adults with metal braces, a time-tested approach to straightening teeth and improving how they fit together. Because we also provide general, cosmetic, and specialty care under one roof, braces become one part of a coordinated plan for your family's whole smile.
Metal braces use small brackets bonded to the front of each tooth, connected by a wire that applies steady, gentle pressure. Over time, and with periodic adjustments, that pressure guides teeth into better positions. It's a straightforward system, and because it stays on the teeth throughout treatment, it works continuously without your needing to remember to wear anything.
Metal braces remain a dependable choice for a wide range of orthodontic needs. They're especially practical for families who want a durable option for a child or teen, and for adults who prefer a fixed appliance over removable trays. We also offer clear aligners, including Invisalign, so if you're curious how the two compare for your situation, we're glad to walk you through both.
Many West Hills patients appreciate having orthodontics in the same practice that handles their cleanings, exams, and restorative care. Led by Dr. Dar Radfar, DDS, our office was built as a one-stop shop for the whole family. That means fewer separate offices to coordinate and a team that already knows your dental history when braces enter the picture.
That connected approach matters in practical ways. If a tooth needs attention during orthodontic treatment, or if you have questions about jaw discomfort, a focus area for our practice through our TMJ care, we can address it here. Our on-site dental lab and our emergency dental appointments add another layer of convenience for busy households.
Who is a good candidate for braces?
Children, teens, and adults can all be good candidates for braces, and the best way to know is an in-person evaluation. People often come to us for reasons like these:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth that are hard to clean
- Gaps or spacing between teeth
- Bites that don't line up comfortably when chewing
- A desire for a straighter, more confident smile
Age alone doesn't rule anyone out. We treat both children and adults, and we welcome orthodontic transfer patients who started treatment with another provider and need to continue care closer to home or with a new team.
During your visit, we look at your teeth, bite, and overall oral health to determine whether metal braces suit your goals. If another approach, such as clear aligners, would be a better fit, we'll tell you so.
What happens during braces treatment?
Treatment begins with a thorough exam and a conversation about your concerns, followed by a plan tailored to your smile. Once we agree on the approach, we bond the brackets to your teeth and place the wire. Most patients find the first few days involve some adjustment as they get used to the feel of the hardware.
From there, you'll return for regular appointments so we can adjust the wire and track progress. Between visits, careful brushing and flossing around brackets helps keep teeth and gums healthy. We'll show you practical techniques and let you know which foods are best avoided, such as very hard or sticky items that can loosen brackets. If something feels off between visits, simply call us.
What happens after my braces come off?
After your braces are removed, a retainer helps hold your teeth in their new positions. Wearing it as directed is one of the most important things you can do to protect the time and effort you've put into treatment. We'll explain how and when to wear your retainer and how to care for it.
We also provide retainers for patients who were treated elsewhere. If you moved to the area, lost a retainer, or simply want a local office to help maintain your results, we can help. Continuing routine cleanings and exams with us keeps your smile healthy long after orthodontic treatment ends.
How can I pay for braces?
We make paying for braces as manageable as possible by accepting all major PPO insurance plans, welcoming self-pay patients, and offering financing. Our team can help you understand how your coverage may apply before treatment begins, so there are fewer surprises along the way.
If you're paying out of pocket or want to spread costs over time, ask us about financing during your consultation. We'll review your options openly so you can make a decision that works for your family's budget.
When you're ready to explore braces for yourself or your child, our team is here to help West Hills patients take that first step with confidence.