Pre-Adolescent Care
Healthy Teeth for a Healthy Life
Even though most people think of pre-teens and teens when they think of orthodontics, there are good reasons your child should get an orthodontic evaluation much sooner. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a check-up with an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7.
Adolescent Care
Gaining Confidence Through a Healthy Smile
When working with adolescent patients, we work with the whole family to create the best experience possible. You can expect excellent care, clear communication about your child’s needs, and at the end of the day, a perfect smile!
Adult Care
It’s Never too Late for a Great Smile
We have many options available for you to help achieve the best possible smile. We offer Invisialign, traditional braces, and many more options for your unique smile.
Services
Braces
Braces are a common method to straighten teeth. Braces use brackets and wires and apply a pull force to shift teeth into the ideal position. They can also be used to correct bite issues.
Invisible Aligners
Clear Aligner Therapy (CAT) works similar to braces but differs by using clear plastic and “attachments.” An attachment is a tiny tooth-colored plastic filling temporarily glued to some of the teeth to help the Aligner move the teeth more effectively. Clear aligners use a push force to gently guide the teeth into a straight position.
Orthodontic Surgery
Orthodontic surgery, or corrective jaw surgery, is used to correct conditions in the jaw. This can fix issues with airway, growth, or dental bite problems.
Oral Cleft, and Craniofacial Anomalies
Our orthodontic faculty and residents provide award-winning care for patients with clefts and other craniofacial anomalies. This same outstanding treatment is provided in both our Graduate (resident) and Faculty Practice orthodontic clinics and is provided in affiliation with the University of Iowa Cleft and Craniofacial team: Cleft Palate | University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital (uichildrens.org) and can work with most medical and dental insurances that cover braces.
We recommend that you make an initial consultation with the Cleft team at: Request an Appointment | University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital (uichildrens.org). The team will make the appropriate medical and dental referrals depending on your treatment needs If you wish to make an appointment in the Graduate or Faculty Practice orthodontic clinics please contact us at (319) 335-7287.
Interceptive Early Treatment
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that every child be examined by an orthodontist no later than age 7 so that any problems with tooth development or jaw growth can be identified. If a problem is found, then early/interceptive treatment may be recommended in order to get the child get back on a normal developmental track.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
How much does orthodontic treatment cost?
Treatment in the resident clinic is $5,000 total. A 25% down payment will be paid prior to the start of treatment with the remaining costs spread over 24 months.
The cost for treatment by faculty is often determined in a case-by-case manner. The base fee is $6,500 for adolescents and $6,700 for adults with 25% down prior to the start of treatment. The remaining costs are spread over treatment length, generally 24 months.
Invisalign and ceramic brackets are an extra charge on top of the treatment cost.
Is there a fee for orthodontic records?
Requesting orthodontic records will result in a fee of up to $500 from the faculty clinic.
When does my payment plan start?
Once treatment begins, often when something is placed in your mouth.
How does PIP work?
If you have the Delta Dental policy through the University of Iowa (as an employer) you are eligible for PIP in the resident clinic. As long as you are not reaching your calendar year maximum and your dental plan is active through the course of treatment PIP will usually cover the majority of the treatment cost.
What is the fee for the University of Iowa Orthodontic invisible aligners?
University of Iowa brand invisible aligners are included in the treatment plan.
We are experts at Invisalign aligners and that treatment can easily be provided at a slight extra charge.
How much are clear retainers?
Clear retainers are currently $200 per arch. Full payment for retainers are due and there is usually no insurance coverage on these.
When will I receive my clear retainers after purchase?
Retainers can often be received within the same day, and sometimes can be mailed to you.
What are Hawley retainers?
Hawley retainers are the retainers that have a wire that goes across the front of your teeth.
How much are Hawley retainers?
Hawley retainers are $360 per arch. Full payment for retainers is due and there is usually no insurance coverage on these.
After purchase, when will I receive my Hawley retainers?
You will need 2 appointments, one for an impression and payment, then about 2 weeks later for the retainer to be delivered.