Malibu, California · Answers, plainly
Malibu dental FAQ — the questions, answered
Ten questions we hear most — about aligners, sleep care, and the matching process itself. Answered the way we'd answer them in the room, and reviewed by Dr. Robert Perkins, DDS.
Reviewed by Dr. Robert Perkins, DDS — AADSM member · Invisalign-certified provider · Malibu practice
Content reviewed by Dr. Robert Perkins, DDS
AADSM member practice
Invisalign-certified provider
Malibu, California
The full list
Ten questions, ten honest answers
If your question isn't here, the free consultation is the short route — the office typically calls within the hour.
Reviewed by Dr. Robert Perkins, DDS
AADSM member · Invisalign-certified provider · Malibu practice
Where relevant, this page references guidance from the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, the American Sleep Apnea Association, and the Sleep Foundation.
What happens at the free consultation?
The practice examines you, captures the records it needs — typically photos, X-rays, and a digital scan for aligners — and listens to what you're hoping for. You leave with a picture of your options. No treatment begins that day, and nothing is owed.
Are clear aligners uncomfortable?
Most people feel brief pressure as each new tray seats — a sign the stage is working — and it settles quickly. Smooth plastic means there are no brackets or wires to irritate, and the practice can review any sore spot at a check-in.
How many hours a day are aligners actually worn?
Aligners do their work while they're in, so they're worn through most of the day and night — removed for meals, then cleaned and returned. The wear schedule is part of the plan, and the practice sets expectations at the consult.
I wore braces years ago. Can aligners still work for me?
Often, yes — teeth can drift over the years, and many aligner plans are built around exactly that. Bring your orthodontic history if you have it; the examination settles what's realistic.
Will aligners change how I speak?
Some people notice a subtle adjustment period in the first days — most voices return to normal quickly once speaking happens with the trays in. If it matters for your work, mention it at the consultation.
How do I clean and care for aligners?
The routine is simple: brush the trays gently with a soft brush and clear soap or the recommended cleaner, rinse with cool water, and keep them in their case when they're out. Hot water and toothpaste are both harder on the plastic than they look.
How do I care for an oral appliance?
Rinse it in the morning, brush it gently, and store it dry in its case. Avoid heat — hot water can change the fit — and bring the appliance to follow-up visits so the practice can check it alongside your progress.
How long does a custom oral appliance last?
With consistent care, a quality appliance serves for years — though wear, dental changes, and jaw position can all shift over time. The practice checks the fit at follow-ups and advises if the device ever needs refreshing.
Can I bring my own sleep study or records?
Please do. A prior sleep study, imaging, or orthodontic records help the practice move faster — and if your records live with another office, the team can tell you what's worth requesting.
Do I need to live in Malibu to be matched?
No — the service is built around Malibu and the PCH corridor, but the ZIP check happens at intake. If you're nearby enough for comfortable visits, the door is open; enter your ZIP on the form and the office confirms from there.
Ready when you are
Still curious? Ask a human
One short form, and a member of the office calls you — typically within the hour. Questions welcome; obligation never.
Free · No obligation
Request your free consultation
Takes about 30 seconds. The practice — never a call center — follows up personally.