Frequently Asked Questions

Questions? We have answers.

Everything you want to know about orthodontic treatment, our practice, and what to expect — answered plainly.

Getting Started

How do I schedule a consultation?

You can schedule online through our website, call our office at (281) 819-3332, or fill out the contact form on our Contact page. The first visit is always free.

Is the consultation really free?

Yes — completely free, with no obligation to start treatment. You will meet Dr. Asbita, get a full examination, and leave with a clear understanding of your options and costs. There is no pressure to decide anything that day.

How long does the first visit take?

Plan for about 60 to 90 minutes. That includes digital records, an examination by Dr. Asbita, a full treatment discussion, and a cost review with our treatment coordinator.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

A photo ID, your dental insurance card if applicable, and any recent dental X-rays you have. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. If you filled out forms online beforehand, you are already ahead of the game.

At what age should my child first see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial evaluation by age 7. This does not mean treatment starts at 7 — most children do not begin treatment until 11 or 12. But early evaluation lets Dr. Asbita monitor jaw development and catch any issues while they are still easy to address.

Do you see adult patients?

Absolutely. Adults make up a growing share of our patients. There is no age limit for orthodontic treatment — the main requirement is healthy teeth and gums. Dr. Asbita treats adults with both braces and clear aligners routinely.

Treatment Options

What types of braces do you offer?

We offer traditional metal braces and clear ceramic braces. Metal braces are the most affordable and work for all levels of complexity. Ceramic braces use tooth-colored brackets that blend with your smile for a more discreet look while delivering the same clinical results.

Do you offer clear aligners?

Yes. We offer clear aligner therapy for teens and adults. Aligners are virtually invisible, removable for eating and brushing, and work for a wide range of alignment issues from simple to complex. Dr. Asbita plans every aligner case himself.

How do I know if I am a candidate for clear aligners?

Most patients with mild to moderate crowding, spacing, or bite issues are good candidates. Severe skeletal problems may still require braces. Dr. Asbita will evaluate your case at your free consultation and give you a direct, honest recommendation.

What is Phase 1 treatment?

Phase 1 is early orthodontic treatment, typically for children between ages 7 and 10, aimed at guiding jaw development before all permanent teeth arrive. It is not recommended for every child — only when a developing problem would be harder to correct later if left untreated.

Do you provide retainers after treatment?

Yes. Retainers are a required part of every completed orthodontic case. Teeth will shift without them. Dr. Asbita will provide retainers at the end of treatment and make sure you understand exactly how and when to wear them.

Cost & Insurance

How much does orthodontic treatment cost?

Cost depends on the type of treatment and the complexity of your case. As a general range: metal braces run $3,500–$5,500, ceramic braces $4,000–$6,000, and clear aligners $4,500–$6,500. You will receive an exact cost summary at your free consultation.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes. We offer flexible in-house payment plans that spread your treatment cost over low monthly payments. Low and $0 down payment options are available for qualifying patients. Good orthodontic care should be within reach for every family.

Do you accept dental insurance?

Yes. We work with most major dental insurance plans that include orthodontic benefits. Our team verifies your benefits before your consultation so there are no surprises. We also file claims directly on your behalf.

Can I use my FSA or HSA?

Yes. Orthodontic treatment is an eligible expense under most FSA and HSA plans. Using pre-tax dollars effectively reduces your out-of-pocket cost. If you have a year-end FSA deadline, let us know — we will do our best to accommodate.

Do you offer a family discount?

Yes. When two or more family members begin treatment at Asbita Orthodontics, we offer a multi-patient discount. Ask about this at your consultation.

What if I have no insurance?

Many of our patients pay entirely out of pocket and find our payment plans very manageable. Insurance is helpful but never a requirement. We will make sure treatment is financially accessible for you.

During Treatment

How often will I need to come in for appointments?

Braces appointments are typically every 6 to 8 weeks for adjustments. Clear aligner check-ins are usually every 8 to 10 weeks. Most appointments are brief — under 30 minutes for a routine adjustment.

Will braces or aligners hurt?

There is typically some soreness for a few days after braces are placed and after each adjustment — this is normal and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. Aligners can cause pressure when switching to a new tray, which usually passes within a day or two.

Are there foods I cannot eat with braces?

