Beaverton orthodontics covers everything from braces and clear aligners to early treatment for kids and adult cases. If you are weighing your options, trying to understand what treatment involves, or wondering who is a good candidate, you are in the right place. At Delplanche Orthodontics, Dr. John Delplanche is a board-certified orthodontist and Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, and he treats children, teens, and adults across the Beaverton area. Here is what to know before you book a consult.
What Is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is the dental specialty focused on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. Orthodontists use braces, clear aligners, and other appliances to move teeth into healthier positions. The goal is a bite that works well and a smile you feel good about.
How is an orthodontist different from a general dentist? General dentists handle cleanings, fillings, and overall oral health. Orthodontists finish another 2.5 to 3 years of specialty residency after dental school. That extra education focuses on how teeth move, how jaws grow, and how to guide both into proper alignment.
Common conditions orthodontists treat include:
- Crowding with teeth overlapping or twisted
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbite where upper teeth extend too far over lower teeth
- Underbite where lower teeth sit in front of upper teeth
- Crossbite when upper and lower teeth do not line up
- Open bite when front teeth do not meet biting down
Dr. Delplanche brings extensive training to every treatment plan and pairs it with a real commitment to each patient’s needs.
How Does Beaverton Orthodontics Treatment Work?
Beaverton orthodontics treatment follows a clear path from your first visit to your final result. You start with a free consult, get a custom plan, have your appliances placed, return for check-ins every few weeks, then move into retention to lock in results.
What Happens During the Free Consultation?
Treatment starts with a free consult where Dr. Delplanche examines your teeth, takes 3D imaging with the iTero digital scanner with no gooey impressions, and talks through your smile goals.
How Is the Treatment Plan Created?
Using your diagnostic records, Dr. Delplanche builds a plan made for your case. He explains your options, the estimated treatment time, and answers every question on your mind.
When Are the Appliances Placed?
Whether you go with metal braces, clear braces, or Invisalign, your appliances are placed or fitted during a comfortable visit. Some patients even qualify for same-day starts.
How Often Are Check-In Visits?
You will come in every 4 to 8 weeks for adjustments. These visits are usually quick and keep treatment on track.
What Is the Retention Phase?
Once your teeth reach their new spots, you wear retainers to hold the results. This phase is just as important as active treatment.
Most cases finish in 18 to 24 months. Simpler cases may wrap up sooner. Complex situations may need more time.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
Straightening teeth improves oral health, bite function, speech, and confidence. The payoff goes well beyond looks. When teeth and jaws work together properly, you protect your long-term health for years to come.
How Does Treatment Improve Oral Health?
Straight teeth are easier to clean. When teeth are not crowded or overlapping, brushing and flossing reach the spots that matter, which lowers cavity and gum disease risk. Properly aligned teeth also wear evenly, which helps prevent chips, cracks, and uneven enamel loss over time.
- Easier cleaning since straight teeth are simpler to brush and floss
- Long-term protection for your teeth against uneven wear and damage
- Healthier gums thanks to better access during home care and professional cleanings
What Are the Functional and Confidence Benefits?
A well-aligned bite works better day to day. Chewing is more efficient. Speech can improve. And the strain that comes with a misaligned bite often eases up.
- Better bite function makes chewing more efficient and comfortable
- Clearer speech for some patients who struggle with pronunciation
- Reduced jaw strain which can help prevent TMJ discomfort and headaches
- Confidence that follows you into social and professional moments because a smile you love changes how you feel
Beaverton Braces vs Invisalign vs Clear Braces: What Is the Difference?
Beaverton braces, Invisalign, and clear braces all straighten teeth but use different appliances. Metal braces work for the widest range of cases. Clear braces give you discretion with the reliability of fixed brackets. Invisalign uses removable trays that are nearly invisible. The right pick depends on your case and your lifestyle.
| Feature | Metal Braces | Clear Braces | Invisalign |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visibility | Most noticeable | Tooth-colored and subtle | Nearly invisible |
| Durability | Extremely strong | Strong but can stain | Removable trays |
| Best For | Complex cases and all ages | Patients wanting discretion with bracket reliability | Mild to moderate cases and lifestyle flexibility |
| Maintenance | Brush around brackets | Extra care to prevent staining | Remove to eat and clean |
| Compliance | Always working | Always working | Requires 20 to 22 hours of daily wear |
What Are Metal Braces?
Metal braces remain the most popular pick for good reason. Tried, true, and timeless. They are reliable, effective even for complex cases, and today’s brackets are smaller and more comfortable than they used to be. You can also customize the look with colored elastics.
