Orthodontics in West Hills
Crooked teeth, gaps, and bite problems are not only cosmetic concerns. They can affect how comfortably you chew, how easily you clean between teeth, and how confident you feel when you smile. At 805 Dentistry, we provide general orthodontics as part of our family dental care, so West Hills patients can address alignment in the same office they trust for cleanings, exams, and restorative work. Our practice is based in Thousand Oaks, and we gladly welcome West Hills families who want straightforward orthodontic care alongside the rest of their dental needs.
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry focused on moving teeth into better positions and improving how the upper and lower teeth fit together. With general orthodontics, our team uses proven tools, including traditional metal braces and clear aligners such as Invisalign, to gradually guide teeth where they belong. Because we are a general and family practice led by Dr. Dar Radfar, DDS, we view orthodontics as one piece of your overall oral health rather than a separate, isolated service.
We bill orthodontic care as a General Practitioner, and we treat both children and adults. That means a parent and a teenager from the same West Hills household can be seen by the same team, with records, X-rays, and history all kept in one place. For many families, that continuity is a large part of why they choose us.
Patients come to us for orthodontics for many different reasons, and each one shapes how we plan treatment. Some of the most common situations we see include:
- Children and teens with developing bites who may benefit from guidance while their smiles are still growing
- Adults who never had braces or who always wished their teeth were straighter
- Patients whose teeth have shifted after earlier orthodontic treatment, often because a retainer was lost or stopped being worn
- Transfer patients who started braces or aligners with another provider and need to continue care after a move or change
- Patients treated elsewhere who need retainers to protect results they already achieved
We are glad to accept orthodontic transfer patients, which can be a real relief for families who relocate to the West Hills area mid-treatment. We also provide retainers for patients who finished treatment at another office, so you do not need to have started with us to protect your smile going forward.
Am I a good candidate for braces or clear aligners?
Most children and adults with healthy teeth and gums can be candidates for orthodontic treatment, and the best way to know is a consultation with our team. During that visit, we examine your teeth, review your bite, and talk with you about what is bothering you and what you hope to change.
Choosing between braces and aligners depends on your specific needs and lifestyle. Traditional metal braces are fixed to the teeth and work continuously, which many parents appreciate for younger patients. Clear aligners are removable trays that are worn most of the day, often preferred by adults and teens who want a more discreet option. We explain the tradeoffs plainly so you can make an informed decision.
What happens during orthodontic treatment, and how do I care for my smile afterward?
Treatment begins with an exam and records so we can understand your bite and build a plan around it. From there, you will either have braces placed or receive your first set of aligners, followed by periodic visits so we can check progress and make adjustments.
Throughout treatment, keeping teeth and gums clean matters, and our patients benefit from having routine cleanings and exams available in the same office. Once teeth reach their new positions, a retainer helps hold them in place. Wearing your retainer as directed is one of the most important steps in protecting the time and effort you invested, and we are here to replace or provide retainers whenever you need them.
How can I pay for orthodontic treatment?
We accept all major PPO insurance plans, and our team can help you understand how your benefits apply to orthodontic care. Coverage varies by plan, so we review your specific situation before treatment begins.
We also welcome self-pay patients and offer financing for those who would like to spread costs over time. Our goal is to make orthodontics accessible for West Hills families and adults alike. If you are ready to explore braces, clear aligners, or a retainer replacement, contact 805 Dentistry to schedule a consultation with our team.