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Orthodontics & ClearCorrect in Red Bank, NJ

Why Is Orthodontic Treatment Important?

To correct malocclusions, or misalignments of the teeth, orthodontic treatment is used. These days, most adult patients favor the discreet look of clear aligner braces over traditional metal brackets. Teeth that are not aligned properly become more susceptible to bacteria build-up, cavities, and periodontal disease. Because misaligned teeth cannot be cleaned properly, they also carry an increased risk of enamel wear, difficulty speaking and chewing, and extra stress on the supporting bone and gums. Left untreated, these problems can grow much worse over time.

By bringing the bite into proper alignment, orthodontic treatment helps the teeth fit together the way they were meant to. That greatly lowers the risk of future dental problems and lets the teeth function as they should.

What it is

Using braces or clear aligners, orthodontic treatment corrects misaligned teeth and bite problems while improving both function and appearance.

Who it's for

Anyone, from children and teens to adults, who has crooked teeth, crowding, spacing issues, overbites, underbites, crossbites, or other alignment concerns.

Our approach

Offering both traditional braces and ClearCorrect clear aligners, Dr. MacFarlane tailors each treatment plan to the patient's specific needs and lifestyle.

Bothered by crooked or misaligned teeth? Schedule an orthodontic consultation with Dr. MacFarlane today.

ClearCorrect Clear Aligners at Our Practice

For patients who want straighter teeth without the look and feel of traditional metal braces, Dr. Glenn A. MacFarlane is pleased to offer ClearCorrect as an orthodontic solution at The Center for Holistic Dental Medicine. A series of removable, customized clear aligners gradually shifts your teeth into the desired position. Discreet, comfortable, and removable, the aligners let you eat, brush, and floss normally throughout your treatment.

Depending on the individual's needs and the severity of their misalignment, ClearCorrect treatment typically takes 6-18 months. The option is affordable, with financing available. To determine whether ClearCorrect is right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. MacFarlane.

ClearCorrect Orthodontics at The Center for Holistic Dental Medicine in Red Bank, NJ

Orthodontic Treatment Options

Traditional Braces

For correcting complex orthodontic issues, traditional metal braces remain one of the most effective methods. Through a system of brackets, wires, and bands, they apply steady, gentle pressure that moves teeth into their proper positions over time.

Compared with previous generations, modern braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more efficient. Suitable for patients of all ages, they are particularly effective for severe crowding, significant bite problems, and cases that require precise tooth movement. With regular adjustment visits at our Red Bank, NJ office, Dr. MacFarlane will monitor your progress.

ClearCorrect Clear Aligners

  • Discreet: Nearly invisible, the aligners go unnoticed by most people
  • Removable: Take them out to eat, brush, and floss, with no dietary restrictions
  • Comfortable: Smooth plastic, with no brackets or wires to irritate your mouth
  • Convenient: In many cases, fewer office visits than traditional braces
  • Effective: Handles mild to moderate crowding, spacing, and bite issues
  • Typical timeline: 6-18 months, depending on individual needs

Torn between braces and clear aligners? Dr. MacFarlane will help you find the best option for your smile.

What Causes Orthodontic Problems?

Inherited & Genetic Factors

Many malocclusions are inherited or genetic problems that simply cannot be prevented. Often patients notice crowded teeth, spacing issues, protrusions, extra or missing teeth, and jaw growth problems with genetic origins. Some of these conditions surface during childhood, while others show no noticeable symptoms until adulthood. Catching them with an early evaluation can identify potential issues before they grow more difficult to treat.

Environmental & Behavioral Causes

  • Thumb-sucking or pacifier use: When these habits last too long in childhood, they may affect tooth and jaw development
  • Early or late loss of baby teeth: This can leave permanent teeth to shift or erupt out of alignment
  • Periodontal disease: By weakening the structures that support the teeth, gum disease can lead to shifting
  • Accidents or trauma: Misalignment can result from injury to the jaw or teeth
  • Poor oral habits: Over time, tongue thrusting or mouth breathing may contribute to bite problems

Whatever the cause, Dr. MacFarlane can evaluate your teeth and recommend the best orthodontic approach for your situation. To schedule your orthodontic consultation today, contact The Center for Holistic Dental Medicine.

