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Dr. Glenn P. Frial, D.D.S., M.S.

Orthodontist

Dr. Glenn Frial grew up in the Orange County area. He attended UCLA, where he received a BS in Biology. Dr. Frial also attended dental school at UCLA, where he graduated at the top of his class and received numerous honors and awards. After his dental training, he went on to specialize in orthodontics at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). At UCSF, he earned both a postdoctoral specialty certificate in orthodontics and a MS in Oral Biology.

At the office of Dr. Frial, your smile is our top priority! We are delighted to provide first-class service to you and your family at each visit. We work together to provide personalized service and an enjoyable orthodontic experience. We have helped thousands of people make the most of their smile and we believe everyone deserves the benefits of a beautiful smile.
Learn More About Me
35 years Experience
Dr. Glenn P. Frial, D.D.S., M.S.
  • Laguna Niguel, CA
  • UCLA
  • Accepting new patients

Question about Invisalign

If you already started Invisalign treatment, Im not sure why youre waiting for your aligners. Invisalign delivers all of your aligners to your doctor all at once unless you are READ MORE
If you already started Invisalign treatment, Im not sure why youre waiting for your aligners. Invisalign delivers all of your aligners to your doctor all at once unless you are referring to a retainer or a replacement aligner. With that said, you should be wearing the last aligner you have while you are waiting for your aligners. This will keep your teeth from relapsing. After you are completely finished with Invisalign or any type of orthodontic treatment, you must wear a retainer to keep your teeth in their corrected position. Follow your doctors retainer protocol. Hope this helps, Glenn P. Frial DDS, MS, APC Orthodontic Specialist

Can you get Invisalign treatment with crowns?

The simple answer, yes you can. However, the attachments (buttons) do not bond well to crowns, so it can affect the treatment planning. If you havent gotten the crown but plan READ MORE
The simple answer, yes you can. However, the attachments (buttons) do not bond well to crowns, so it can affect the treatment planning. If you havent gotten the crown but plan to, it is important to include the orthodontist in the treatment planning. If the crown can be delayed, it is often better to do Invisalign or braces before the crown to get proper tooth and bite alignment. Best, Glenn P. Frial, DDS, MS, APC

Can I get a brace with one missing tooth?

You can absolutely get braces. Depending on your bite, your orthodontist will determine whether to close the space or plan for an implant/bridge for the missing tooth among other READ MORE
You can absolutely get braces. Depending on your bite, your orthodontist will determine whether to close the space or plan for an implant/bridge for the missing tooth among other possible options. Glenn P. Frial, DDS, MS, APC Specialist in Orthodontics

Do braces still work without tightening?

It will work up to a point, then you will need your braces tightened again. When you come in for your appointment, your orthodontist will either re-tighten your braces or change READ MORE
It will work up to a point, then you will need your braces tightened again. When you come in for your appointment, your orthodontist will either re-tighten your braces or change to a bigger wire. Sometimes teeth can move past their intended movement. Therefore, it's important to see your orthodontist on your regularly scheduled intervals to keep your treatment on track.

Best regards,
Glenn P. Frial, DDS, MS, APC

Do braces self tighten?

No, they do not. The braces will move your teeth to a certain point, then they will need to be “re-tightened”. If the current wire in your mouth has done its maximum movement, READ MORE
No, they do not. The braces will move your teeth to a certain point, then they will need to be “re-tightened”. If the current wire in your mouth has done its maximum movement, your orthodontist will change to a stronger wire. To keep your treatment on track, t is important to see your orthodontist at your regularly scheduled intervals.



Take care,

Glenn P. Frial, DDS, MS, APC

How do I know when I'm ready for braces?

There are many factors involved. It is possible you may need early Interceptive Orthodontics (AKA Phase One) to correct the jaws or a harmful habit or you can just wait until all READ MORE
There are many factors involved. It is possible you may need early Interceptive Orthodontics (AKA Phase One) to correct the jaws or a harmful habit or you can just wait until all the permanent teeth erupt. The American Association of Orthodontist recommends that all children be seen by an orthodontist by the age of 7. We can tell by that age if your jaws are developing correctly or not. The best thing for you to do is to make an appointment with an orthodontist and they will tell you if you are ready. Even if you are not ready, they can put you on Recall appointments where you come in every 6 months or longer to monitor. Don’t think of it as a waste of time if you are not ready, it gives the orthodontist valuable information of how your teeth and jaws are developing. It will also give you peace of mind.

