Orthodontics in Springfield, OR

Orthodontic treatment can improve tooth alignment, bite function and the overall balance of your smile. At Epperson Orthodontics, our orthodontist provides orthodontics in Springfield, OR, for children, teens and adults using braces, clear aligners and other orthodontic appliances based on each patient’s needs.

Whether you are concerned about crowded or spaced teeth, an overbite, underbite, crossbite or another alignment issue, your treatment begins with a personalized evaluation and a clear explanation of your options.

Orthodontic Services We Provide

Orthodontics Explained

Orthodontics is the dental specialty focused on aligning teeth and improving how the upper and lower teeth and jaws fit together. Treatment may use braces, clear aligners or other appliances to gradually guide teeth into improved positions.

Orthodontic treatment can address concerns such as:

• Crowding

• Spacing

• Overbites

• Underbites

• Crossbites

• Open bites

• Rotated teeth

• Other tooth and bite alignment concerns

Better alignment can make teeth easier to brush and floss, reduce uneven wear and improve bite function. Our orthodontist will evaluate your teeth, bite and jaw relationships to determine which treatment approach best fits your goals and the movements required.

Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic care is about more than creating a straighter smile. Depending on your needs, treatment may provide benefits such as:

• Improved bite function for more comfortable chewing and speaking

• Easier brushing and flossing with better-aligned teeth

• Reduced uneven tooth wear associated with certain bite problems

• Improved tooth and jaw alignment

• A more balanced smile

• Long-term stability when retainers are worn as directed after treatment

Your Orthodontic Treatment Options

Braces

Braces use brackets and an orthodontic wire to gradually move teeth into improved positions. They can be used for a wide range of alignment and bite concerns, from relatively straightforward tooth movement to more complex orthodontic problems. Metal braces provide a reliable treatment option, while ceramic braces use brackets that blend more closely with the natural color of the teeth for a less noticeable appearance.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners straighten teeth using a series of removable trays that move the teeth gradually through planned stages of treatment. Because the aligners can be removed for eating, brushing and flossing, they offer additional flexibility for patients who prefer a more discreet orthodontic option. Clear aligners may be appropriate for both teens and adults, depending on the type and complexity of tooth movement required.

Our orthodontist can determine whether braces or clear aligners are better suited to your bite, lifestyle and treatment goals.

Other Orthodontic Appliances

Some treatment plans require more than braces or aligners alone. Depending on the orthodontic concern, treatment may also include elastics, palatal expanders or other appliances designed to guide tooth movement or jaw development. These appliances are recommended based on the specific problem being treated rather than used routinely for every patient.

The Orthodontic Treatment Process

Your orthodontic care begins with a comprehensive evaluation so our orthodontist can understand your teeth, bite and treatment goals.

The process may include:

• Comprehensive evaluation: A clinical examination, photographs and digital scans or X-rays help show tooth positions and jaw relationships.

• Personalized treatment plan: Your recommended appliances, treatment goals and estimated timeline are reviewed with you.

• Appliance placement: Braces are placed or your first set of clear aligners is provided with instructions for wear and care.

• Active treatment: Regular appointments allow our orthodontic team to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments.

• Finishing details: Small refinements help improve tooth position and bite relationships as treatment nears completion.

• Retention: Custom retainers help hold your teeth in their new positions after active treatment ends.

What to Expect During Orthodontic Treatment

Mild tenderness or pressure can occur for a few days after braces are adjusted or when you begin a new set of aligners. Softer foods and over-the-counter pain relief may help during these brief adjustment periods.

Patients with braces should avoid very hard, sticky or chewy foods that could damage brackets or wires. Clear aligners should be worn as directed and removed for eating and oral hygiene.

Keeping your teeth and appliances clean is also an important part of treatment. Patients with braces may need floss threaders or interdental brushes to clean around brackets and wires, while clear aligners should be cleaned before being placed back over freshly brushed teeth.

Treatment time depends on the complexity of your case and the movements required. Many orthodontic treatment plans take approximately 12 to 24 months, while more limited corrections may take less time. Once treatment is complete, retainers are used to help maintain the new tooth positions.

Braces or Clear Aligners: Which Is Right for You?

There is no single treatment option that is best for every patient. Braces remain an effective choice for a broad range of tooth movements and bite corrections. Clear aligners offer a removable and less noticeable option for patients whose orthodontic needs can be treated effectively with aligner therapy.

The best way to compare your options is through an evaluation with our orthodontist. Your bite, tooth positions, treatment goals and ability to follow wear instructions all help determine the most appropriate approach.

Ready To Explore Your Orthodontic Options?

If you are considering orthodontics in Springfield, OR, contact Epperson Orthodontics to schedule a consultation with our orthodontist. We can evaluate your teeth and bite, compare braces and clear aligner options and recommend a treatment plan based on your individual needs. Call 541-852-2552 to schedule your visit.