Pinecrest Orthodontics: Braces & Clear Aligners for All Ages
Pinecrest orthodontics covers treatments that transform your smile and correct bite issues for children, teens & adults. These services are provided by Smiles of Palmetto Bay, just minutes from Pinecrest, where you'll find metal braces, clear braces, and clear aligners, all delivered by board-certified orthodontists. We offer free in-office and virtual consults, plus digital scans that replace messy molds.
A great smile can change a lot. It boosts your confidence, supports better oral health, and helps you go hard after your dreams. Whether your child needs a first orthodontic check-up or you've been thinking about straightening your own teeth for years, our team is here to help.
Smiles of Palmetto Bay serves Pinecrest families from our fun, modern office in Palmetto Bay, FL. Dr. Greg Ross and Dr. Cassandra Iglesias lead our orthodontic team, both Board-Certified Orthodontists with extensive training in modern techniques. We also offer kids dentistry under one roof with Dr. Jorman Garcia, so the whole family can be cared for in one place.
Getting started is simple. Book a free ortho consult, get a quick digital scan, and walk away with a custom plan made just for you. No pressure, no messy impressions, just clear answers about your options.
In this guide, we'll cover the orthodontic treatment options for everyone in Pinecrest, who's a good candidate, what to expect during care, and how to choose the right approach for your smile.
What Braces Options Are Available in Pinecrest?
Pinecrest families have two main braces options at Smiles of Palmetto Bay: traditional metal braces and clear braces. Both are placed by our Board-Certified Orthodontists. If you want a fuller rundown first, our guide to the types of braces explains how each one works. Braces remain one of the most reliable ways to transform your smile, especially for moderate to complex cases that need precise, dependable tooth movement over time.
Metal Braces
Today's metal braces are nothing like the bulky brackets of decades past. They're smaller, smoother, and built from high-grade space-age metal alloys that move teeth efficiently and comfortably.
These braces work by using brackets bonded to each tooth, connected by an archwire. Gentle, steady pressure shifts your teeth into place over time. Dr. Ross adjusts the wires at check-in visits to keep progress on track.
Metal braces are a great fit for:
- Children and teens whose teeth are still developing
- Patients with crowding, gaps, or rotated teeth
- More complex bite corrections (overbite, underbite, crossbite)
- Anyone wanting the most efficient, results-driven option
Clear Braces
Clear braces use tooth-colored ceramic brackets that blend in with your natural smile. They work the same way as metal braces but are far less noticeable, which makes them especially popular with teens and adults.
Dr. Ross often recommends clear braces for older patients with aesthetic concerns who still need the strength of fixed brackets. The brackets themselves resist staining, and modern materials hold up well throughout treatment.
Clear braces are ideal if you want:
- A more subtle look during treatment
- The power of braces without the metal mouth feel
- Reliable results for crowding, spacing, and bite issues
Why Pinecrest Families Choose Us for Braces
Our doctors have helped thousands of children, teens & adults transform their smiles. Dr. Cassandra Iglesias completed a 3-year orthodontic residency, and both she and Dr. Ross are Board-Certified Orthodontists. That extra training matters, especially for complex cases where experience makes the difference.
Clear Aligners (Invisalign-Style) in Pinecrest
Clear aligners are removable, nearly invisible trays that straighten teeth gradually. You wear each set for about one to two weeks, then switch to the next in the series. They're comfortable, easy to clean, and let you eat, brush, and floss normally. For many Pinecrest patients, clear aligners offer a flexible alternative to braces with results you can feel good about.
How Clear Aligners Work
Treatment starts with a digital scan of your teeth, no goopy impressions needed. Dr. Ross maps out the exact movement of each tooth and creates a custom series of trays just for you. You'll wear them 20-22 hours per day and check in with our office every few weeks.
Who's a Good Candidate?
Clear aligners work well for:
- Mild to moderate crowding or spacing
- Adults and teens who want a subtle option
- Patients with busy lifestyles who value removability
- Anyone wanting fewer in-office visits
More complex cases involving severe bite issues may still be better suited to braces. A free ortho consult is the best way to know for sure.
Why Clear Aligners Are Popular in Pinecrest
Their near-invisible design makes them a favorite for professionals, parents, and high schoolers alike. You can take them out for important meetings, photos, sports, or special meals. Cleaning is simple, just rinse and brush.
Dr. Ross has extensive experience with clear aligners, so you're in capable, well-trained hands at Smiles of Palmetto Bay. He has guided countless Pinecrest patients through aligner treatment from the first scan to the final tray. We use modern digital scanning technology to plan every step of your care, which means a more accurate fit and fewer surprises along the way.
