Benefits of Getting Braces at iSmile Orthodontics in Spokane Valley
Braces do more than straighten teeth. Here's what Spokane Valley families love about treatment with us:
Better Oral Health
Straighter teeth are easier to brush and floss. When teeth overlap or crowd together, food particles and plaque hide in hard-to-reach spots. Proper alignment reduces your risk of cavities and gum disease, which means fewer dental visits down the road and a healthier mouth for years to come. Many families at iSmile Orthodontics tell us this is the benefit they appreciate most once treatment wraps up.
A Confidence Boost
There's something special about smiling without hesitation. Many of our Spokane Valley family members tell us their self-esteem changed once their teeth were aligned, and they started smiling in photos again. That kind of confidence shows up everywhere, from school presentations to job interviews.
Corrected Bite Issues
Misaligned bites can lead to jaw discomfort, headaches and uneven tooth wear. Your orthodontist in Spokane Valley at iSmile Orthodontics addresses these functional concerns while improving your smile's appearance, giving you both comfort and confidence in one treatment.
Fun Style Options
Kids and teens love colorful braces! Choose from a rainbow of band colors to express your personality at every adjustment visit. Adults who prefer a subtler look can opt for clear braces instead. It's one of the things that makes treatment feel less like a chore and more like a form of self-expression.
Affordable Payment Plans
We work with most insurance plans and offer monthly payment options so cost doesn't hold you back. iSmile Orthodontics builds custom payment plans around your family's budget because your smile shouldn't wait.
The Braces Process: What to Expect at Our Spokane Valley Office
We lay everything out upfront so you always know what's coming next.
Step 1: Free Consultation
Your new smile starts with a no-obligation visit at our Spokane Valley office. Dr. Lauren will examine your teeth using digital 3D imaging and take digital photos and X-rays. She'll discuss your smile goals and build a treatment plan designed around your specific needs. This visit is also a great time to ask questions about timeline, cost and what daily life with braces looks like.
Step 2: Bracket Placement
Once you're ready, we'll schedule your bracket placement visit. This typically takes 60 to 90 minutes. Our smile team carefully bonds each bracket to your teeth and connects them with an archwire. Most people find this visit comfortable and easy, with little to no discomfort during the bonding itself.
Step 3: Regular Adjustment Visits
You'll return to iSmile Orthodontics every 4 to 8 weeks for adjustments. During these quick visits, Dr. Lauren tightens the wire and checks your progress. This is also when you can switch up your band colors if you're wearing colorful braces!
Step 4: Braces Removal and Retainer Fitting
When your teeth reach their ideal positions, our team at iSmile Orthodontics removes your braces and fits you with a custom retainer. Wearing your retainer as directed keeps your smile looking beautiful for years to come. Many of our Spokane Valley families tell us this is the visit they look forward to most.
Treatment Timeline
Braces typically take 12 to 24 months, depending on the specific case. Some minor cases finish sooner, while more involved cases take longer. Dr. Lauren will give you a more accurate estimate during your free consultation.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Braces in Spokane Valley?
Children age 7 and older, teenagers and adults are all good candidates for braces at iSmile Orthodontics. Dr. Lauren Van Gemert evaluates each person individually to determine the best path forward, taking into account tooth development, bite alignment and your personal goals.
- Children age 7 and older: The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic evaluation by age seven. Early assessment allows Dr. Lauren to identify developing issues and determine if Phase I treatment would help guide jaw growth and tooth development before more involved treatment becomes necessary.
- Teenagers: The teen years are the most common time for braces. Permanent teeth have emerged, and natural growth patterns help achieve optimal results. Teens also love picking out new band colors at every visit.
- Adults: It's never too late for a straighter smile. Adult orthodontics has become increasingly popular, and braces are just as effective for grown-ups as they are for kids. Many adults choose braces to address issues they've lived with for years, and some opt for clear aligners if they prefer a removable option.