Best of luck,

Glenn P. Frial, DDS, MS, APC

What happens if you get a cavity with braces?

It is always best to fix a cavity before starting braces if it is known beforehand. However, if a cavity forms during the process, it can still be restored. It will take some coordination READ MORE
It is always best to fix a cavity before starting braces if it is known beforehand. However, if a cavity forms during the process, it can still be restored. It will take some coordination with your orthodontist and dentist. Depending on your situation, the dentist may request the wire to be removed and possibly the braces on the tooth with the cavity. Speak to your orthodontist and dentist and they will let you know.

Sincerely,

Glenn P. Frial, DDS, MS, APC

Is 35 too old for braces?

You are never too old for braces. As long as you have healthy teeth and gums, you are a candidate. If you do have periodontal (gum and bone) issues, you may need treatment and/or READ MORE
You are never too old for braces. As long as you have healthy teeth and gums, you are a candidate. If you do have periodontal (gum and bone) issues, you may need treatment and/or clearance first by a periodontist. To give you perspective, my oldest orthodontic patient was 76 years old. Schedule an exam with an orthodontist to see what your treatment may entail.

Best of luck,
Glenn P. Frial DDS, MS, APC

How long do you wear braces after jaw surgery?

Each person’s case is different, but it usually is between 6 to 12 months. We do what is called presurgical orthodontics to remove all decompensation that has happened over the READ MORE
Each person’s case is different, but it usually is between 6 to 12 months. We do what is called presurgical orthodontics to remove all decompensation that has happened over the years. So many times, you will look worse before the surgery. For example, if you have an “overbite,” it may get bigger after our decompensation of the teeth. This will allow the oral surgeon to do the maximum amount of movement. After surgery, we then do postsurgical orthodontics to finalize the bite as well as fine tune. We are also watching for stability. Depending on the type of surgery and how much still needs to be done, it can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months as I mentioned.
I hope this helps.

Best regards,

Glenn P. Frial, DDS, MS, APC

How do I stop my teeth from shifting without a retainer?

Unfortunately, we use our teeth every day. Therefore, teeth will shift throughout our lifetime whether or not we had orthodontic treatment. The only way to keep teeth from shifting READ MORE
Unfortunately, we use our teeth every day. Therefore, teeth will shift throughout our lifetime whether or not we had orthodontic treatment. The only way to keep teeth from shifting is to wear a retainer for life. I recommend full time wear for the first 6 months and then only night time while sleeping thereafter.

Best,

Glenn P. Frial DDS, MS, APC

Can I have braces for 6 months?

It depends on your case. If you have a good bite and mild to moderate crowding, it is possible. However if you have other issues and your bite is off, it will take longer. Teeth READ MORE
It depends on your case. If you have a good bite and mild to moderate crowding, it is possible. However if you have other issues and your bite is off, it will take longer. Teeth straightening happens fairly quickly, but fixing the bite takes longer. Some people just want their teeth straight, but having a good bite is important for the health and longevity of the teeth. You would need to be evaluated by an orthodontist to truly determine the length of your specific treatment.



Best regards,

Glenn P. Frial, DDS, MS, APC

Is Invisalign safe for children?

Yes, Invisalign is absolutely safe for children. Besides Invisalign being more cosmetic than braces, there is the added benefit of brushing normal and eating normal with no food READ MORE
Yes, Invisalign is absolutely safe for children. Besides Invisalign being more cosmetic than braces, there is the added benefit of brushing normal and eating normal with no food restrictions since it is removable. However because it is removable, it requires more responsibility. They need to make sure they wear it 20-22 hrs/day and they can lose it. We talk to our patients about having a routine. As long as your son has a good routine, he will be just fine.



Glenn P. Frial, DDS, MS

How long do I need to wear my retainer for?