Aligners vs. Braces at a Glance
Aligners give you flexibility and discretion. Braces give you maximum control for complex tooth movements. Our full Invisalign vs. braces comparison breaks down how to choose, and we cover it in more detail in the comparison section below.
Orthodontics for All Ages: Kids, Teens & Adults
One of the best things about modern orthodontics? It's not just for teenagers anymore. At Smiles of Palmetto Bay, we treat children, teens & adults under one roof.
Children (Ages 7+)
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have a first orthodontic check-up by age 7. By this age, enough adult teeth have come in for Dr. Ross to spot issues like crossbites, crowding, or jaw growth concerns early.
Early evaluation doesn't always mean early treatment. Sometimes we simply monitor your child's growth and step in at the right moment. When needed, interceptive (Phase 1) treatment can:
- Guide jaw development
- Make room for incoming permanent teeth
- Correct harmful habits like thumb-sucking
- Reduce the need for more involved care later
Teens
Teens have more options than ever. From metal braces with colored bands to clear braces and clear aligners, we'll find something that fits your teen's personality and lifestyle. Treatment during the teen years often goes smoothly because the jaw is still growing.
Adults
It's never too late to transform your smile. More adults than ever are choosing orthodontics, often with clear aligners or clear braces for a discreet look. Whether you're 25 or 65, healthy teeth and gums mean you can likely benefit from treatment.
Pediatric Dentistry Too
Beyond orthodontics, Dr. Jorman Garcia (Dr. G) provides kids dentistry at our office. Check-ups, cleanings, sealants, and more, all in our fun, modern office. Families love that everyone can be seen in the same place.
The Treatment Process: Consultation to Retainer
Wondering what to expect? Here's how orthodontic care works at Smiles of Palmetto Bay, broken into three easy steps, plus what happens after.
Step 1: Free Ortho Consult
Your first visit is free, no strings attached. Dr. Ross or Dr. Iglesias will examine your smile, talk through your goals, and answer every question. We also offer a virtual ortho consultation if you'd rather start from home.
Step 2: Digital Scan & Custom Plan
If you're ready to move forward, we'll take quick, easy digital scans of your teeth. No goop, no gagging. Your scans become a 3D model we use to design your exact plan, whether that's metal braces, clear braces, or clear aligners.
Step 3: Get Started
We'll place your braces or hand you your first aligner trays. You'll get clear instructions on care, eating, and cleaning. Most patients adjust within a few days.
Check-In Visits
Throughout treatment, you'll visit every 4-8 weeks for adjustments or new aligner trays. These visits are quick and help us track progress.
Treatment Timeline
Most cases take between 6 and 24 months, depending on complexity. Simple alignment may wrap up faster, while complex bite corrections take longer. Your custom plan will include an estimated timeline, and our guide on how long braces take gives a general sense of what to expect.
Retainers: Protecting Your New Smile
Once your active treatment ends, retainers keep your teeth in their new positions. Wearing your retainer as directed is the single most important thing you can do to protect your results for life.
Planning Your Orthodontic Treatment
Every smile is different, so the best plan comes from an in-person look at your teeth. At your free ortho consult, you'll get a personalized plan based on your exact needs, explained in plain language so you always understand your options.
What Affects Your Treatment Plan
- Treatment type: Metal braces, clear braces, or clear aligners
- Case complexity: Simple alignment vs. complex bite correction
- Treatment length: Shorter cases generally finish sooner
- Age and growth factors: Two-phase treatment for children may differ from teen or adult care
Why a Free Consult Matters
Every smile is different, so your plan should be too. At your free ortho consult, you'll get personalized recommendations based on your exact needs, with no surprises. We walk you through everything in plain language, so you always know what to expect and why.
A Healthy Smile for Life
Straight teeth are easier to clean, which supports better gum health, fewer cavities, and more confidence for years. Healthy teeth and gums protect your long-term oral health. As Dr. Ross often says, a beautiful smile can transform your life.
Braces vs. Clear Aligners: Which Is Right for You?
