# Kirk Orthodontics --- ## Pages - [Patient Forms](https://www.smilesbykirk.com/patient-forms/): You may access the following forms to assist us with your care. Please complete the following forms, and click the... - [FAQ](https://www.smilesbykirk.com/faq/) - [Financial](https://www.smilesbykirk.com/office/financial/): It is our mission to provide you with affordable, high-quality treatment that fits your budget! Your treatment plan will include... - [Office Policies & Mission](https://www.smilesbykirk.com/office/office-policies-mission/) - [Oral Hygiene](https://www.smilesbykirk.com/oral-hygiene/): Now that your braces are in place, it is very important to maintain a good oral hygiene regimen throughout the... - [Foods to Avoid](https://www.smilesbykirk.com/foods-to-avoid/): We encourage patients to quit bad habits, such as fingernail biting, pencil and pen chewing, and chewing on foreign objects.... - [Emergency Orthodontist in Petaluma, CA](https://www.smilesbykirk.com/emergencies/): At Kirk Orthodontics, we understand that orthodontic emergencies can be stressful, and we’re here to provide prompt assistance. If you’re... - [Orthognathic Surgery](https://www.smilesbykirk.com/treatments/orthognathic-surgery/): Corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) treats and corrects abnormalities of the facial bones, specifically the jaws and the teeth. Often,... - [Orthodontic Appliances](https://www.smilesbykirk.com/treatments/orthodontic-appliances/): MARA The Mandibular Anterior Repositioning Appliance (MARA) is suitable for treating class II malocclusions, which are characterized by protrusion of... - [Retention](https://www.smilesbykirk.com/treatments/retention/) - [First Visit](https://www.smilesbykirk.com/first-visit/) - [Clear Aligners](https://www.smilesbykirk.com/treatments/clear-aligners/) - [Common Problems](https://www.smilesbykirk.com/common-problems/) - [Types of Braces](https://www.smilesbykirk.com/treatments/types-of-braces/) - [Adult Treatment](https://www.smilesbykirk.com/treatments/adult-treatment/): Clear Aligners & Braces for Adults More and more adults today are seeking orthodontic treatment to improve their smile. In... - [Adolescent Treatment](https://www.smilesbykirk.com/treatments/adolescent-treatment/): Orthodontic Treatment for Teens Typically, Phase II treatment is normal orthodontic treatment which involves placing braces on the patient once... - [Early Treatment](https://www.smilesbykirk.com/treatments/early-treatment/): Orthodontic Treatment for Kids When Is the Best Time to Begin Orthodontics? Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at... - [Treatments](https://www.smilesbykirk.com/treatments/) - [Meet the Doctor](https://www.smilesbykirk.com/about-our-doctor/) - [Office](https://www.smilesbykirk.com/office/) - [Sitemap](https://www.smilesbykirk.com/sitemap/): XML Sitemap - [Contact](https://www.smilesbykirk.com/contact/) - [Home](https://www.smilesbykirk.com/) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.smilesbykirk.com/privacy-policy/): Last updated: 1/31/2025 This Privacy Policy describes Our policies and procedures on the collection, use and disclosure of Your information... --- ## Posts --- # # Detailed Content ## Pages You may access the following forms to assist us with your care. Please complete the following forms, and click the "Submit" button at the bottom of each form. New Patient Information - English New Patient Information - Spanish *We are committed to keeping your personal information secure. All of our online forms are submitted via a secure connection and are HIPAA compliant. --- It is our mission to provide you with affordable, high-quality treatment that fits your budget! Your treatment plan will include a breakdown of all applicable fees, and we will inform you of all costs before treatment is administered. We offer a variety of payment options to meet your needs. Affordable Financing Options Don’t let finances stand in your way for achieving the beautiful, healthy smile you deserve! We are pleased to offer financing options with low monthly payments that make your treatment more affordable. This flexible payment option allows you to pay for your treatment over a period of time so you can focus on what matters most – keeping your smile healthy! Insurance Policy If your insurance covers orthodontic treatment, you will receive the benefit of reduced personal costs. Many insurance policies have a lifetime orthodontic benefit that is distinct from regular dental insurance. Insurance policies vary, so we will review your insurance to determine the appropriate course of action. Once treatment has