What to Expect During Treatment

Your Treatment Steps

  1. Initial consultation: Dr. MacFarlane examines your teeth, takes imaging, and talks through your goals and concerns
  2. Treatment planning: Built around your specific alignment needs, a customized plan lays out a clear timeline and expected outcomes
  3. Appliance placement or aligner fitting: Braces are bonded to the teeth, or your first set of ClearCorrect aligners arrives with detailed wearing instructions
  4. Regular progress visits: At periodic appointments in our Red Bank, NJ office, Dr. MacFarlane monitors movement and makes adjustments
  5. Completion and retention: After treatment wraps up, a retainer is provided to help maintain your new smile

Good to Know

  • After braces are placed or a new set of aligners is started, some mild discomfort is normal and typically subsides within a few days
  • To prevent cavities and gum issues, good oral hygiene is especially important during orthodontic treatment
  • For optimal results with ClearCorrect, aligners should be worn 20-22 hours per day
  • Treatment length varies by individual, typically ranging from 6 months to 2 years
  • For long-term results, wearing your retainer as directed after treatment is essential
  • To help manage the cost of treatment, financing options are available

Ready to begin the journey toward a straighter, healthier smile? Reach out today to schedule your orthodontic consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

By age 7, children should have their first orthodontic evaluation, according to the American Association of Orthodontists. At that stage, while some baby teeth are still present, Dr. MacFarlane can spot potential issues with jaw growth and emerging teeth. An early evaluation does not necessarily mean early treatment. Instead, it lets us monitor development and step in at the optimal time if treatment is needed.

Absolutely. Orthodontic treatment has no age limit, and many adults choose to straighten their teeth for both aesthetic and health reasons. Because they are discreet and removable, ClearCorrect clear aligners are a particularly popular option for adult patients. At our Red Bank, NJ practice, Dr. MacFarlane has experience treating patients of all ages.

How long treatment takes depends on the complexity of the case and the method used. For mild to moderate cases, ClearCorrect treatment typically runs 6 to 18 months. Traditional braces may be worn for 12 months to 3 years, depending on the severity of the misalignment. At your initial consultation, Dr. MacFarlane will provide an estimated timeline.

Some soreness or pressure is common after braces are first placed or adjusted, or when you switch to a new set of clear aligners. Usually this discomfort is mild and temporary, lasting only a few days. To manage any initial soreness, over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods can help. Most patients adjust quickly and find that discomfort eases with each subsequent adjustment.

To move teeth into position, traditional braces use metal brackets and wires bonded to the teeth, while ClearCorrect relies on a series of custom-made, removable clear plastic aligners. For mild to moderate cases, ClearCorrect is generally preferred, with the advantage of being nearly invisible and removable. Complex cases may respond better to traditional braces. Based on your individual needs, Dr. MacFarlane will recommend the best option.

What orthodontic treatment costs varies with the type of treatment (braces vs. clear aligners), the complexity of the case, and the estimated treatment duration. At your consultation, our team will give you a detailed breakdown of costs and review the available payment plans and financing options that keep treatment accessible.

Particularly for patients under 18, many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits, though coverage amounts and eligibility vary by plan. Our office staff will help verify your benefits and work with your insurance provider to maximize your coverage. For any remaining balance, we also offer flexible financing options.

Over time, untreated orthodontic problems can lead to a range of complications: a higher risk of cavities and gum disease because crooked teeth are hard to clean, uneven enamel wear, jaw pain or TMJ issues from a misaligned bite, and difficulty chewing or speaking. Addressing alignment issues may help head off these problems and support long-term oral health.

Yes. Once braces are removed or ClearCorrect treatment is completed, a retainer is essential to maintain your results. Without one, teeth have a natural tendency to drift back toward their original positions. Dr. MacFarlane will provide a retainer along with instructions for how long and how often to wear it.

Straighter teeth could be within reach. Book your orthodontic consultation at The Center for Holistic Dental Medicine in Red Bank, NJ.