Both options can transform your smile. The right pick depends on your goals, your case, and your lifestyle. Below is a quick side-by-side look, followed by guidance on when each option tends to be the better fit for orthodontic care in Pinecrest.
| Feature | Metal/Clear Braces | Clear Aligners |
|---|---|---|
| Visibility | Visible (clear less so) | Nearly invisible |
| Removability | Fixed in place | Removable for eating/cleaning |
| Best for | Complex cases, bite issues, growing kids | Mild to moderate cases |
| Treatment scope | Wide range, including severe issues | Mild to moderate alignment |
| Compliance | Always working | Requires 20-22 hrs/day wear |
| Eating | Some food restrictions | No restrictions (remove to eat) |
| Cleaning | Brush around brackets | Remove and brush normally |
| Office visits | Every 4-8 weeks for adjustments | Every 6-10 weeks, often fewer |
When Braces Make Sense
Choose braces if your case involves severe crowding, significant bite issues, or if you'd rather not worry about taking trays in and out. Braces are always working, with nothing for you to remember or remove. For growing kids and teens, fixed brackets give Dr. Ross precise control over how each tooth moves, which is a big advantage for tricky alignment and bite corrections. They're also a dependable pick if you know a removable option might be hard to keep up with day to day.
When Clear Aligners Make Sense
Clear aligners shine for adults and teens who want a discreet option, prefer the freedom to remove trays, and have mild to moderate alignment needs. They're also great if you have a busy schedule and value fewer in-office visits. Many Pinecrest professionals and parents love being able to slip their trays out for meetings, photos, or a favorite meal, then pop them right back in. If your case is straightforward and you're good about wearing your trays the recommended hours each day, aligners can be a comfortable, low-profile way to reach the smile of your dreams.
Still Not Sure?
That's exactly what a free ortho consult is for. Dr. Ross will look at your smile, listen to your goals, and recommend the option that gets you the best result.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pinecrest Orthodontics
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Most treatments take 6 to 24 months. Simple cases may finish in less than a year, while complex bite corrections can take 18-24 months or more. Your custom plan will include an estimated timeline based on your specific needs.
At what age should my child see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic check-up by age 7. By this age, Dr. Ross can spot developing issues early and decide whether your child needs treatment now or simple monitoring as they grow.
Do clear aligners work as well as braces?
For mild to moderate alignment issues, yes. Clear aligners work well when worn 20-22 hours per day. For complex bite problems or severe crowding, braces may still be the better choice. A free consult will help you compare your options.
Is a free or virtual consultation available?
Yes! Smiles of Palmetto Bay offers both in-office and virtual free ortho consults. The virtual option lets you start from home, share photos of your smile, and get initial recommendations before ever stepping into our office.
Does insurance cover orthodontic treatment?
Many insurance plans include orthodontic benefits, especially for children and teens. Our team will help you check your coverage and make the most of your available benefits.
Helpful Orthodontic Resources & Next Steps
Want to learn more before booking your free consult? Here are some helpful resources and tips for orthodontic care in Pinecrest.
Trusted External Resources
- American Association of Orthodontists (AAO): Great for learning when kids should be evaluated and how care works.
- American Dental Association (ADA): Helpful background on oral health and how straight teeth support hygiene.
Oral Hygiene During Orthodontic Care
Keep your smile healthy throughout treatment with these habits:
- Brush after every meal, or rinse if you can't brush right away
- Floss daily, using floss threaders or a water flosser for braces
- Avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods if you have braces
- Remove clear aligners before eating or drinking anything except water
- Keep your check-ups and cleanings on schedule
Choosing a Pinecrest-Area Orthodontist
Look for a Board-Certified Orthodontist with strong reviews, modern technology, and a welcoming office. At Smiles of Palmetto Bay, Dr. Ross and Dr. Iglesias bring years of expertise, and our digital scanning makes every visit easier.
When to Seek Treatment
If you notice crowding, gaps, jaw discomfort, trouble chewing, or a bite that doesn't feel right, it's time to schedule a free ortho consult. Early action often means simpler care.
Services at a Glance
At Smiles of Palmetto Bay, you'll find metal braces, clear braces, clear aligners, kids dentistry, and free in-office or virtual consults, all in one fun, modern office.
Book Your Free Orthodontic Consultation Today
Ready to transform your smile? Pinecrest families have trusted Smiles of Palmetto Bay for orthodontics that fit every age, schedule, and goal. Whether your child is due for a first check-up or you're an adult finally ready to do something for yourself, our team is here for you.
Your free ortho consult includes a friendly exam, quick digital scans (no messy impressions), and a custom plan from our A+ doctors, Dr. Greg Ross and Dr. Cassandra Iglesias. Prefer to start from home? Choose our virtual ortho consultation.
Visit our Palmetto Bay office at 7290 SW 168th Street, Bay B, Palmetto Bay, FL 33157, or call 305-831-7290 to get started. You can also book online anytime.
Get ready to smile! Live Life Smiling with Smiles of Palmetto Bay.