Everything you need to know about treatment, technology, appointments, and payment โ answered honestly, without the jargon.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first evaluation by age 7. At this point, Dr. Larson can identify any developing issues with jaw growth or tooth alignment โ even while most baby teeth are still present. Most children won't need treatment right away, but early evaluation means we can monitor and act at exactly the right time, often preventing more complex treatment later.
Traditional orthodontic treatment averages 18โ24 months. At Larson Family Orthodontics, Dr. Larson's fully digital approach โ where every case is planned on a computer before a single bracket is placed โ reduces average treatment time by up to 45% compared to traditional methods. Many patients complete treatment in 12โ18 months. Your specific timeline depends on the complexity of your case, which Dr. Larson will walk you through at your free consultation.
LightForce are the world's first fully custom 3D-printed braces. Unlike traditional metal braces that are mass-produced in standard sizes, every LightForce bracket is designed specifically for your tooth anatomy using digital scans. This means more precise tooth movement, fewer adjustments, and faster treatment โ all at the same price as traditional braces. It's one of the reasons patients choose Larson Family Orthodontics over other offices in the area.
Both straighten teeth effectively โ the right choice depends on your lifestyle, case complexity, and preference. Braces (including LightForce custom braces) are fixed to your teeth and work 24/7 without any action from you. Clear aligners like Angel Aligners are removable, nearly invisible, and great for patients who want flexibility. Dr. Larson will review both options with you at your consultation and give you an honest recommendation based on your specific needs โ not a sales pitch.
Brava are lingual braces โ they attach to the inside (tongue side) of your teeth, making them completely invisible from the front. They're ideal for adults and teens who want the effectiveness of braces without any visible hardware. Dr. Larson is one of the few orthodontists in the Gilbert area trained to place lingual braces, and he uses a digital workflow to plan every case with precision.
Some mild soreness for 2โ3 days after getting braces placed or switching to a new aligner tray is normal โ your teeth are moving! Over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods help. Most patients find the discomfort very manageable and much less than they expected. Dr. Larson's digital planning also means more controlled, gradual movements, which tends to reduce discomfort compared to traditional methods.
Absolutely โ about 1 in 4 orthodontic patients today is an adult. There's no age limit on a great smile. Dr. Larson treats patients of all ages and offers discreet options like Angel Clear Aligners and Brava Hidden Braces specifically suited to adult lifestyles. Many adult patients are surprised by how much faster and more comfortable treatment is with today's digital technology.
No referral needed. You can book your free consultation directly through our website or by calling (623) 400-3234. We do recommend maintaining regular dental cleanings throughout your orthodontic treatment, and we're happy to coordinate with your dentist if needed.
Browse other topics:
The best way to get answers specific to your family is a free, no-pressure consultation with Dr. Larson. He'll review your situation personally and walk you through every option.