What treatment is right for me?
Most people can benefit from orthodontic treatment—some simply benefit more than others. For some, treatment is primarily about creating a smile they feel more confident sharing; for others, it can improve both the way their smile looks and the way their teeth and bite function. My job is to understand what makes your smile unique and determine whether orthodontic treatment can meaningfully benefit you.
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Braces are one of the most precise and versatile tools in orthodontics, giving us the ability to control tooth movement in incredibly detailed ways. They remain a great option for many children, teens, and adults—and sometimes they're simply the best tool for the job.
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Clear Aligners are more than a clear way to straighten teeth—they’re a different way to move them. We love clear aligners when they are the right clinical choice, but every smile is different, so we start with the diagnosis and your goals before deciding which treatment approach will give you the best result.
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Sometimes the best time to intervene is before all of the permanent teeth have erupted. Early Intervention or Phase 1 treatment can guide growth, create space, improve certain bites, and make future treatment more predictable—but early treatment isn't automatically necessary, and it doesn't automatically mean a second round of braces.
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Your smile doesn't stop changing when your braces or aligners come off. Teeth have a memory and naturally shift throughout life, which is why retention is an essential part of protecting your result. My philosophy is simple: the best retainer is the one you're actually going to wear—usually nighttime for a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontic Treatment
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Anywhere from about 6–30 months, depending on your goals. Every smile is different, so there’s no one-size-fits-all timeline. A simple touch-up or refresh for someone who has had orthodontic treatment before may take just a few months, while comprehensive treatment for someone who has never had orthodontic treatment may take closer to 18–30 months. Your timeline depends on what we’re trying to accomplish, how much movement is involved, and your individual smile. At your consultation, we’ll walk you through your personalized treatment plan and give you a better idea of what your timeline will look like.
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Absolutely not! We treat patients of all ages. Maybe you never had orthodontic treatment as a kid, or maybe your teeth have shifted over the years. Whatever brought you here, it’s never too late to invest in your smile. Helping someone finally achieve a smile they’ve dreamed about for years is one of my favorite parts of being an orthodontist. You deserve to smile, too.
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Every smile is different, so the cost of treatment depends on the type and complexity of care needed. Your consultation includes a personalized evaluation, and we'll provide a clear treatment fee and review your payment options before you get started. We believe achieving the smile you want shouldn't feel like a financial burden. Gil Orthodontics offers 0% financing, accepts most major credit cards and insurance plans, and accepts eligible Health Savings and Flexible Spending Account funds. Our team will work with you to find a payment option that makes orthodontic treatment feel achievable and comfortable for your family.
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Nope! You do not need a referral to schedule an orthodontic consultation. While we love working alongside your dentist, speech pathologist, ENT, and other healthcare providers, you are always welcome to reach out to us directly. If a referral or collaboration with another provider would be helpful for your care, we’re happy to coordinate along the way.