Orthodontic Treatment in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Orthodontic treatment helps your upper and lower teeth fit together properly. When teeth and jaws don’t line up, it can increase the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, jaw pain, and even speech or chewing problems.

In Grand Rapids, MI, residents have access to high-quality orthodontic care through local providers and major health systems such as Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, and Mercy Health.

Why Orthodontic Treatment Matters

How Misaligned Teeth Affect Oral Health

When teeth are crooked, crowded, or don’t meet correctly, you may experience:

  • Higher risk of tooth decay and gum disease

    • Teeth that are very close together are harder to clean properly.
    • Plaque builds up more easily, especially in winter when people in West Michigan may snack more and drink fewer fluids.
    • This can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and periodontitis.

  • Injury to the gums and soft tissues

    • If a tooth doesn’t meet its partner in the opposite jaw properly, it may dig into the gums and cause pain or injury.
    • Braces that are not well-maintained can also irritate cheeks and lips.

  • Chewing, speaking, and swallowing difficulties

    • Poor alignment can make it harder to bite into foods—especially tougher Michigan staples like apples, corn on the cob, or grilled meats.
    • It may affect speech clarity or cause mouth breathing and dry mouth.

  • Increased risk of trauma

    • Teeth that stick out (protruding teeth) are more likely to be chipped or broken during sports or icy-weather falls—common in Grand Rapids’ long, snowy winters.

Common Orthodontic Problems

Orthodontists in Grand Rapids diagnose teeth and jaw alignment issues using a visual exam, photos, and X‑rays. Some of the most common problems include:

Excessive Overbite

  • The top teeth bite over the bottom teeth more than usual.
  • With teeth closed, you normally see about half of the lower front teeth.
  • If you see less than half, it may be an excessive overbite.
  • This can cause:
    • Excessive wear on lower front teeth
    • Jaw discomfort
    • Difficulty cleaning certain areas

Underbite

  • The bottom jaw sits further forward than normal.
  • When teeth are closed, the lower front teeth sit in front of the upper front teeth.
  • This can lead to:
    • Jaw joint strain
    • Uneven tooth wear
    • Chewing and speech issues

Protruded (Sticking Out) Teeth

  • The upper jaw sits further forward than the lower jaw, or the upper front teeth are pushed outward.
  • When teeth are together, the upper teeth may sit over or in front of the lower lip.
  • People with protruded teeth:
    • Are at higher risk of tooth damage or loss from accidents (for example, falls on ice or sports injuries on Grand Rapids’ many playing fields and rinks)
    • May have speech or eating problems
    • Often seek treatment for cosmetic reasons

Crowded Teeth

  • There is not enough space for teeth to be straight, causing overlap or teeth that grow in crooked or cannot fully come out.
  • Causes can include:
    • Large teeth
    • A small jaw
    • A combination of both
  • Crowding makes brushing and flossing more difficult, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.

Spacing and Gaps

  • There is too much space between teeth.
  • This may be caused by:
    • Small or misshaped teeth
    • Missing teeth
    • Teeth that don’t fully erupt
    • A larger-than-average jaw
  • Gaps can affect appearance, speech, and how evenly biting forces are distributed.

Types of Orthodontic Treatments Available in Grand Rapids

A range of orthodontic devices can be used to move teeth into better positions or keep them in place. Your Grand Rapids orthodontist will recommend a plan based on your specific needs.

Fixed Braces

  • Brackets are attached to the front (or sometimes back) of each tooth.
  • A wire is tied or clipped into the brackets.
  • The constant, gentle pressure of the wire slowly moves teeth into their new positions.
  • Braces are very common for teens in the Grand Rapids area, but adults also choose them for reliable, predictable results.

Clear Aligners (Invisible Braces)

  • Often called “invisible braces”, clear aligners are a series of custom-molded, transparent plastic trays that fit over the teeth.
  • They gradually shift teeth into place.
  • Typically worn 20–22 hours per day, but can be removed to:
    • Eat and drink
    • Brush and floss
    • Clean the aligners
  • Popular among adults and older teens in West Michigan who want a more discreet option.

Elastics (Rubber Bands)

  • Small rubber bands are stretched between upper and lower braces.
  • They provide extra force to move teeth or adjust the bite.
  • Your orthodontist will show you how and when to wear them for best results.

Plates (Removable Appliances)

  • A plastic device that sits in the mouth and uses wires and springs to move or hold teeth in place.
  • Unlike fixed braces, a plate can be taken out of the mouth.
  • Often used for younger patients in early or “interceptive” treatment.

Orthodontic Surgery

  • In severe cases, surgery may be needed to:
    • Remove buried or impacted teeth
    • Create space for teeth to come out
    • Correct jaw problems that cannot be fixed with braces or aligners alone
  • Surgery can improve:
    • Bite function
    • Facial balance and appearance
    • The overall outcome of orthodontic treatment

In Grand Rapids, orthodontic-related surgery is typically coordinated with oral and maxillofacial surgeons affiliated with major systems like Spectrum Health and Trinity Health Grand Rapids.

