Virginia Family Dentistry has 5 orthodontists within the practice who are experienced in treatment with both braces and Invisalign. Our orthodontists see patients of all ages and work directly with our general dentists to provide complete dental care to our patients.
Our Orthodontic Philosophy
Virginia Family Dentistry’s Orthodontists will perform your care with the highest quality of materials and methods, while maintaining a level of comfort and affordability. Our ultimate goal is a smile that enhances the appearance, health, comfort, and self-esteem of our patients.
Orthodontic Locations
Virginia Family Dentistry has 10 orthodontic locations throughout Central Virginia. Click on a location for more information.
View all orthodontic locations as a list here.
Meet Our Orthodontists
Orthodontists are dental specialists who diagnose, prevent and treat dental and facial irregularities to correctly align teeth and jaws. Orthodontists complete 2-3 additional years of education and training after graduating dental school. Virginia Family Dentistry has 5 orthodontists within the practice: Dr. Dwight Buelow, Dr. Richard Marcus, Dr. Allison Purcell, Dr. Melanie Spears, and Dr. Taylor Varner.
What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is the specialty of dentistry focused on the diagnosis and treatment of dental and associated facial irregularities. The results of orthodontic treatment can be beautiful smiles, improved dental health and an enhanced quality of life for many people of all ages. Orthodontic problems, which can result from genetic and environmental factors, must be diagnosed before treatment begins. Proper diagnosis involves taking photographs, x-rays, and dental impressions, which enables our orthodontists to make informative decisions about the form of treatment necessary.
How long does treatment take?
Treatment typically lasts from 6 to 30 months, depending on age and the severity of the orthodontic problem. Outstanding results are also dependent on maximizing the coordination of care between you and our practice. We are committed to delivering the best possible service in order for you to achieve your orthodontic objectives.
When should my child first see an orthodontist?
Our orthodontists provide orthodontic treatment for children, adolescents and adults. We follow the guidelines established by the American Association of Orthodontists by recommending that an orthodontic evaluation take place about age 7 for all children. This evaluation can help to determine the best time to begin any necessary treatment.
Many progressive treatments are now available for patients 7 to 11 years of age, that provide significant benefits, especially when jaw irregularities are present. These treatments may also prevent certain conditions from worsening. Treating children with these types of problems during their growth stages allows our practice to achieve results that may not be possible when face and jaw bones have fully developed. This treatment can simplify and shorten treatment time for later corrective orthodontics. This treatment is commonly referred to as interceptive or phase one treatment.
Please contact our office if you have any questions. The timing of your treatment is very important. You or your child may or may not be ready for treatment. Therefore, an evaluation will allow us to better understand your needs.