started, we will file your claims. To help us with your insurance filing, please complete the insurance questions on our questionnaire. Please remember that orthodontic insurance is a benefit for you or your child. If, during the course of treatment, your benefits change, the financially responsible party is accountable for all charges. --- Now that your braces are in place, it is very important to maintain a good oral hygiene regimen throughout the length of your treatment. Braces, wires, bands, and retainers can all trap food particles and make it difficult to brush or floss away plaque. Careful brushing and flossing, preferably after every meal and snack, is the best way to prevent plaque build-up, tooth deca,y and gum disease. Brushing While Wearing Braces Especially during orthodontic treatment, brush your teeth four times daily to avoid the accumulation of food particles in your teeth and braces: In the morning after breakfast After lunch or right after school After dinner At bedtime Flossing while Wearing Braces Flossing takes more time and patience when you are wearing braces, but it is important to floss your teeth every day. We recommend flossing at night to make sure your teeth are clean before you go to bed. Use a reusable floss threader to floss under your archwire. Pull a small length of floss from the dispenser through the threader, and slide it up and down along the front of each tooth. Use care around your archwire, and do not floss too forcefully around it or put too much pressure on it. Rinsing with an Antibacterial Mouthwash To reduce inflammation to your gums and cheeks, we suggest using a hydrogen peroxide antiseptic mouth rinse. This rinse will help prevent infection and decrease irritation that may develop from your braces. Rinse your mouth with two teaspoons of the hydrogen... --- We encourage patients to quit bad habits, such as fingernail biting, pencil and pen chewing, and chewing on foreign objects. All of these activities can break or damage your braces. It's important to regularly check your braces for bent or loose wires and brackets. If you have a loose/broken wire or bracket, please call our office immediately to arrange a repair appointment. --- At Kirk Orthodontics, we understand that orthodontic emergencies can be stressful, and we're here to provide prompt assistance. If you're dealing with a broken appliance or severe pain, please contact us immediately. We'll prioritize your needs and do our best to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Even if you have an upcoming regular appointment, notify us right away if repairs are needed. While many orthodontic issues can be managed at home temporarily, it's important to arrange for a repair appointment to ensure lasting solutions. Below are some guidelines to help you manage minor problems until your visit. Common Orthodontic Emergencies Lost Separator Losing a separator is common and usually not a major concern. However, please call our office to determine if it needs replacement. Sore Teeth/Discomfort with Orthodontic Treatment It's normal to experience soreness after getting braces or following an adjustment. To ease the discomfort, take acetaminophen or non-aspirin pain relievers. Rinsing your mouth with lukewarm saltwater (one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of water) can also help. Additionally, using a warm washcloth or heating pad on your jaw may provide relief. Wire Irritations If a wire is causing irritation, try moving it away from the affected area with a cotton swab or eraser. If it doesn’t move, cover the end with cotton or wax. For painful wires, carefully cut them with sterilized nail clippers or scissors. Loose Bracket Contact us to see if the bracket needs refitting. If necessary, you can use sterilized fingernail clippers to... --- Corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) treats and corrects abnormalities of the facial bones, specifically the jaws and the teeth. Often, these abnormalities cause difficulty associated with chewing, talking, sleeping and other routine activities. Orthognathic surgery corrects these problems and, in conjunction with orthodontic treatment, will improve the overall appearance of the facial profile. Using the latest in digital imaging technology, we will demonstrate the overall functional and aesthetic benefits of orthognathic surgery. Computerized treatment planning minimizes treatment times, recovery periods and the overall efficacy of your surgery. State-of-the-art materials such as titanium plates and miniature screws provide stability, strength and predictability to your treatment. These advances