About Orthodontics
At Stork Orthodontics, we believe a smile is more than just straight teeth. It is a powerful tool that boosts confidence and transforms how you interact with the world.
Whether you are looking for orthodontic care in West Des Moines for your child, your teenager, or yourself, we are here to help. Our family-owned practice focuses on creating a warm, welcoming environment where you feel right at home from the moment you walk through our doors.
We combine advanced technology with a personal touch to ensure every patient receives the highest quality care. Our goal is simple: to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime.
What is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a specialized area of dentistry focused on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities. While many people associate orthodontics mainly with straightening teeth, it actually covers much more.
Orthodontists like Dr. Stork complete years of extra training beyond dental school to become experts in guiding tooth movement and supporting healthy facial development. This specialized knowledge allows us to correct jaw misalignments, bite issues (malocclusions), and make sure your teeth function properly.
Having properly aligned teeth isn’t just about looks—it also promotes overall oral health. Teeth that are straight are easier to brush and floss, which lowers the risk for cavities and gum disease. In addition, fixing bite problems can relieve strain on jaw muscles and prevent uneven wear on your teeth.
Why Choose Orthodontic Treatment?
Choosing orthodontic treatment is an investment in your health, confidence, and future. A beautiful smile can positively impact your personal life and professional interactions, boosting your self-esteem every time you share it.
Patients in West Des Moines choose Stork Orthodontics for several important reasons:
- Boosted Self-Esteem: Smiling confidently without hesitation can transform your interactions and outlook.
- Improved Oral Health: Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, helping to prevent cavities and gum disease.
- Better Function: Addressing bite problems can enhance your ability to chew and speak comfortably.
- Long-Term Prevention: Early treatment can help you avoid more serious dental issues later on.
At Stork Orthodontics, we create treatment plans that are tailored to each individual. We know that every smile is unique, and we take the time to listen to your needs and goals before offering personalized recommendations.
How Orthodontic Treatment Works
Orthodontic treatment uses braces or aligners to gradually guide teeth into their ideal positions. Braces—whether metal or ceramic—use brackets, wires, and bands to apply gentle, consistent pressure to move teeth over time. For those seeking a discreet option, clear aligners are custom-made plastic trays that fit comfortably over your teeth and shift them into alignment.
The length of your treatment depends on your unique needs and the type of orthodontic solution you choose. Some cases require only a few months, while others may need several years to achieve optimal results. Typically, you’ll visit our West Des Moines office every 4-8 weeks for progress checks and to ensure your treatment stays on track.
Duration of Orthodontic Treatments
The duration of orthodontic treatment can vary greatly depending on the individual’s needs and desires. Factors such as the severity of misalignment, age, and compliance with treatment can all impact the length of treatment. The orthodontic provider can also determine the length of treatment. On average orthodontic treatment in our office takes 16 months, your treatment could be slightly longer or shorter. Throughout your treatment, you’ll visit our West Des Moines office every 8-12 weeks to advance your treatment and ensure you’re on track for an on-time removal.
FAQ
The length of orthodontic treatment depends on the severity of the dental issue, type of treatment, age, and patient compliance with the orthodontist’s recommendations, such as wearing aligners and rubber bands as directed.
Aligners is sometimes quicker than braces for mild to moderate concerns, with average treatment times from 6 to 24 months. Complex cases may still require traditional braces, which often take 12 to 28 months.
Attend every scheduled appointment, keep up with excellent oral hygiene, and follow all instructions from your orthodontist. For clear aligners, be sure to wear aligners as recommended each day.
Yes, actual treatment time can vary. Delays can result from missed appointments, inadequate oral hygiene, or not wearing aligners and appliances as instructed. Following your treatment plan closely helps avoid extensions.