Yes. Hard, sticky, and crunchy foods — like hard candy, popcorn, bagels, and ice — can break brackets or bend wires. We provide a full list at your bonding appointment. Clear aligner patients have no food restrictions since the trays are removed before eating.

How do I brush and floss with braces?

Brushing after every meal is important with braces. Flossing requires threading under the wire, which takes a little practice but becomes routine quickly. We provide the tools you need and walk you through the technique at your bonding appointment.

What happens if a bracket breaks or a wire pops out?

Call our office as soon as possible. Broken brackets and loose wires are common and easy to fix — they just need to be addressed promptly so they do not delay your treatment progress. We keep time available for these situations.

Can I still play sports during treatment?

Yes. We strongly recommend a mouthguard for any contact sport. We can advise you on the right type depending on whether you are in braces or aligners.

About Dr. Asbita & Our Practice

What is a board-certified orthodontist?

Board certification is a voluntary credential awarded by the American Board of Orthodontics after a rigorous clinical examination. It is above and beyond what is required to practice orthodontics. Fewer than one-third of practicing orthodontists complete it. Dr. Asbita earned his in 2024.

What is the difference between an orthodontist and a general dentist?

Orthodontists complete 2–3 years of full-time specialty residency after dental school, focused entirely on how teeth move and how jaws develop. A general dentist who offers braces or aligners does not have this training. Orthodontics is the only thing we do at Asbita Orthodontics.

Where did Dr. Asbita train?

Dr. Asbita completed both his dental degree and his orthodontic residency at the University of Connecticut. He finished his residency in 2022 and became board certified by the American Board of Orthodontics in 2024.

Do you speak Spanish?

Yes. Se habla español. We are proud to serve Spanish-speaking families throughout northwest Houston and will make sure every patient and family member feels fully informed and comfortable throughout their care.

Where is the office located?

Asbita Orthodontics is located in Hockley, Texas — conveniently serving families from Cypress, Tomball, Magnolia, Hempstead, Waller, Prairie View, Pinehurst, and the broader northwest Houston corridor.

What are your office hours?

Monday through Thursday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Friday 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM. We are closed on weekends. Evening appointments may be available on select days — call us to ask.

Getting Started

How do I schedule a consultation?

You can schedule online through our website, call our office at (281) 819-3332, or fill out the contact form on our Contact page. The first visit is always free.

Is the consultation really free?

Yes — completely free, with no obligation to start treatment. You will meet Dr. Asbita, get a full examination, and leave with a clear understanding of your options and costs. There is no pressure to decide anything that day.

How long does the first visit take?

Plan for about 60 to 90 minutes. That includes digital records, an examination by Dr. Asbita, a full treatment discussion, and a cost review with our treatment coordinator.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

A photo ID, your dental insurance card if applicable, and any recent dental X-rays you have. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. If you filled out forms online beforehand, you are already ahead of the game.

At what age should my child first see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial evaluation by age 7. This does not mean treatment starts at 7 — most children do not begin treatment until 11 or 12. But early evaluation lets Dr. Asbita monitor jaw development and catch any issues while they are still easy to address.

Do you see adult patients?

Absolutely. Adults make up a growing share of our patients. There is no age limit for orthodontic treatment — the main requirement is healthy teeth and gums. Dr. Asbita treats adults with both braces and clear aligners routinely.

Treatment Options

What types of braces do you offer?

We offer traditional metal braces and clear ceramic braces. Metal braces are the most affordable and work for all levels of complexity. Ceramic braces use tooth-colored brackets that blend with your smile for a more discreet look while delivering the same clinical results.

Do you offer clear aligners?

Yes. We offer clear aligner therapy for teens and adults. Aligners are virtually invisible, removable for eating and brushing, and work for a wide range of alignment issues from simple to complex. Dr. Asbita plans every aligner case himself.

How do I know if I am a candidate for clear aligners?

Most patients with mild to moderate crowding, spacing, or bite issues are good candidates. Severe skeletal problems may still require braces. Dr. Asbita will evaluate your case at your free consultation and give you a direct, honest recommendation.

What is Phase 1 treatment?

Phase 1 is early orthodontic treatment, typically for children between ages 7 and 10, aimed at guiding jaw development before all permanent teeth arrive. It is not recommended for every child — only when a developing problem would be harder to correct later if left untreated.

Do you provide retainers after treatment?

