Orthodontics for Teens and Adults in Wasilla, AK
Orthodontics is about more than straight teeth. At Valley Orthodontics in Wasilla, AK, we help teens and adults improve bite function, protect long-term oral health, and feel more confident every time they smile. Whether you are a parent searching for teen orthodontics in Wasilla or an adult finally ready to explore adult orthodontics, our top orthodontist Dr. Haines and Dr. Hartman, designs treatment around your goals, lifestyle, and schedule.
We offer a full range of options, from traditional braces to clear aligners, so you never have to settle for a one size fits all plan.
What Orthodontic Problems Can Treatment Fix?
Orthodontic care can correct many common issues for both teens and adults, including:
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Crooked or misaligned teeth
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Overcrowded teeth
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Gaps or spaces between teeth
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Overbite
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Underbite
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Crossbite
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Open bite
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Jaw misalignment
Whether your concern is cosmetic, functional, or both, we create a customized plan to address your specific needs.
Why Orthodontic Treatment Is Important
Orthodontics does more than improve how your smile looks. It also helps to:
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Make brushing and flossing more effective
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Lower the risk of cavities and gum disease
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Improve chewing and sometimes speech
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Reduce jaw strain and uneven tooth wear
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Support a healthier, more stable bite long term
A straight, well aligned smile often leads to higher self confidence at school, at work, and in social situations.
The Orthodontic Treatment Process
The orthodontic treatment process at Valley Orthodontics involves several key steps to ensure effective and lasting results:
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Initial Consultation: We examine your teeth and jaws, review your goals, and discuss options such as braces or clear aligners.
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Diagnostic Records: X-rays, photos, and digital scans help us design a precise treatment plan.
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Customized Treatment Plan: We map out how your teeth will move, how long treatment is expected to take, and which appliances are recommended.
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Active Treatment: Braces are placed or clear aligners are provided, and tooth movement begins.
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Regular Visits: You return for adjustments or new aligners so we can track progress and keep everything on schedule.
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Completion and Retainers: Once your teeth are aligned, we remove appliances and provide retainers to maintain your new smile.
How Can I Help Prevent Orthodontic Problems?
Good habits at any age support a healthy smile:
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Brush twice a day and floss daily
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Limit sugary snacks and drinks
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Avoid chewing ice or very hard foods that can damage teeth and braces
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Keep regular dental checkups and cleanings
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Schedule an early orthodontic evaluation for children around age seven
During treatment, we show teens and adults how to clean around brackets and wires or care for clear aligners, so results are as healthy as they are attractive.
Orthodontic Care for Teens
The pre teen and teen years are often the best time to begin orthodontic treatment. By ages 11 to 15, most permanent teeth have erupted, which makes it easier to:
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Spot crowding and crooked teeth
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Correct bite problems like overbite, underbite, or crossbite
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Close gaps and improve tooth alignment
Teens also adapt quickly to braces or aligners, and many of their friends are in treatment too, which helps it feel like a normal part of growing up.
Why Teen Orthodontics Matters
Treating alignment and bite issues during the teen years can:
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Guide jaw growth in a healthier direction
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Make teeth easier to clean and protect from decay
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Reduce the risk of uneven wear or chipped teeth
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Boost confidence at school, in activities, and in photos
If you are looking for teeth straightening for teenagers, we can recommend metal braces, ceramic braces, or clear aligners, depending on your teen’s needs and responsibility level.
Orthodontic Care for Adults
Orthodontic treatment is not just for teens. Many adults choose care to improve both function and appearance. We see adults who want to:
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Correct crowding or spacing that has bothered them for years
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Fix shifting teeth after earlier orthodontic treatment
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Relieve bite related discomfort or jaw strain
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Feel more confident with a straighter, more professional smile
Modern adult braces and clear braces for adults are more discreet and comfortable than ever, and clear aligners provide a nearly invisible option for many cases. It is never too late to invest in your smile and oral health.
FAQ
Many teens start treatment between ages 11 and 15, when most permanent teeth are in place and the jaws are still growing. This timing often allows teeth to move more efficiently and helps prevent more serious issues later.
No. In addition to standard metal braces, some patients can choose clear or ceramic braces or clear aligners. At your consultation, we explain which choices can safely and effectively treat your specific bite and alignment concerns.
It is normal to feel mild soreness when braces are placed or adjusted or when starting a new set of clear aligners. This usually fades within a few days and can be managed with soft foods and over the counter pain relievers if needed.
Yes. Healthy teeth can be moved at almost any age. Many adults improve their bite, protect their teeth from wear, and gain new confidence with treatment that fits their lifestyle.
Brush after meals when possible, floss daily, and use any special tools we recommend for cleaning around brackets or under wires. If you wear aligners, clean them regularly and remove them before eating. Keeping your regular dental cleanings is just as important during treatment.
Schedule Your Orthodontic Consultation
Whether you need teen or adult orthodontics in Wasilla for yourself, Valley Orthodontics is here to help.
Schedule a consultation today and let our team create a personalized plan to give you a healthier, straighter smile that lasts.