15,058
Orthodontists
100%
Accepting patients
40%
Most common: DDS
FindClarity lists 15,058 orthodontists nationwide. 100% are currently accepting new patients. The most common credential is DDS (40%).
Orthodontists specialize in straightening teeth and correcting bite problems. They use braces, clear aligners, retainers, and other appliances to move teeth into proper alignment. Beyond cosmetics, proper alignment improves chewing, speech, and long-term dental health.
After dental school, orthodontists complete an additional two to three years of residency training focused exclusively on tooth movement and facial development. This specialized training distinguishes them from general dentists who may offer some alignment treatments.
Orthodontic treatment is common for children and teenagers, but adults make up a growing share of patients. Today's options include traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual (behind-the-teeth) braces, and clear aligner systems that are nearly invisible.
Consider an orthodontic evaluation if you or your child has crowded or crooked teeth, an overbite or underbite, jaw pain when chewing, difficulty cleaning between overlapping teeth, or speech issues related to jaw alignment. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children get their first evaluation by age seven.
The first visit includes a visual exam of your teeth and bite, plus X-rays and photos. The orthodontist will explain whether treatment is needed, outline your options (braces vs. aligners), estimate treatment time, and discuss costs. No treatment begins at the initial consultation.
Metal braces: $3,000-7,000 · Ceramic braces: $4,000-8,000 · Clear aligners: $3,000-8,000
It depends on the issue. Early evaluation at age seven lets orthodontists catch jaw growth problems that are easier to correct in younger children. However, most full braces treatment starts between ages 10 and 14 when permanent teeth have come in. Adults can start treatment at any age. Healthy teeth move at any stage of life.
Most treatment plans run 12 to 24 months, though complex cases may take longer. Clear aligner cases for mild crowding can sometimes finish in six to nine months. Your orthodontist will give you a timeline at the start, but actual duration depends on how your teeth respond to treatment.
For mild to moderate alignment issues, clear aligners produce excellent results. For severe crowding, significant bite problems, or cases requiring tooth rotation, traditional braces often offer more precise control. Your orthodontist can tell you which option works best for your specific situation.
No. You can schedule an orthodontic consultation directly without a referral from your general dentist. Many orthodontists offer free or low-cost initial evaluations. However, your dentist may recommend a specific orthodontist if they spot alignment issues during a regular checkup.
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Many dental plans include an orthodontic benefit with a lifetime maximum, commonly $1,000 to $2,500. This usually covers only one round of treatment. Most orthodontists offer in-house payment plans that spread costs over the length of treatment with no interest. Ask about your plan's age limits, as some only cover patients under 19.