A straight, confident smile transforms not only your appearance but your entire sense of self-worth. When teeth are crowded, gapped, or misaligned, it affects how you speak, chew, and interact with others, creating challenges that extend far beyond cosmetic concerns. Modern orthodontic treatment offers solutions that work with your lifestyle, whether you’re a teenager getting ready for college or an adult advancing in your career.
At Red Rock Dental, Dr. Alan McCaffrey and Dr. Thomas Booker understand that orthodontic treatment is an investment in your long-term oral health and confidence. With over 20 years of combined experience and a commitment to conservative, minimally invasive techniques, our Las Vegas practice provides personalized orthodontic care that fits your unique needs and goals.
For a straighter, healthier smile.
Understanding Orthodontic Treatment Options
Orthodontic treatment has evolved significantly from the traditional metal braces many adults remember from their youth. Today’s options include clear aligners, ceramic braces, and other discreet solutions that straighten teeth without drawing unwanted attention. The key to successful treatment lies in choosing the right approach for your specific situation.
Clear aligners are popular among adults who want to change their smile without the appearance of traditional braces. These removable trays gradually move teeth into the proper position while allowing you to eat, brush, and floss normally.
The treatment process begins with an evaluation, including digital imaging and bite analysis. This allows us to create a treatment plan that addresses your unique concerns while considering factors like your age, lifestyle, and treatment goals.
The Importance of Proper Bite Alignment
Beyond creating an attractive smile, orthodontic treatment addresses functional issues that can impact your oral health for years to come. Malocclusion occurs when teeth don’t meet properly, creating problems with chewing, speaking, and cleaning your teeth effectively.
Crowded or crooked teeth are more challenging to clean, increasing your risk of decay and gum disease. When teeth don’t align properly, certain teeth may bear more pressure during chewing, leading to premature wear, cracks, or even tooth loss over time. Additionally, bite problems can contribute to jaw pain, headaches, and TMJ disorders.
Your overall facial harmony is significantly influenced by proper alignment.When teeth are positioned correctly, they provide better support for your lips and cheeks, creating a more youthful appearance. This is particularly important as we age and natural facial changes occur.
What to Expect During Orthodontic Treatment
You may expect the following during your orthodontic treatment:
Initial Consultation and Planning
Your orthodontic treatment begins with a thorough examination to assess your teeth, bite, and jaw alignment. Digital X-rays and impressions help create a detailed picture of your current situation and allow for precise treatment planning. During this appointment, you’ll discuss your concerns, goals, and lifestyle factors that might influence your treatment choice.
Treatment Timeline and Adjustments
Most treatments take between 12 and 24 months, depending on the complexity of your case and the type of treatment selected. Regular appointments every 4 to 6 weeks ensure your treatment progresses as it should and allow for necessary adjustments. Clear aligner patients typically receive multiple sets of trays to change at home according to their treatment schedule.
Throughout treatment, maintaining excellent oral hygiene becomes even more important. Your dental team will provide instructions for caring for your aligners to ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy during the alignment process.
Age Considerations for Orthodontic Treatment
While many associate orthodontics with teenagers, adults make up a substantial portion of orthodontic patients today. Adult treatment may take slightly longer than adolescent treatment because adult bones are fully developed, but the results are equally effective and long-lasting.
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Early evaluation allows for the identification of developing problems and can sometimes prevent more extensive treatment later. However, this doesn’t mean all children need immediate treatment; many cases are best addressed during the teenage years when most permanent teeth have erupted.
Adult orthodontic treatment requires some additional considerations, such as existing dental work, gum health, and bone density. However, age alone is rarely a barrier to successful treatment, and many adults find that the improved function and appearance of their smile significantly enhances their quality of life.
Maintaining Your Results After Treatment
The completion of active orthodontic treatment marks the beginning of the retention phase, which is essential for maintaining your new smile. Retainers help keep teeth in their proper positions while the surrounding bone and tissues adjust to the changes. Most patients wear retainers full-time initially, then transition to nighttime wear.
Consistent retainer use is essential because teeth have a natural tendency to shift throughout life. Factors like aging, wisdom teeth eruption, and changes in facial structure can all contribute to tooth movement. Following your dentist’s retainer instructions helps ensure your investment in orthodontic treatment provides lasting results.
Routine dental checkups and cleanings become even more important after orthodontic treatment. Professional cleanings help support the health of your newly aligned teeth and allow your dental team to monitor your bite and overall oral health over time.
Comprehensive Orthodontic Care at Red Rock Dental
Dr. McCaffrey and Dr. Booker bring decades of experience and a commitment to conservative dentistry to every orthodontic case. As members of multiple professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Nevada Dental Association, they stay current with the latest advances in orthodontic technology and techniques. Our practice’s focus on minimally invasive treatments means we prioritize solutions that preserve your natural tooth structure while achieving optimal results.
Located in Las Vegas’s Summerlin community, our practice offers personalized orthodontic care with the convenience of flexible scheduling and comprehensive treatment options. We work with most PPO insurance plans and offer financing through Cherry to make orthodontic treatment accessible for families throughout the Las Vegas area. Contact our office to schedule your orthodontic consultation.
No Insurance? We’ve Got You Covered
While we accept many dental insurance plans, you can still see an emergency dentist even if you have no insurance.
At Red Rock Dental, we make urgent care accessible — You can pay out of pocket with cash or credit card.
Call Now For Emergencies
(702) 243-8788