frequently asked questions
How can we help you?
Whether you’re getting braces for the first time, exploring clear aligners, or just curious about how orthodontic treatment works, we’re here to answer your questions. At Half Moon Orthodontics, we believe informed patients feel more confident and comfortable throughout their smile journey.
Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions we hear from our patients and their families. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, just give us a call — we’re always happy to chat.
Our Office
Which orthodontic treatments do you offer?
We offer orthodontic solutions for kids, teens, and adults — including metal braces, clear ceramic braces, and clear aligners for even complex cases. We also provide Phase 1 Treatment for children.
What makes your practice different?
Half Moon Orthodontics offers affordable care, proven results, and over 10 years of experience, all backed by cutting-edge technology you won’t find just anywhere. With Dr. Mody’s friendly approach and clinical expertise, paired with a warm team and inviting space, you’ll have an orthodontic experience that feels as good as it looks.
Do you treat adults?
Absolutely! There is no age limit for orthodontics. Whether you missed out on braces as a teen, or your teeth have shifted over time, Half Moon Orthodontics has you covered with multiple options.
New Patients
Where is your office located?
We are at:
29100 Portola Parkway, Suite A
Lake Forest, CA 92630.
We proudly serve Lake Forest, Irvine, Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, Foothill Ranch, Laguna Hills, Ladera Ranch, and the surrounding areas.
Do I need a referral from my dentist to get braces?
Nope! You can book an appointment directly with us either online or by calling our office. Your initial consultation appointment is free!
What happens at my first visit?
Your first visit is about getting to know you and your smile goals. It includes a free consultations with:
- Digital scans, photos, and x-rays (no goopy impressions!)
- A personalized treatment plan tailored specifically to you
- An insurance and payment review, along with various payment options
Payment and Insurance
How much does orthodontic treatment cost?
Costs vary depending on the complexity and length of your treatment. At Half Moon Orthodontics we offer flexible payment plans, direct insurance billing, and a free initial consultation to give you a clear idea of what to expect before you commit. Talk to us about 0% financing, initial payments as low as $300, and monthly payments as low as $150/month.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes, we are in-network with the majority of PPO plans. If your insurance covers orthodontic treatment, we’ll help you maximize your benefit to keep your costs low. We offer direct billing to insurance for your convenience.
Life With Braces
Will braces hurt?
You might feel some soreness after getting your braces on or after adjustments — kind of like a workout for your mouth. This can last from one, up to 5 days, depending on the patient! It’s normal, and goes away quickly. A soft diet, cool liquids (smoothies) and over-the-counter pain relief can help.
What foods should I avoid?
Sticky, crunchy, and chewy foods (like gum, popcorn, or hard candies) can damage your braces. You can still enjoy lots of foods such as pizza (just skip the crunchy crust), tacos (soft, not hard), chips (pringles, not tortilla chips), chicken wings (boneless!), etc.
Can I still drink coffee or wine with braces?
Yes, but be mindful! Dark beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine can stain the elastic ties around your brackets. Drinking through a straw and rinsing with water afterward can help reduce staining.
How do I keep my braces clean?
Brushing and flossing are more important than ever with braces. Our team will demonstrate how to keep your teeth and brackets clean using tools like Platypus flossers or interdental brushes.
What do I do if I have a loose bracket or poky wire?
If something breaks, feels loose, or is poking, don’t panic. Call or text us so we can guide you what to do next. In the meantime, use wax to cover sharp edges and reduce discomfort.
Life with clear aligners
How often do I need to wear my aligners?
You’ll need to wear your aligners 20–22 hours a day — basically all day and night, except when you’re eating, drinking anything but water, or brushing your teeth. The more consistently you wear them, the better (and faster) your results.
Can I eat and drink with aligners in?
Only water is safe to drink while wearing your aligners. Hot drinks can warp the plastic, and anything sugary or acidic can trap bacteria against your teeth. Always take them out when eating or drinking anything else.
How do I clean my aligners?
Rinse them regularly and brush them gently with a soft toothbrush and toothpaste or hand/dish soap. For a deeper clean, use aligner cleaning crystals or soak them in Retainer-Brite.
Will the aligners affect my speech?
You might notice a small lisp or slight change in your speech during the first few days. Don’t worry, most people adjust quickly as their tongue learns to work around the aligners.
What if I lose or damage an aligner?
Call us as soon as you can. In most cases, we can get you a replacement or let you know whether it’s safe to move on to your next set. Always keep your previous aligners, and only discard of them when instructed to
Orthodontics for Kids & Teens
What happens after I finish my orthodontic treatment?
The best way to find out is to book a free consultation at Half Moon Orthodontics. During your visit, we’ll examine your bite, take digital scans (no goopy impressions!), and walk you through your treatment options, whether it’s traditional braces, clear aligners, or something else.
What age should my child have their first orthodontic evaluation?
We recommend an orthodontic check-up around age 7. At this age, we can spot and gently guide developing issues—like crowding, bite problems, or jaw growth—with Phase 1 Treatment if needed. This early, interceptive care (usually between ages 7-10) helps set the stage for a healthier smile and can even shorten or simplify future treatment.
Are clear aligners a good option for teens?
Absolutely. If the patient is motivated to improve their smile, and they’ve demonstrated great responsibility in other aspects of life, they will be a great candidate for clear aligners. Clear aligners have amazing results in children and adults, as long as they are worn 20-22 hours/day, every day!
Will braces affect my child’s speech?
Some kids and teens may notice a temporary lisp or slight change in speech when braces are first placed, more often when there is an appliance (expander) in the roof of the mouth. This usually goes away within a few weeks as they adjust and build confidence.
Can my child still play sports with braces?
Absolutely. We’ll recommend specific mouthguards to protect their teeth and braces during sports or physical activities. No need to sit on the sidelines, they can keep playing safely.
Life After Braces or Aligners
What happens after I finish my orthodontic treatment?
Dr. Mody will review various retainer options with you (clear retainers, hawley retainers, or fixed retainers), and go over pros/cons of all options. For most people there will be a short period of time to wear the retainers full time, followed by wearing them only at night time.
Do I have to wear the retainers for the rest of my life?
No, you only have to wear them at night for as long as you want to keep your teeth straight! But really, if you stop wearing your retainers completely, do expect to see your teeth shift as your body continues to change as you age
I had braces as a teenager, and now as an adult, my teeth are out of place. What can I do?
It is relatively common for people to undergo another round of orthodontic treatment when they are adults– think of it as a revision. Generally the re-treatment is shorter than the first round. Come in for a consultation to determine what your exact treatment needs are!
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half moon orthodontics
29100 Portola Parkway
Suite A
Lake Forest, CA 92630
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Half Moon Orthodontics is proud to serve patients of all ages from Lake Forest, Irvine, Foothill Ranch, Mission Viejo, Tustin, and surrounding communities. If you have any questions, please contact our team and we’ll help you get the answers you need.
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