Frequently Asked Questions
Straightforward answers to the questions we hear most — so you can feel confident before your first visit.
Getting Started
How long does orthodontic treatment typically take?
Treatment length varies depending on the complexity of your case and the type of treatment you choose. Most patients complete treatment between 12 and 24 months. At your consultation, we will give you a personalized timeline based on your specific needs.
Do I need a referral from my dentist?
No referral is needed. You can schedule a complimentary consultation directly with us at any time.
What is the ideal age to start orthodontic treatment?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child be evaluated by an orthodontist by age 7. Most children begin active treatment around age 12, when most permanent teeth have come in. That said, we treat patients of all ages, and it is never too late to start.
What is the difference between being treated by a general dentist versus an orthodontist?
Orthodontists and general dentists both complete dental school, but orthodontists go on to complete an additional three years of specialized training focused exclusively on jaw growth, bite, function, and alignment. That depth of education means a specialist is making every decision about your treatment. There is also a real benefit to having a second set of eyes on your care. Our orthodontists work closely with your general dentist, so your overall oral health is supported from every angle.
Where are Giannetti & Booms Orthodontic Specialists located?
We have three offices serving the Greater Sacramento region: Sacramento at 2650 21st St. Ste. 8 (95818), Davis at 635 Anderson Rd Ste. 6 (95616), and West Sacramento at 2101 Stone Blvd Ste. 130 (95691). All three offices share a single phone line at (916) 452-3584.
Treatment Options
What is the difference between braces and aligners?
Braces use brackets and wires to move teeth and are fixed in place throughout treatment. Aligners are a series of clear, removable trays that gradually shift teeth into position. Both options can achieve excellent results. The right choice depends on your specific case, your lifestyle, and your goals. We will walk you through both options at your consultation.
Can adults get orthodontic treatment?
Absolutely. We treat patients of all ages, and a significant portion of our patients are adults. Straight teeth are easier to clean, easier to restore, and contribute to long-term oral health. We offer several treatment options designed to fit adult lifestyles and schedules.
What is Phase 1 treatment, and does my child need it?
Phase 1, also called early intervention, is orthodontic treatment for younger children, typically between ages 7 and 10. It addresses jaw growth and tooth eruption during a critical developmental window, which can reduce the need for more complex treatment later. Not every child needs Phase 1, but for those who do, early action makes a real difference. We enroll children who are not yet ready for treatment in our complimentary Growth Guidance Program, where we monitor their development every six months.
What is the Damon Ultima bracket system?
Damon Ultima is a self-ligating bracket system that uses a slide mechanism instead of elastic ties to hold the wire in place. This reduces friction, allows for lighter and more natural tooth movement, and makes it easier to keep teeth clean during treatment. It is one of the most advanced bracket systems available, and it is our bracket of choice for patients in braces.
What are Spark aligners?
Spark aligners are a premium clear aligner system that we use as our aligner of choice. They are made from a high-clarity material that is designed to be more comfortable and more discreet than other aligner options. The doctor you choose for aligner treatment matters. The force and movement delivered by each aligner should be doctor-directed, and our doctors have treated thousands of cases with aligners and have the expertise to offer this modality of treatment even for the most complex cases.
Are mail-order or DIY clear aligners safe?
The American Association of Orthodontists has issued consumer alerts about direct-to-consumer aligners. Mail-order systems move teeth without X-rays, in-person exams, or supervision by a board-certified orthodontist, which can lead to damage that is difficult to reverse. We strongly recommend in-office aligner treatment by a specialist.
Could my child's crowded teeth be affecting their breathing or sleep?
Yes — narrow palates and crowded teeth can correlate with restricted airway and disrupted sleep. The American Association of Orthodontists published guidance on Sleep-Disordered Breathing in 2026 confirming this connection. At your child's evaluation we look at airway function, not just teeth alignment.
What is DentalMonitoring and how does it work?
DentalMonitoring is a remote monitoring system that lets us track your treatment progress between in-office visits using your smartphone. You take quick scans of your teeth at home, our team reviews them, and we confirm your treatment is on track. This reduces the number of in-office appointments needed, especially for adults and busy families.
Life with Braces
What foods should I avoid with braces?
Sticky, hard, and crunchy foods can damage brackets and wires. During treatment, we recommend avoiding things like caramel, popcorn, hard nuts, and chewing ice. We will give you a complete list when you start treatment so there are no surprises.
How often will I need to come in for appointments?
Most patients come in every 6 to 10 weeks for routine visits. We also offer remote monitoring through DentalMonitoring, which allows us to track your progress between visits and reduce the number of in-office appointments needed.
What happens after treatment ends? Do I need a retainer?
Yes. Once your braces come off or you complete your aligner treatment, you will wear a retainer to keep your teeth in their new position. We will walk you through exactly what to expect and how to care for your retainer so your results last.
Investment & Insurance
How much does orthodontic treatment cost, and do you offer payment plans?
The investment for treatment varies depending on the type and complexity of your case. We offer 0% interest in-house financing, accept most major insurance plans, and provide family discounts. Our Treatment Coordinator will walk you through every option so you can make the decision that works for your family.
What does the complimentary new patient consultation include?
Every new patient consultation is complimentary and includes a digital 3D scan of your teeth, a panoramic X-ray, an exam by one of our doctors, and a clear treatment plan with all options and pricing presented. The visit takes about 45 minutes, no referral needed.