When to Start Orthodontic Treatment

Children and Teens

  • Problems that may benefit from orthodontic treatment can often be detected at an early age by a dentist or orthodontist.
  • Most full orthodontic treatment is done after all permanent teeth have come in, usually between ages 11–15.
  • However, some treatment can begin earlier (age 7–10) to:
    • Guide jaw growth
    • Create space for incoming teeth
    • Reduce the need for major treatment later

Adults

  • Adults of any age can have orthodontic treatment if they have healthy teeth and gums.
  • Many adults in Grand Rapids seek orthodontic care to:
    • Improve their bite
    • Reduce wear and tear on teeth
    • Enhance their smile and confidence
    • Address shifting teeth that moved over time or after tooth loss

Risks and Side Effects of Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment is generally safe, but there are some risks and considerations:

Dental Hygiene Challenges

  • Braces and some appliances make cleaning teeth more difficult.
  • This can increase the chances of:
    • Gum disease
    • Tooth decay
    • White or brown discoloration (decalcification) around brackets
  • To reduce these risks:
    • Brush after every meal with fluoride toothpaste.
    • Floss at least twice a day.
    • Limit snacking, especially sugary or sticky foods popular in colder months.
    • Drink water regularly to help rinse away food and plaque.

Soft Tissue Irritation

  • Brackets and wires may rub against the gums, cheeks, or lips, causing soreness or small ulcers.
  • Orthodontic wax, saltwater rinses, and minor adjustments usually help.

Relapse (Teeth Moving Back)

  • After braces or aligners, teeth can shift back if retainers are not worn as directed.
  • Long-term retainer use is essential to maintain results.

Caring for Your Teeth During Orthodontic Treatment

Your orthodontist or oral health professional will teach you how to keep your mouth healthy during treatment. Key tips include:

Brushing and Flossing With Braces or Aligners

  • Brush after every meal and snack using:
    • A soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric toothbrush
    • Fluoride toothpaste
  • Floss at least once–twice daily. If string floss is too difficult:
    • Use floss threaders designed for braces
    • Try interdental brushes, which are small brushes that fit between teeth and around brackets
  • For clear aligners:
    • Remove aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water
    • Brush your teeth before putting aligners back in
    • Clean aligners as directed by your orthodontist

Diet and Lifestyle

  • Avoid or limit:
    • Very hard foods (ice, hard candies, some nuts)
    • Very sticky foods (caramels, taffy, some chewy candies)
    • Sugary drinks and frequent snacking
  • These habits help protect your teeth and your orthodontic appliances, especially during active winter sports or outdoor activities around Grand Rapids.

Who Provides Orthodontic Treatment in Grand Rapids?

Orthodontists and Dentists

  • Orthodontists are dentists who have completed additional years of specialized training in:
    • Diagnosing teeth and jaw alignment problems
    • Preventing and treating bite issues
    • Designing and managing braces, aligners, and other appliances
  • Some general dentists in Grand Rapids also offer limited orthodontic services, often using clear aligner systems.

Your orthodontist or dentist will:

  • Take detailed records (photos, X‑rays, digital scans, or impressions)
  • Diagnose alignment and bite problems
  • Plan your treatment
  • Provide ongoing care and adjustments

Local and Public Dental Resources

For residents of Grand Rapids and Kent County:

  • Kent County Health Department / Grand Rapids Public Health
    • Offer information on local dental clinics and public health programs.
  • Community and low‑cost dental clinics
    • Some clinics provide reduced-fee or income-based services for eligible individuals and families.
  • Major health systems
    • Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, and Mercy Health can help with referrals to orthodontists and oral surgeons as needed.

Costs of Orthodontic Treatment

The cost of orthodontic care in Grand Rapids varies based on:

  • Type and severity of the problem
  • Length of treatment
  • Type of appliance (metal braces, ceramic braces, clear aligners, etc.)
  • Need for additional procedures (such as extractions or surgery)

Many orthodontic offices:

  • Offer payment plans
  • Work with dental insurance that may cover part of the treatment for children and sometimes adults
  • Provide initial consultations to discuss options and estimated fees

Where to Get Help in Grand Rapids, MI

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment in Grand Rapids:

  • Talk to your dentist, oral health therapist, or orthodontist about:
    • Whether you or your child might benefit from braces or aligners
    • The best timing for treatment
    • How to keep teeth and gums healthy during orthodontic care
  • Use professional directories such as the American Association of Orthodontists “Find an Orthodontist” tool to locate a specialist near you.
  • Contact local providers or community clinics in the Grand Rapids metro area for information on services, hours, and payment options.

Key Points About Orthodontic Treatment in Grand Rapids

  • When upper and lower teeth don’t fit together properly, it increases the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and jaw problems.
  • Common orthodontic problems include excessive overbite, underbite, protruded teeth, crowded teeth, and gaps.
  • Treatment options include fixed braces, clear aligners, elastics, removable plates, and sometimes surgery.
  • Early diagnosis by a dental professional can help prevent more serious problems and may reduce the need for extensive treatment later.
  • Good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups are essential during orthodontic treatment to prevent decay and gum disease.
  • Grand Rapids residents can access orthodontic care through local orthodontists, dentists, major health systems, and community dental resources.