You're likely a great candidate if you have:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- An overbite, underbite or crossbite
- Teeth that don't line up when you bite down, causing discomfort or uneven wear
Not sure if braces are right for you? Schedule a free consultation with our orthodontist in Spokane Valley. Dr. Lauren will evaluate your smile and recommend the best treatment path for your unique situation.
Why Spokane Valley Families Choose iSmile Orthodontics
When it comes to your family's smiles, you want a team you can trust.
Care Built Around Your Family
Dr. Lauren Van Gemert brings years of advanced orthodontic training and hands-on clinical experience to every treatment plan. She is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists and the American Dental Association, and she completed her orthodontic residency at Texas A&M College of Dentistry after graduating from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. This depth of training means your family's treatment reflects real expertise, not a one-size-fits-all approach. Every plan is shaped by your family's specific goals and concerns.
Affordable Treatment That Fits Your Life
Custom payment plans and insurance coordination make braces in Spokane Valley, WA accessible for your family. Our team walks you through every cost detail during your free consultation so there are no surprises on your bill.
Advanced Technology
Our office features digital 3D imaging, the iTero Scanner and digital photos and X-rays. These tools help Dr. Lauren create precise treatment plans and track your progress accurately. The iTero Scanner, for example, replaces messy traditional impressions with a quick, comfortable digital scan.
A Welcoming Environment
Enter our office and become part of a family that makes you feel valued and welcomed. We treat kids, teens and adults with the same warmth and attention. That's what a family of care looks like in practice, and it's something our Spokane Valley families notice from the very first visit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Braces in Spokane Valley
How much do braces cost in Spokane Valley?
The cost of braces varies based on your treatment plan, the type of braces you choose and the length of treatment. The best way to get accurate pricing is to schedule a free consultation at iSmile Orthodontics, where Dr. Lauren will provide a detailed cost estimate along with payment options that work for your budget.
How long do braces take to straighten teeth?
Most people wear braces for 12 to 24 months. Your timeline depends on factors like the severity of misalignment and how well you follow care instructions. Dr. Lauren will give you a specific estimate during your free consultation.
Do braces hurt?
Expect mild soreness for a few days after getting braces and following adjustment visits. This is normal and typically manageable with over-the-counter relief. Dr. Lauren says most of our families forget about the soreness within a couple of days, and our Spokane Valley team at iSmile Orthodontics is always here to help if you have concerns.
Braces vs. clear aligners: which is right for me?
The right choice depends on your case, lifestyle and personal preference. Both options can achieve beautiful results. Here's a quick comparison:
| Feature | Braces | Clear Aligners |
|---|---|---|
| Visibility | More visible (metal or clear brackets) | Nearly invisible |
| Removability | Fixed to teeth | Removable for eating and cleaning |
| Best for | Complex cases, all ages | Mild to moderate cases, disciplined wearers |
| Adjustment visits | Every 4-8 weeks | Every 6-8 weeks |
iSmile Orthodontics offers both braces and clear aligners. During your Spokane Valley consultation, Dr. Lauren will help you decide which option fits your lifestyle and treatment needs.
Can adults get braces?
Yes! Adult orthodontics is common and effective. Many Spokane Valley adults choose braces to address issues they've lived with for years or to correct teeth that have shifted over time. Clear braces offer a less noticeable option for adults who prefer discretion. You're never too old to invest in your smile.
What can I eat with braces?
You'll need to avoid hard, sticky and chewy foods that could damage your brackets or wires. Skip things like popcorn, hard candy, caramel and ice. Soft foods, cut-up fruits and vegetables and tender meats are all braces-friendly. Our team will give you a full list of foods to enjoy and avoid at your visit.
Get a Free Braces Consultation in Spokane Valley Today
iSmile Orthodontics in Spokane Valley, WA offers free braces consultations with Dr. Lauren Van Gemert for children, teens and adults. Schedule yours today. She'll evaluate your teeth, discuss your goals and create a treatment plan built around you, with no obligation.