in technology, procedures and equipment reduce post-surgical recovery time, thus allowing patients to return to their normal routines soon after the surgery. Orthognathic surgery may be unnecessary if orthodontic treatment can correct the problem. With the latest advances in orthodontics, this is sometimes the case. We will determine if orthognathic surgery is the correct treatment option for you. --- MARA The Mandibular Anterior Repositioning Appliance (MARA) is suitable for treating class II malocclusions, which are characterized by protrusion of the upper front teeth or a lower jaw and or teeth that are positioned back in regard to the upper jaw and or teeth. Using MARA, class II malocclusions are treated more effectively. The MARA is reliable and reduces treatment time. Generally, the appliance is secured to the patient's first molars via stainless steel crowns, which are easy to fit and retain more, compared to bands. The appliance features no removable parts, which means patient compliance is not an issue. Also, the orthodontist can more accurately predict the length of treatment. The upper "elbows" can be removed; which facilitates comfort and advanced adjustments. The appliance can be advanced on one side or both sides. Sore spots are minimal. Initially, it may feel strange to hold your jaw forward while eating, but within two weeks, chewing will become more natural. We recommend you eat soft foods initially. Do not chew on the elbows. Avoiding candy, hard foods, etc. throughout treatment will help prevent breakage of the appliance. MARA is generally worn between 15 to 18 months. Your improvements will be noticed immediately! Lower Lingual Arch A Lower Lingual Arch acts as a space maintainer to keep the molars from drifting forward, and prevent them from blocking the space where permanent teeth will eventually erupt. This appliance is commonly used in cases of premature loss of baby tooth or when the lower... --- Clear Aligners in Petaluma CA | Kirk Orthodontics Book an Appointment 3835 Cypress Dr., Suite 208, Petaluma, CA | 707-762-8047 Patient Portal Patient Forms Pay Bill Contact Us Home Office Meet the Doctor Financial Office Policies & Mission Treatments Early Treatment Adolescent Treatment Adult Treatment Types of Braces Clear Aligners Retention Orthodontic Appliances Orthognathic Surgery Patients First Visit FAQ Make a Payment Common Problems Emergencies Oral Hygiene Foods to Avoid Contact Book an Appointment Skip to content Clear Aligners Treatments Clear Aligners Our clear aligners, similar to Invisalign®, straighten your teeth without wires and brackets, using a series of clear, customized, removable appliances called aligners. It’s virtually undetectable, which means hardly anyone will know that you’re straightening your teeth. Spark Clear Aligners What Are The Benefits Of Spark Aligners? There are many advantages to choosing Spark over other types of braces. Here are just a few: The clear aligners give you a low-key, hassle-free solution that can even fit your busy schedule! The self-directed nature of clear aligners means that you control your own treatment process – no more adjustments, you simply switch to a new tray! It also doesn’t hurt that these tiny little trays will blend right in with any type of outfit! Why Should You Consider Spark Clear Aligners? By now, you’ve heard all about clear aligners. As an alternative to traditional metal braces, clear aligners are a great way to straighten your teeth without interrupting your daily routine. With so many options available today, it can... --- Clear Aligners & Braces for Adults More and more adults today are seeking orthodontic treatment to improve their smile. In fact, about 25 percent of our patients are adults! We offer a full range of treatments specifically designed for adults – leaving you with a dramatically different smile and healthier bite. Orthodontic treatment is not only designed to improve the appearance of your smile, but improve the health of your teeth and gums as well. By seeking orthodontic treatment as an adult you can possibly avoid severe tooth decay, gum and bone loss, irregular wear of the tooth enamel, and TMJ/TMD pain. Often times, because adults usually are more compliant in their orthodontic treatment, their results turn out far greater than with a child and/or teen. By following the instructions provided by your orthodontist, you not only increase your chances for amazing results, but could also shorten your treatment time as well. We offer a wide selection of braces to meet the individual needs and desires of each of our adult patients. From traditional metal braces and