Something to smile about!
Orthodontics for your and your family
We have two orthodontics clinics – choose the one that’s right for you
Orthodontics Faculty Practice
Our faculty orthodontists see patients in this clinic. Fees are based on the difficulty of the case and fee-range estimates are discussed with the patient at the first screening appointment.
Final fees are established after the orthodontist has completed a treatment plan and before any treatment begins. In this dental center, treatment can be started at any time, typical appointments take between 15-30 minutes, and morning or afternoon appointments are available.
We provide all types of orthodontic services for children, teenagers and adults including braces, Invisalign® and surgical treatment.
Orthodontics Residency Center
Under the direct supervision of one of the faculty orthodontists, our residents treat all levels of cases and fees are reduced because it is a teaching program. There are some minor inconveniences associated with receiving your orthodontic care in a teaching environment.
For example:
- Date of receipt of deposit determines the spot on the waiting list; typically the waiting list can vary from three to six months. However the list may be longer or shorter depending on demand. Please understand that we try to treat everyone as soon as possible.
- Appointments must be made with the assigned attending orthodontist. These are on a certain half-day of the week and are not flexible.
- Appointments are generally about one hour long.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need orthodontics?
This is a very individual question with no one answer. Everyone wants a beautiful smile and proper tooth alignment also plays a part in overall, long-term health. The orthodontist’s goal is to achieve both for the patient.
Why should I choose a specialist?
Teeth, and sometimes faces, are permanently changed by orthodontic treatment; therefore, it is very important that the treatment be properly done. Orthodontists limit their practice to orthodontic treatment only. They have learned the special skills required for tooth movement and guidance of facial development by completing an advanced training program after receiving a dental degree.
How much will it cost?
This will depend on many factors including the severity of the problem, its complexity and length of treatment. There are a variety of convenient payment plans available that make orthodontic treatment more affordable than ever.
When should treatment begin?
There is no one answer to this because each orthodontic problem determines its own best starting time. For this reason, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child first visit an orthodontist at age 7. This allows the orthodontist to determine when a child’s particular issue should be treated for maximum improvement with the least time and expense.
What about adult orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age; about 25 percent of orthodontic patients today are adults. The biological process involved in tooth movement is the same for adults and children.
Am I a candidate for Invisalign®?
Many cases can be treated with Invisalign® or a combination of Invisalign® and regular braces. The orthodontist will discuss your treatment options with you.
Contact us
Location: Our dental centers are located on the UF campus, part of the UF Health Shands complex at the west entrance, on the first floor. Faculty Practice is in room D1-13 and the Orthodontics Residency Center is in D1-31.
Evaluation: Call 352-273-7960 to arrange a screening appointment with one of our orthodontists. A payment of $40 is required at this appointment. During this visit, the orthodontist will examine you or your child, inform you of any orthodontic needs and how they can best be managed. Questions are encouraged so that you can make a well-informed decision about treatment options.