How Do Clear Braces Compare?
Made from ceramic that blends with your teeth, clear braces offer the strength of traditional brackets with a more discreet look. They are a great middle ground for patients who want something less visible but still prefer a fixed appliance.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign uses custom-made removable clear trays that shift your teeth a little at a time. Eat what you want. Brush and floss normally. Most people will not even notice you are in treatment. Invisible trays, clear results.
Dr. Delplanche will recommend the option that fits your case best during your free consult.
What Affects the Cost of Beaverton Orthodontics?
Several factors influence what you pay for treatment. The biggest are case complexity, treatment type, treatment length, insurance coverage, and the financing options available at your practice.
Case Complexity
More severe crowding, bite issues, or jaw concerns usually mean longer treatment and more visits, which affects overall cost.
Treatment Type
Metal braces are often the most economical pick. Invisalign and clear braces may cost more depending on your specific case.
Treatment Duration
Longer treatment means more visits and adjustments. Most cases fall in the 18 to 24 month range. Some wrap up sooner. A few take longer.
Insurance Coverage
Most insurance plans with orthodontic benefits cover part of treatment. Delplanche Orthodontics files claims for you and offers a free insurance benefits check.
Financing Options
Braces can fit any budget. Delplanche Orthodontics offers customized financing including low down payments, extended payment plans, and in-house financing. The team works with your family to find a monthly amount that makes sense.
The best way to understand your investment is to schedule a free consult and get a real estimate for your case.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Beaverton Orthodontics?
Beaverton orthodontics works for children, teens, and adults. Anyone from age 7 to 97 with healthy teeth and gums can be a candidate. The right approach depends on age, growth stage, and the specific bite or alignment concern.
Can Children Get Orthodontic Treatment?
Yes. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends kids see an orthodontist by age 7. At that age enough permanent teeth have come in to spot developing issues like crossbites, crowding, or jaw growth problems. Early evaluation does not always mean early treatment, but it lets Dr. Delplanche track growth and step in at the right time. This approach is sometimes called Phase 1 treatment, and it can reduce or even prevent bigger problems later. Starting smiles smart matters.
Why Are the Teen Years Ideal?
The teen years are still the most common time for orthodontic treatment. Most permanent teeth are in, and jaw growth is still happening, which makes it an ideal window for correction. The team also works to make life easier for your teenager along the way.
Can Adults Get Braces?
It is never too late to have a smile you love. Adult orthodontics has grown a lot, and discreet options like Invisalign and clear braces make treatment appealing for professionals and anyone who skipped braces as a kid. Dr. Delplanche treats patients from age 7 all the way to 97.
Prerequisites for Treatment
- Healthy teeth and gums (active decay or gum disease should be treated first)
- Commitment to following care instructions
- Willingness to attend regular visits
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Most cases finish in 18 to 24 months, though every case is different. Dr. Delplanche provides an estimated timeline during your free consult and aims to finish on time while keeping the focus on quality results.
Does getting braces or Invisalign hurt?
When you first get your braces or start a new set of aligners, your teeth and mouth may feel a little tender. That is normal and usually fades within a few days. Over-the-counter medication and soft foods help during adjustment periods. Your mouth will not be sore forever.
How often do I need to visit the orthodontist?
Plan on visits every 4 to 8 weeks during active treatment. These check-ins are usually quick and they are essential for keeping your progress on track.
Can I play sports or instruments with braces?
Yes. A mouthguard is a good idea for contact sports to protect your braces and teeth. Most patients adjust to playing instruments within a week or two. Let the team know about your activities and they can give you specific tips.
What happens if I do not wear my retainer?
Your teeth can shift back toward their original positions without consistent retainer wear. After putting in the time on treatment, the retention phase protects your results. Wear your retainer as directed to keep your smile in place.
Is a virtual consultation available?
Yes. Delplanche Orthodontics offers virtual consult options for patients who want to start from home. You share photos and information about your smile goals, and the team follows up with next steps.
Where can I find Beaverton orthodontics?
Delplanche Orthodontics offers Beaverton orthodontics care with Dr. John Delplanche, a board-certified orthodontist. You can book a free consult to see your options, get a 3D scan, and learn what your treatment plan would look like.
How do I get started with orthodontic treatment?
The easiest way is to book a free consult with Dr. John Delplanche. You get a real look at your options, an honest read on your timeline, and friendly answers to every question. You deserve a smile you love, and the team would love to help you find the right fit.