Parents comparing orthodontic practices in Chino run into the phrase constantly, usually without an explanation of what it actually means or whether it should affect their decision. This page explains the credential, what it does and does not tell you, and what a good orthodontic consultation should cover — so you can ask better questions wherever you go.
Four things sit behind the phrase. Only the second one is what “board-certified” specifically refers to.
Every orthodontist first qualifies as a dentist, then completes an additional two to three years of full-time residency in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. That residency is what makes someone an orthodontist rather than a dentist who does orthodontics. It is a requirement, not an optional extra.
Certification by the American Board of Orthodontics is separate and optional. It involves written and clinical examinations, including presenting completed treated cases for examination by peers, and it must be renewed periodically rather than held for life. Many excellent orthodontists never pursue it.
Whatever the credentials, the useful question is how a plan is arrived at. Good planning starts with records — photographs, imaging, and a bite assessment — and produces a recommendation you can follow, with the reasoning explained and the alternatives named.
Orthodontics changes. Aligner systems, imaging, and appliances have all moved considerably in the last decade. Certification renewal is one way of demonstrating currency, though continuing education is required of every licensed dentist regardless.
Where did you complete your orthodontic residency, and how long was it? · Are you board-certified, and if so is it current? · Who will actually see my child at each visit? · What records will you take before recommending anything? · What are the alternatives to what you are proposing, including waiting? · What happens if treatment does not track as planned? · What is included in the fee, and are retainers extra?
A full assessment of the bite, not just the front teeth · Digital imaging where it is needed to see roots and unerupted teeth · Photographs and a record of the starting position · A clear explanation of what is happening and why it matters · More than one option where more than one exists, including clear aligners and braces · Honest timing advice, including when waiting is better · Written costs before you commit
One thing worth saying plainly: board certification is a meaningful marker of commitment, but it is not the only one, and its absence does not indicate a poor orthodontist. Residency training, clinical experience with cases like your child’s, and whether you leave the consultation genuinely understanding the plan all matter at least as much. Ask the questions above at every practice you visit, and compare the answers rather than the credentials alone.
Six stages, whoever you choose. Knowing the shape of it makes the first consultation far less daunting.
A first look at your child’s bite and alignment, a conversation about what concerns you, and an honest answer on whether anything needs doing yet.
Usually 45 to 60 minutesPhotographs, digital imaging, and often a scan. These establish the starting point and reveal what is happening below the gumline, including teeth that have not come through.
A separate short visit, or same dayThe recommendation, the alternatives, the expected duration, and the cost in writing. This is the point to ask everything — nothing should start until you understand it.
Presented and discussed with youBraces or aligners, with regular adjustment or progress visits. Most cases run somewhere between twelve and thirty months depending on what is being corrected.
Visits every 4 to 10 weeksThe day everyone waits for. Records are taken again to compare against the start, and retainers are fitted straight away.
A single appointmentThe stage families underestimate. Teeth drift back without retainers, fastest in the first year. Retention is not an add-on — it is what makes the previous five stages hold.
Ongoing, reviewed periodicallyThe American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At that age the first adult molars and incisors have usually erupted, which lets us spot crossbites, crowding, and jaw-growth issues while they’re still simple to guide. Most 7-year-olds need nothing more than a follow-up visit a year later.
There is no single price, because cost depends on how much correction your child needs and which type of braces is used. You receive a written estimate at your free consultation showing the total, the insurance portion, and your monthly payment — before you commit to treatment. We accept Medi-Cal, most major PPO plans, and CareCredit financing.
Medi-Cal Dental (Denti-Cal) covers orthodontic treatment for children who meet California’s medical-necessity criteria, which are scored on the severity of the bite problem. We accept Medi-Cal, handle the qualifying evaluation, and will tell you upfront whether your child is likely to qualify.
Most children wear braces for 12 to 24 months. The exact length depends on how much movement is needed, whether the bite requires correction as well as the teeth, and how consistently your child follows instructions about elastics and care.
Placing braces doesn’t hurt — there are no needles and no drilling. Children typically feel pressure and general soreness for two to four days afterward, and for about a day after each adjustment. Soft foods and children’s pain reliever handle it comfortably.
Possibly not. A small number of 8-year-olds benefit from Phase 1 treatment for a crossbite, a narrow arch, or severe crowding. Most do better with a monitoring visit and full braces at 11 to 13. An evaluation is the only way to know which group your child is in.
No. Teenagers respond very well to orthodontic treatment. Treatment at 15 may take slightly longer than at 12 because less correction can come from natural jaw growth, but the results are excellent — and ceramic braces or Invisalign Teen are popular at this age.
Adjustment visits are scheduled every 4 to 8 weeks and take about 20 to 30 minutes. We book after 3:00 PM whenever possible so your child doesn’t miss school.
Avoid hard candy, ice, popcorn, nuts, caramel, taffy, gum, jerky, and hard crusty bread. Whole apples, carrots, and corn on the cob are fine if cut into pieces. Nearly everything else is allowed.
Call us at (909) 479-6030 — most bracket and wire problems are quick fixes and we’ll see your child before the next scheduled adjustment. Outside office hours, cover the spot with orthodontic wax and call in the morning.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Joshua Kohan, DMD — D.M.D., Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine, Say Cheese Kids Dental & Orthodontics, Chino, CA.
Last reviewed: 31 July 2026. This page is for general information and is not a substitute for an in-person examination.
Bring your child in for a free braces consultation. In about 45 minutes, Dr. Kohan will examine your child’s teeth and bite, explain what he sees in plain language, and tell you honestly whether treatment makes sense now, later, or not at all. You’ll leave with a written estimate and no obligation.
Call (909) 479-6030 or book online. We’ll find a time that works around school.
12413 Central Ave, Chino, CA 91710 · Medi-Cal & most PPO plans accepted · Se habla español
