Choosing an orthodontist is a big decision for your family, so it’s worth doing a little homework. An orthodontist finds and corrects misaligned teeth and bite concerns that can affect chewing, speaking, and confidence. Kids, teens, and adults can all benefit from an evaluation at different stages of life.
Great Smiles Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics offers pediatric dentistry and orthodontic care in one place.
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
An orthodontist moves teeth and guides jaw development to create a healthy bite. Your orthodontist checks your teeth, jaw growth, and alignment to address concerns like crowding, gaps, crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites.
Good treatment supports proper alignment and function. Recommendations vary based on your age, growth, gum health, and bite pattern.
When Should You See an Orthodontist?
Kids benefit from monitoring while their teeth and jaws develop. An early evaluation can catch concerns as they start, though it doesn’t always mean treatment begins right away.
Teens often start comprehensive care like braces or clear aligners once their permanent teeth come in. Adults visit the orthodontist for alignment, comfort, or confidence. Braces and aligners are great options at any age, and an evaluation helps your orthodontist find the right fit for you.
What Should You Look for in an Orthodontist?
You want an orthodontist who listens, offers clear guidance, and respects your family. Use this checklist to compare practices:
- Confirm the orthodontist is licensed and completed an accredited orthodontic program.
- Ask about experience with your age group and concerns like crowding, gaps, and bite problems.
- Ask whether they offer metal, ceramic, or clear braces and retainers.
- Expect a personalized plan based on your dental needs, jaw growth, and goals.
- Ask which tests or images help shape your treatment plan.
- Confirm they care for kids, teens, and adults.
- Make sure they schedule regular progress visits and plan for retainers.
- Ask how they handle questions and urgent concerns.
- Choose a provider who welcomes your feedback.
What Happens During an Orthodontic Consultation?
Your consultation helps you understand your concerns and your options. Every visit is a little different depending on age and needs, but most follow a similar path:
- Review your dental and medical history, including past treatment and medications
- Check your tooth alignment and function
- Look at jaw and facial development
- Take diagnostic images or records, if needed
- Talk through your orthodontic concerns and what they mean
- Review your treatment options, including the pros and cons of each
- Outline an estimated treatment plan
- Discuss costs, insurance, and payment options
What Are the Different Orthodontic Treatment Options?
Every smile has unique needs. Modern practices offer several treatment types, and the right choice depends on your diagnosis, age, and how complex your bite is.
- Traditional metal braces move teeth gradually and work well for many complex cases.
- Clear or ceramic braces work like metal braces but blend in with your natural teeth.
- Clear aligners use removable trays and work well when you wear them as directed.
Aligners aren’t the right fit for every case, so your orthodontist will assess your bite first. Some patients need a combination of approaches over time.
After active treatment, retainers hold your teeth in place and protect your results.
How Much Does Orthodontic Treatment Cost?
Your cost depends on how complex your case is, the type of treatment, and whether you choose braces or clear aligners. Treatment length, diagnostic records, retainers, insurance coverage, payment plans, and any additional dental services also play a role.
There’s no one-size-fits-all price. A good practice gives you a personalized quote after learning about your needs. Ask what the fee covers, and look beyond the lowest advertised price when you choose a provider.
Why Choose Great Smiles Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics?
At Great Smiles Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, you’ll find pediatric dentistry and orthodontics under one roof. We offer orthodontic treatment for kids, teens, and adults, with a variety of treatment options.
Every recommendation is tailored to you, and we provide preventive and comprehensive dental care for your whole family. We believe in educating both patients and parents, and we stay with you through treatment and retention so your smile lasts.
What Questions Should You Ask Before Choosing an Orthodontist?
- What orthodontic treatments do you offer?
- Do you have experience with my age group?
- What concern will my treatment address?
- How long will treatment take?
- How often will I need appointments?
- What does the treatment fee include?
- Does insurance cover my treatment?
- What payment options do you offer?
- Will I get retainers after treatment?
- What follow-up care is included?
- What should I expect during treatment?
Locations We Serve
We proudly serve families in Asheville, North Asheville, Waynesville, Marion, and Sylva.
FAQs
Why should I choose an orthodontist in Asheville?
Look for an Asheville orthodontist who explains your options, answers your questions, and offers personalized treatment for kids, teens, and adults.
Which orthodontist is best in North Asheville?
The right orthodontist for you is one you trust, based on credentials, experience, and how well they understand your family’s smile goals. Do your research and schedule a consultation at a practice like Great Smiles.
Which orthodontist is best in Asheville?
The right orthodontist in Asheville listens to your concerns, explains your options, and builds a personalized treatment plan that fits your dental needs and budget.
How do I choose an orthodontist in Asheville?
Research credentials, treatment options, costs, and whether the practice treats kids, teens, and adults. Great Smiles checks all of those boxes.
Why should I choose an orthodontist in Sylva?
Choose a Sylva orthodontist who makes treatment comfortable and offers flexible options that fit your family’s needs, like our team at Great Smiles.
Why should I choose an orthodontist in Waynesville?
Look for a Waynesville orthodontist who offers braces, clear braces, retainers, and helpful guidance for kids, teens, and adults working toward healthier, more confident smiles.
Which orthodontist is best in Sylva?
The right orthodontist in Sylva evaluates your bite thoroughly, explains your options clearly, and respects your schedule, comfort, and budget questions. Reach out to Great Smiles Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics to learn more.
Which orthodontist is best in Waynesville?
A good Waynesville orthodontist has solid credentials and experience, and makes you feel informed and supported every step of the way.
Why should I choose an orthodontist in Marion?
Choose a Marion orthodontist who walks you through your options and builds a unique plan for kids, teens, or adults. Contact Great Smiles Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics to get started.
Ready to find the right fit for your family? Schedule a consultation with our team today.