Orthodontic Services

There is no age limit for orthodontic treatment. While early evaluation in children is valuable because the jaw is still developing, adults can achieve excellent results at any age as long as their teeth and gums are in great health. Dr. Nelson evaluates alignment as part of every comprehensive exam and will raise the conversation if he sees bite or crowding concerns that orthodontic treatment could address. Many adult patients are surprised to learn that their alignment issues are contributing to problems like sensitivity, uneven wear, or jaw discomfort.

Crooked or crowded teeth create areas that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush or floss, allowing plaque to build up and increasing the long-term risk of decay and gum disease. An uneven bite distributes chewing forces unevenly, placing excess stress on specific teeth and often accelerating enamel wear. Over time, bite problems can also contribute to jaw joint discomfort, muscle tension, and nighttime grinding. Orthodontic correction addresses these functional issues alongside the cosmetic ones, making it a meaningful investment in long-term oral health.

Dr. Nelson will conduct a thorough evaluation and discuss the options most appropriate for each patient’s alignment concerns, age, lifestyle, and goals. Treatment recommendations are always coordinated with the patient’s broader oral health picture, and Dr. Nelson will explain what to expect at each stage before any plan is finalized.

A retainer is a custom-fitted appliance worn after orthodontic treatment to hold teeth in their corrected positions. Once active treatment ends, the bone and ligaments surrounding the teeth need time to stabilize around the new alignment. Without a retainer, natural forces from the tongue, lips, and chewing gradually push teeth back toward their original positions. This process, called relapse, is extremely common in patients who stop wearing their retainer. Retainers are available in removable and fixed varieties, and Dr. Nelson will recommend the type that best fits each patient’s lifestyle and risk of relapse.

The general guidance from orthodontic research is that retainer wear should continue indefinitely to fully protect results. Most patients begin wearing their retainer full-time immediately after treatment and transition to nighttime-only wear after several months, based on Dr. Nelson’s recommendation. Patients who stop wearing their retainer entirely, even years after completing treatment, are at real risk of losing the alignment they achieved. Dr. Nelson frames retention as the final and permanent phase of orthodontic care, not an afterthought.

A lost or broken retainer should be replaced as quickly as possible. Even a short period without a retainer can allow teeth to begin shifting, particularly in the months immediately following active treatment. Dr. Nelson’s team can fabricate a replacement retainer promptly. Patients who have gone without a retainer for an extended period may need to be re-evaluated to determine whether any movement has occurred and whether additional treatment is needed before a new retainer is made.

Treatment costs vary depending on the complexity of the case and the type of orthodontic solution recommended. Retainer fees are separate from active treatment costs and depend on the type of retainer selected. Some PPO insurance plans include orthodontic benefits, particularly for younger patients, and the practice accepts most major plans. CareCredit financing is available for patients who prefer to manage costs over time. Dr. Nelson’s team will provide a complete cost breakdown during the consultation so patients can plan with full information before committing to treatment.