ceramic braces to clear aligners that can be worn to improve mild cases of misaligned teeth, we are confident we can help you achieve and maintain the beautiful, healthy smile you’ve always dreamed about. Don’t ever feel it’s too late to enhance your smile. Schedule your free consultation today and let us help you start your journey to receiving a beautiful, straight smile! --- Orthodontic Treatment for Teens Typically, Phase II treatment is normal orthodontic treatment which involves placing braces on the patient once his or her permanent teeth have erupted. The braces straighten the permanent teeth and finish correctly aligning the patient’s jaw. By age 12, most, if not all, permanent teeth have erupted and are in place, which is when crooked teeth, gaps and bad bites can easily be detected. These problems will hardly ever correct themselves, so this is when most parents decide to seek orthodontic treatment for their children. For many teenagers, wearing braces is a part of life – an important part of life because a beautiful and healthy smile can boost one’s self-confidence. Children at this age are growing rapidly, and orthodontists can usually take advantage of these growth spurts to help shape the bite and teeth correctly. Pre-teens and teenagers have high metabolisms, which can help shorten overall treatment time and reduce the discomfort of orthodontic treatment. --- Orthodontic Treatment for Kids When Is the Best Time to Begin Orthodontics? Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. Beginning treatment at this time ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment. What Are the Benefits of Early Orthodontic Evaluation? Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal. Why Is Age 7 Considered the Optimal Time for Screening? By the age of 7, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite. During this time, an orthodontist can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. For example, the presence of erupting incisors can indicate possible overbite, open bite, crowding or gummy smiles. Timely screening increases the chances for an incredible smile. What Are the Advantages of Interceptive Treatment? Some of the most direct results of interceptive treatment are: Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth Creating facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front... --- Treatments - Kirk Orthodontics Book an Appointment 3835 Cypress Dr., Suite 208, Petaluma, CA | 707-762-8047 Patient Portal Patient Forms Pay Bill Contact Us Home Office Meet the Doctor Financial Office Policies & Mission Treatments Early Treatment Adolescent Treatment Adult Treatment Types of Braces Clear Aligners Retention Orthodontic Appliances Orthognathic Surgery Patients First Visit FAQ Make a Payment Common Problems Emergencies Oral Hygiene Foods to Avoid Contact Book an Appointment Skip to content Treatments Treatments What Treatment Optionis Right for You? We provide braces and retainers for patients of all ages, from children to adults, who want dazzling, beautiful smiles. For over 16 years we have been proud to provide thousands of Sonoma and Marin County patients with top-notch orthodontic care. Early Treatment Adolescent Treatment Adult Treatment Braces Spark Clear Aligners Retention Orthognathic Surgery Early Treatment Treatments Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. Beginning treatment at this time ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense. Learn More Adolescent Treatment Treatments Typically, Phase II treatment is normal orthodontic treatment which involves placing braces on the patient once his or her permanent teeth have erupted. Learn More Adult Treatment Treatments More and more adults today are seeking orthodontic treatment to improve their smile. In fact, about 25 percent of our patients are adults! Learn More Braces Treatments A smile is a universal language. More importantly, smiling is great for your health too. That’s why... --- PagesCommon ProblemsContactEmergency Orthodontist in Petaluma, CAFAQFirst VisitFoods to AvoidHomeMeet the DoctorOfficeFinancialOffice Policies & MissionOral HygienePatient FormsPrivacy PolicySitemapTreatmentsAdolescent TreatmentAdult TreatmentClear AlignersEarly TreatmentOrthodontic AppliancesOrthognathic SurgeryRetentionTypes of BracesPosts XML Sitemap --- Contact - Kirk Orthodontics Book an Appointment 3835 Cypress Dr., Suite 208, Petaluma, CA | 707-762-8047 Patient Portal Patient Forms Pay Bill Contact Us Home Office Meet the Doctor Financial Office Policies & Mission Treatments Early Treatment Adolescent Treatment Adult Treatment Types of Braces Clear Aligners