Orthodontics
Braces for Adults
It’s never too late to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Many adults choose braces to correct crooked teeth, improve bite alignment, and enhance confidence in both personal and professional settings. Modern orthodontic options are more discreet and comfortable than ever before.
At our Bellevue office, we offer metal and ceramic braces designed for adult lifestyles. Whether your goal is improved function, aesthetics, or long-term oral health, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs and schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long do adult braces take?
Treatment time varies, but most adults wear braces for 12–24 months depending on the complexity of the case.
Are braces uncomfortable?
You may feel mild soreness at first, but most patients adjust quickly. Today’s brackets and wires are smoother and more comfortable than older styles.
Can I still eat my favorite foods?
You’ll need to avoid sticky or hard foods that can damage your braces, but most meals can be enjoyed with a few simple adjustments.
Do braces work as well for adults as for kids?
Yes — adult teeth move just as effectively. In some cases, treatment may take slightly longer due to mature bone structure, but results are excellent.
Braces for Kids
Early orthodontic care sets the stage for a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles. Braces for children can correct crowding, spacing, and bite problems before they become more serious. By guiding jaw and tooth development at the right age, we can often shorten future treatment time and improve long-term results.
We make orthodontic visits positive and comfortable for kids. Our team takes time to explain each step, helping children feel confident and excited about their new smiles.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What age should my child see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an evaluation by age 7, even if baby teeth are still present.
Do braces hurt?
Children may feel some pressure or tightness for a few days after adjustments, but discomfort is mild and temporary.
Can my child still play sports?
Absolutely — we recommend a custom mouthguard to protect their teeth and braces during activity.
How long will my child need braces?
Most treatments last 12–24 months, depending on growth, oral habits, and the type of correction needed.
Clear Aligners
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Retainers
After orthodontic treatment, retainers play a key role in maintaining your beautiful new smile. They prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions as your mouth adjusts to the changes.
We offer both removable and fixed retainers to meet your needs and preferences. During your visit, we’ll discuss which type works best for you and provide guidance on how to keep it clean and effective.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long do I have to wear my retainer?
You’ll wear it full-time at first, then transition to nighttime wear as directed. Retainers are typically worn indefinitely at night to maintain results.
What happens if I lose or break my retainer?
Contact us right away — we can replace it quickly to prevent your teeth from shifting.
How do I clean my retainer?
Rinse daily, brush gently with a soft toothbrush, and occasionally soak it in a retainer cleaner or mild denture solution.
Can I eat with my retainer in?
Removable retainers should be taken out during meals to avoid damage and keep them clean.
Smile Correction
Smile correction combines the art and science of orthodontics to align your teeth and improve facial balance. Whether you’re dealing with crowding, gaps, or bite misalignment, customized orthodontic treatment can dramatically enhance both appearance and function.
We use advanced techniques and technology to ensure efficient, comfortable results. From braces to clear aligners, your treatment will be tailored to your goals for a confident, natural-looking smile.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What’s the difference between smile correction and cosmetic dentistry?
Smile correction focuses on aligning teeth and jaws, while cosmetic treatments like veneers enhance surface appearance.
How long does smile correction take?
Treatment time depends on the complexity of the case, but most patients see noticeable improvement within a few months.
Can adults and teens both get smile correction?
Yes — orthodontic solutions are effective for all ages.
Will I need to wear retainers afterward?
Yes, retainers are essential to maintaining your new smile after treatment.
Teeth alignments
Properly aligned teeth don’t just look great — they’re easier to clean and function better for chewing and speaking. Misalignment can cause premature wear, gum problems, and jaw discomfort over time.
Our orthodontic treatments correct these issues gently and effectively. Whether through braces or clear aligners, we’ll design a plan that fits your lifestyle and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I know if my teeth need alignment?
If your teeth are crowded, spaced, or your bite feels uneven, you may benefit from orthodontic treatment.
Are aligners or braces better?
It depends on your case. Clear aligners are discreet and removable, while braces are often more effective for complex corrections.
How long does alignment take?
Most patients complete treatment in 6–24 months, depending on their needs.
Will alignment improve my oral health?
Yes — aligned teeth are easier to brush and floss, reducing your risk of cavities and gum disease.
Limited orthodontic treatment for adults and kids
Limited orthodontic treatment focuses on improving specific areas rather than the entire bite. It’s ideal for patients with minor spacing, crowding, or aesthetic concerns who want faster results.
Because it targets a smaller number of teeth, limited treatment is typically completed in a shorter time and at a lower cost — perfect for adults or kids who need small adjustments.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long does limited orthodontic treatment take?
Most limited treatments are completed in 6–12 months.
Is this a good option for cosmetic improvements only?
Yes — it’s often chosen for front-tooth alignment or mild aesthetic changes.
Can limited treatment be done with clear aligners?
Absolutely. Many limited treatments can be completed with clear aligners for a discreet experience.
Will I still need a retainer afterward?
Yes, retainers are always necessary to maintain alignment once treatment is complete.
Impression-free Orthodontics with 3D digital scanning
Say goodbye to messy impressions! Our state-of-the-art 3D digital scanning technology creates precise digital models of your teeth in minutes. This advanced imaging allows for faster, more accurate treatment planning — without the discomfort of traditional molds.
Digital scans improve comfort, accuracy, and communication. You’ll even be able to preview your potential results before treatment begins, helping you feel confident about your smile journey.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is digital scanning safe?
Yes — it’s quick, painless, and uses safe, non-radiation optical imaging.
How long does a scan take?
Most scans take only a few minutes, and you can breathe and swallow normally during the process.
What are the benefits over traditional impressions?
Digital scans are cleaner, faster, more precise, and eliminate the gag-inducing impression materials.
Can my digital scan be used for clear aligners?
Yes! 3D scans are the foundation for custom aligners, retainers, and other orthodontic appliances.
Free Consultation
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Metal or Ceramic Braces
Modern braces are more effective and discreet than ever before. At our Bellevue office, we offer both metal and ceramic braces to help patients of all ages achieve beautifully aligned smiles. Metal braces remain the gold standard for strength and precision, while ceramic braces offer a more subtle, tooth-colored appearance that blends naturally with your smile.
Whether you choose traditional metal or aesthetic ceramic brackets, both options provide reliable, predictable results for even the most complex orthodontic cases. We’ll help you decide which is best for your goals, lifestyle, and budget — ensuring a comfortable experience and a stunning final result.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What’s the difference between metal and ceramic braces?
Metal braces are made of stainless steel and are slightly more durable, while ceramic braces use clear or tooth-colored materials for a more discreet look.
Do ceramic braces work as well as metal braces?
Yes — both are highly effective. Ceramic braces may require a bit more care, but they move teeth just as efficiently.
Will ceramic braces stain?
The brackets themselves resist staining, though the clear elastic ties may discolor slightly between visits. We replace them at each adjustment to keep your braces looking fresh.
Are metal braces still a good option?
Absolutely. Metal braces are strong, cost-effective, and ideal for patients who want reliable results with minimal maintenance.