Orthodontics
A straight smile is more than just an aesthetic goal — it’s a functional one. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, less prone to uneven wear, and put less stress on the jaw joints and supporting structures. Whether you’re a teenager looking to straighten your smile or an adult who’s been wanting to address a longstanding issue, orthodontic treatment can make a meaningful difference in both the look and the health of your smile.
We offer orthodontic care for patients of all ages, and we take a thorough, individualized approach — evaluating your teeth, bite, jaw, and facial structure before recommending a treatment plan. Our goal is always to achieve not just a straight smile, but a healthy, balanced bite that will serve you well for years to come.
Traditional Comprehensive Orthodontics and Braces
Traditional braces remain one of the most effective and time-tested methods for correcting a wide range of orthodontic issues — from simple crowding and spacing to more complex bite problems. Modern braces are lower-profile and more comfortable than those of previous generations, and they continue to be the preferred option for more complex cases.
The treatment process begins with a comprehensive evaluation that includes X-rays, photographs, and dental impressions or digital scans. This information is used to create a detailed treatment plan that outlines the movements your teeth need to make and the expected timeline.
Braces work by applying gentle, consistent pressure to the teeth over time, gradually moving them into their ideal positions. Treatment typically takes anywhere from 12 to 24 months, depending on the complexity of the case. Throughout treatment, we schedule regular adjustment appointments to monitor progress and make necessary modifications.
Once the active treatment phase is complete, retainers are provided to maintain the results and prevent the teeth from shifting back over time. Wearing your retainer as directed is one of the most important steps in ensuring that your orthodontic investment lasts.
Clear Aligners
For patients who prefer a more discreet orthodontic option, clear aligners offer an appealing alternative to traditional braces. We offer ClearCorrect aligners — a series of custom-made, removable, clear plastic trays that gradually shift your teeth into alignment without brackets or wires.
Each set of aligners is worn for approximately one to two weeks before moving on to the next set in the series. Because they are removable, aligners allow you to eat, drink, brush, and floss without the restrictions that come with fixed braces. They are also virtually invisible when worn, making them a popular choice for adults and older teenagers.
Clear aligner treatment is well-suited for mild to moderate orthodontic issues. During your consultation, we’ll assess whether clear aligners are the right fit for your specific needs and goals.
Space Maintainers
Space maintainers are orthodontic appliances used for younger patients who have lost a baby tooth earlier than expected. When a primary tooth is lost prematurely, the surrounding teeth can drift into the open space — potentially causing crowding and alignment problems when the permanent teeth eventually come in.
A space maintainer is placed to hold that gap open until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt. These appliances can be fixed (cemented in place by the dentist) or removable, depending on the child’s age and the specific situation. Once the permanent tooth begins to emerge, the space maintainer is removed.
Space maintainers are a simple, proactive measure that can prevent the need for more extensive orthodontic treatment later.
A Straighter Smile at Any Age
It’s never too late to pursue the smile you want. Orthodontic treatment is available for adults as well as children, and today’s options make it easier than ever to fit treatment into a busy life. If you’d like to learn more about straightening your smile — or if you have a child who may be ready for an orthodontic evaluation — we invite you to schedule a consultation. We’d be happy to walk you through the options and help you find the right path forward.