Yes. Retainers are a required part of every completed orthodontic case. Teeth will shift without them. Dr. Asbita will provide retainers at the end of treatment and make sure you understand exactly how and when to wear them.

Cost & Insurance

How much does orthodontic treatment cost?

Cost depends on the type of treatment and the complexity of your case. As a general range: metal braces run $3,500–$5,500, ceramic braces $4,000–$6,000, and clear aligners $4,500–$6,500. You will receive an exact cost summary at your free consultation.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes. We offer flexible in-house payment plans that spread your treatment cost over low monthly payments. Low and $0 down payment options are available for qualifying patients. Good orthodontic care should be within reach for every family.

Do you accept dental insurance?

Yes. We work with most major dental insurance plans that include orthodontic benefits. Our team verifies your benefits before your consultation so there are no surprises. We also file claims directly on your behalf.

Can I use my FSA or HSA?

Yes. Orthodontic treatment is an eligible expense under most FSA and HSA plans. Using pre-tax dollars effectively reduces your out-of-pocket cost. If you have a year-end FSA deadline, let us know — we will do our best to accommodate.

Do you offer a family discount?

Yes. When two or more family members begin treatment at Asbita Orthodontics, we offer a multi-patient discount. Ask about this at your consultation.

What if I have no insurance?

Many of our patients pay entirely out of pocket and find our payment plans very manageable. Insurance is helpful but never a requirement. We will make sure treatment is financially accessible for you.

During Treatment

How often will I need to come in for appointments?

Braces appointments are typically every 6 to 8 weeks for adjustments. Clear aligner check-ins are usually every 8 to 10 weeks. Most appointments are brief — under 30 minutes for a routine adjustment.

Will braces or aligners hurt?

There is typically some soreness for a few days after braces are placed and after each adjustment — this is normal and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. Aligners can cause pressure when switching to a new tray, which usually passes within a day or two.

Are there foods I cannot eat with braces?

Yes. Hard, sticky, and crunchy foods — like hard candy, popcorn, bagels, and ice — can break brackets or bend wires. We provide a full list at your bonding appointment. Clear aligner patients have no food restrictions since the trays are removed before eating.

How do I brush and floss with braces?

Brushing after every meal is important with braces. Flossing requires threading under the wire, which takes a little practice but becomes routine quickly. We provide the tools you need and walk you through the technique at your bonding appointment.

What happens if a bracket breaks or a wire pops out?

Call our office as soon as possible. Broken brackets and loose wires are common and easy to fix — they just need to be addressed promptly so they do not delay your treatment progress. We keep time available for these situations.

Can I still play sports during treatment?

Yes. We strongly recommend a mouthguard for any contact sport. We can advise you on the right type depending on whether you are in braces or aligners.

About Dr. Asbita & Our Practice

What is a board-certified orthodontist?

Board certification is a voluntary credential awarded by the American Board of Orthodontics after a rigorous clinical examination. It is above and beyond what is required to practice orthodontics. Fewer than one-third of practicing orthodontists complete it. Dr. Asbita earned his in 2024.

What is the difference between an orthodontist and a general dentist?

Orthodontists complete 2–3 years of full-time specialty residency after dental school, focused entirely on how teeth move and how jaws develop. A general dentist who offers braces or aligners does not have this training. Orthodontics is the only thing we do at Asbita Orthodontics.

Where did Dr. Asbita train?

Dr. Asbita completed both his dental degree and his orthodontic residency at the University of Connecticut. He finished his residency in 2022 and became board certified by the American Board of Orthodontics in 2024.

Do you speak Spanish?

Yes. Se habla español. We are proud to serve Spanish-speaking families throughout northwest Houston and will make sure every patient and family member feels fully informed and comfortable throughout their care.

Where is the office located?

Asbita Orthodontics is located in Hockley, Texas — conveniently serving families from Cypress, Tomball, Magnolia, Hempstead, Waller, Prairie View, Pinehurst, and the broader northwest Houston corridor.

What are your office hours?

Monday through Thursday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Friday 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM. We are closed on weekends. Evening appointments may be available on select days — call us to ask.

Still have a question?

If you did not find what you were looking for, reach out directly. Our team responds quickly and Dr. Asbita is happy to answer questions before you ever set foot in the office.

Get Started

Ready for a Healthier, More Confident Smile?

Schedule your free consultation today. No pressure. No obligation. Just a warm conversation about your smile.