Retention Orthodontic Appliances Orthognathic Surgery Patients First Visit FAQ Make a Payment Common Problems Emergencies Oral Hygiene Foods to Avoid Contact Book an Appointment Skip to content Contact Orthodontist in Petaluma We are always available to talk with you and address your concerns. Please feel free to contact us during work hours through our office phone number. After hours, you may contact us through our answering service. Book an Appointment 3835 Cypress Dr., Suite 208, Petaluma, CA 94954 View Map Phone: 707-762-8047 Monday to Thursday: 8:30AM-5PM "*" indicates required fields Δ Patient Name* First Last Email* PhoneHow Did You Hear About Us?How Did You Hear About Us?Online Search/GoogleFacebook/Social MediaEmailReferralOtherComments Schedule Today At your first visit we will: Review your treatment needs and desires. Take complimentary low-dose digital X-rays and diagnostic photos. Custom tailor a treatment plan specific to you. Answer all your questions. This appointment will take approximately one hour and, as a convenience to you, if recommended by our doctors, we offer SAME DAY BRACES! First Visit Based on 116 reviewsSee all reviewsreview us onCoach ElizabethMy 10 year old daughter was afraid of the orthodontist before we started going to Dr Kirk. Dr Kirk and his staff have been amazing in their care... --- Orthodontist in Petaluma, CA | Kirk Orthodontics Book an Appointment 3835 Cypress Dr., Suite 208, Petaluma, CA | 707-762-8047 Patient Portal Patient Forms Pay Bill Contact Us Home Office Meet the Doctor Financial Office Policies & Mission Treatments Early Treatment Adolescent Treatment Adult Treatment Types of Braces Clear Aligners Retention Orthodontic Appliances Orthognathic Surgery Patients First Visit FAQ Make a Payment Common Problems Emergencies Oral Hygiene Foods to Avoid Contact Book an Appointment Skip to content Experience LifeSmiling Free Consultation Meet the Doctor Why Us? Types of Braces Clear Aligners Book Now First Consultation For Free StartToday Welcome to KirkOrthodontics Welcome to the office of Dr. Blair A. Kirk, your friendly, professional orthodontic specialist in Petaluma, California. We provide exceptional and affordable care utilizing state-of-the art orthodontic treatment options, including braces, clear aligners (Spark), and retainers. We provide treatments for patients of all ages, from children to adults, who want dazzling, beautiful smiles. Since 1997, we have been proud to provide thousands of Sonoma and Marin County patients with top-notch orthodontic care. Dr. Kirk and his team are dedicated to orthodontic excellence, with care rendered in a fun, family-like atmosphere. In fact, many of our patients give us the highest compliment we can receive by referring their family and friends to us! Dr. Kirk habla Español! Schedule Today Reasons to Choose Us Kirk Orthodontics is the only full-time, one-doctor orthodontic practice in Petaluma. Dr. Kirk has over 20 years of experience in creating beautiful smiles. We use the most advanced... --- Last updated: 1/31/2025 This Privacy Policy describes Our policies and procedures on the collection, use and disclosure of Your information when You use the Service and tells You about Your privacy rights and how the law protects You. We use Your Personal data to provide and improve the Service. By using the Service, You agree to the collection and use of information in accordance with this Privacy Policy. Interpretation and Definitions Interpretation The words of which the initial letter is capitalized have meanings defined under the following conditions. The following definitions shall have the same meaning regardless of whether they appear in singular or in plural. Definitions For the purposes of this Privacy Policy: Account means a unique account created for You to access our Service or parts of our Service. Business, for the purpose of the CCPA (California Consumer Privacy Act), refers to the Company as the legal entity that collects Consumers’ personal information and determines the purposes and means of the processing of Consumers’ personal information, or on behalf of which such information is collected and that alone, or jointly with others, determines the purposes and means of the processing of consumers’ personal information, that does business in the State of California. Company (referred to as either “the Company”, “We”, “Us” or “Our” in this Agreement) refers to Kirk Orthodontics, 3835 Cypress Dr. , Suite 208,Petaluma, CA 94954. Consumer, for the purpose of the CCPA (California Consumer Privacy Act), means a natural person who is a California resident.... --- --- ## Posts ---