Many, many years ago, orthodontist typically would say you only need to wear your retainers for 2 years; or until you turn 18 years old, if you had orthodontic treatment as a child. READ MORE
Many, many years ago, orthodontist typically would say you only need to wear your retainers for 2 years; or until you turn 18 years old, if you had orthodontic treatment as a child. However, teeth will always shift throughout your lifetime whether or not you had orthodontic treatment. Therefore, I tell my patients that they need to wear their retainers full-time for 6 months then at night . . . forever. Best regards, Dr. Glenn Frial

My daughter is 4 years old and is used to sucking her thumb. Will it cause her teeth to grow outwards?

Yes, prolonged thumb sucking can cause the upper teeth to protrude. It can also create an open bite where the front teeth don't touch among other things. Most children stop between READ MORE
Yes, prolonged thumb sucking can cause the upper teeth to protrude. It can also create an open bite where the front teeth don't touch among other things. Most children stop between the ages of 2 and 4. Positive reinforcement is usually the best way to help them stop. For example, instead of getting angry when they suck their thumb, praise them when they are not. Your dentist can encourage your child to stop and give some tips like putting a band-aid on the thumb as a reminder. As a child gets older and they continue, consult with an orthodontist as a habit appliance may be needed.

My son's permanent teeth are growing crooked. Should I take him to an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children be screened by an orthodontist by age 7. We can spot early jaw growth problems as well teeth issue at an READ MORE
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children be screened by an orthodontist by age 7. We can spot early jaw growth problems as well teeth issue at an early age. In some circumstances, early intervention treatment may be needed, which is what we call Phase One treatment. In other cases, treatment may not be needed at this time, but seeing an orthodontist will give you peace of mind. Hope this helps, Dr. Frial

How long does it take for teeth to set with retainers?

It normally takes a minimum of 6 months for the teeth and bone to stabilize. It can sometimes take longer, especially for adults. Therefore, my retainer protocol is to wear a retainer READ MORE
It normally takes a minimum of 6 months for the teeth and bone to stabilize. It can sometimes take longer, especially for adults. Therefore, my retainer protocol is to wear a retainer full-time for a minimum of 6 months after braces are removed. After 6 months, if the teeth have stabilized, then night time wear is prescribed forever. Teeth will always move throughout life, even if you have never worn braces. There are many things that can cause teeth to move (e.g., tongue thrust, playing an instrument like a flute, chewing more on one side, etc.). Therefore, the only way to keep your teeth straight is to wear your retainers at night forever. That is exactly what I do.

Hope this helps,

Dr. Frial

After removing my braces, my cheeks have swollen up. What could be the reason?

This is very unusual. There are many factors that could contribute to this, so I would consult with your orthodontist as soon as possible. It is possible you may have had an allergic READ MORE
This is very unusual. There are many factors that could contribute to this, so I would consult with your orthodontist as soon as possible. It is possible you may have had an allergic reaction to materials used that day like the latex gloves or impression materials.

Can I get braces for my upper teeth only?

Every patient's case is different. In some cases, patients can have upper or lower treatment only. However, most cases require both upper and lower treatment to get proper teeth READ MORE
Every patient's case is different. In some cases, patients can have upper or lower treatment only. However, most cases require both upper and lower treatment to get proper teeth alignment and bite correction. Consult with an orthodontist to see your options.

My son is 8 years and his permanent teeth are crooked. Is it too early to go to an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children be screened by an orthodontist by age 7. The dentist who saw him may be right, but an orthodontist can spot READ MORE
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children be screened by an orthodontist by age 7. The dentist who saw him may be right, but an orthodontist can spot jaw growth or teeth eruption problems at an early age. Sometimes patients can benefit from early intervention as we can guide the growth of the jaws to help permanent teeth come in properly. Also early intervention can prevent more extensive treatment later in life that may require pulling of permanent teeth or even jaw surgery.

My son's permanent teeth are growing crooked. What should I do?

Back teeth that are growing incorrectly normally don't straighten on their own, so I would see an orthodontist for an exam. The orthodontist will be able to tell you if early intervention READ MORE
Back teeth that are growing incorrectly normally don't straighten on their own, so I would see an orthodontist for an exam. The orthodontist will be able to tell you if early intervention is necessary or they may just to do follow up visits to monitor the growth of the teeth.