Orthodontist in St. Louis
Expert Care for Every Smile
Finding the right orthodontist in St. Louis means finding someone who treats you like family, not just another patient. At McDermott Orthodontics, Dr. Richard McDermott brings specialized training and a genuine commitment to your smile. If you're considering braces for your child or Invisalign for yourself, our team creates personalized treatment plans that fit your life and your budget.
What Does an Orthodontist in St. Louis Do?
An orthodontist in St. Louis is a dental specialist who diagnoses, prevents, and corrects misaligned teeth and jaws. After completing dental school, orthodontists pursue two to three additional years of residency training focused on tooth movement, facial growth, and bite correction. The result is a level of expertise built specifically around helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile.
While general dentists focus on overall oral health, orthodontists carry that deeper, specialty-level training that makes all the difference for tooth alignment and jaw harmony. Dr. McDermott earned his DDS and brings years of focused experience to every patient he sees. He loves getting to know each person who walks through our doors, because real care starts with real relationships.
His training prepared him to treat conditions including:
- Crowding when teeth overlap or twist due to limited space
- Gaps between teeth that affect appearance and function
- Overbite where upper teeth extend too far over lower teeth
- Underbite where lower teeth sit in front of upper teeth
- Crossbite where some upper teeth close inside lower teeth
Specialized orthodontic care matters because proper alignment affects more than your smile's appearance. Straight teeth are easier to clean, reducing your risk of cavities and gum disease. A corrected bite also prevents uneven wear on your teeth and can relieve jaw tension that may build over years of misalignment.
Benefits of Choosing McDermott Orthodontics
Orthodontic care changes more than your teeth. It changes how you feel when you smile, how you care for your mouth, and how your jaw functions every day.
Confidence That Shows
Straighter teeth give you a smile you're proud to share. Many of our patients tell us they smile more freely in photos and conversations after treatment.
Healthier Teeth and Gums
Crowded or overlapping teeth trap food and plaque in hard-to-reach spots. Once your teeth are properly aligned, brushing and flossing become more effective. This reduces your risk of decay and gum disease.
Better Bite Function
A misaligned bite can cause jaw tension, headaches, and uneven tooth wear. Correcting your bite distributes chewing forces evenly, protecting your teeth and easing discomfort.
Improved Daily Function
Proper alignment helps with chewing, speech clarity, and even digestion. When your teeth meet correctly, your whole system works better.
| Treatment Option | Best For | Visibility |
|---|---|---|
| Metal Braces | Complex cases, all ages | Most visible |
| Clear Braces | Patients wanting discretion | Less noticeable |
| Invisalign | Teens and adults, mild to moderate cases | Nearly invisible |
Our free consult removes the barrier to getting started. You'll learn exactly what care involves before making any commitment.
Your Orthodontic Treatment Process in St. Louis: Step by Step
Starting orthodontic care at McDermott Orthodontics follows a clear path from your first visit to your final smile reveal.
- Free Consult and Imaging. Your first appointment includes a thorough examination and digital imaging. Dr. McDermott reviews your teeth, bite, and jaw alignment to understand your unique needs. This visit is completely free with no obligation.
- Custom Treatment Plan. Based on your evaluation, Dr. McDermott personally crafts a plan designed around your goals. He'll explain whether Invisalign, metal braces, or clear braces will work best for your situation. You'll know the expected timeline and cost before you decide.
- Getting Your Braces or Aligners. Once you're ready to begin, we place your braces or fit your first set of Invisalign aligners. Our team makes sure everything feels comfortable and walks you through caring for your new appliances at home, school, or work.
- Regular Progress Visits. You'll return every four to eight weeks for adjustments or new aligner sets. These appointments are typically quick, and Dr. McDermott monitors your progress and makes any needed modifications along the way.
- Retainer Phase. After your active care ends, retainers keep your teeth in their new positions. This phase is essential for maintaining your results long-term, and we make sure you know exactly how to care for your retainer.
Most treatments take between 12 and 24 months, though simpler cases may finish sooner. Complex cases occasionally require additional time.
Who Needs Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic care benefits children, teens, and adults. Kids should see an orthodontist by age 7 for an early evaluation. Teens often get treatment between ages 12 and 18 when permanent teeth have erupted. Adults of any age can straighten their teeth, and many choose Invisalign for its discreet look during work or social life.
Early evaluation doesn't always mean early treatment, but it gives Dr. McDermott the chance to monitor growth and step in at the right time.
Children (Ages 7-11)
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends evaluation by age seven. Some children benefit from Phase I treatment to guide jaw growth or create space for incoming teeth.
Teens (Ages 12-18)
This is often the ideal window for care. Most permanent teeth have erupted, and jaw growth can still be influenced. Teens can choose from metal braces, clear braces, or Invisalign.
Adults
Your smile is natural jewelry, no matter your age. More adults than ever are straightening their teeth, and Invisalign remains popular among working professionals who prefer a discreet option.
Signs you might benefit from orthodontic care include:
- Teeth that appear crowded or overlapping
- Noticeable gaps between teeth
- Difficulty biting or chewing
- Jaw tension or clicking
- Teeth that don't meet properly when you close your mouth
Healthy teeth and gums are important before starting care. If you need any restorative work first, we'll coordinate with your dentist to make sure you're ready.
Why St. Louis Families Trust McDermott Orthodontics
Families throughout the St. Louis area, including Arnold and Florissant, choose McDermott Orthodontics because we prioritize you, not just your teeth.
Specialized Expertise
Dr. McDermott's specialized training and ongoing continuing education prepare him for complex cases and straightforward ones alike. He stays current with the latest techniques so you benefit from modern, proven approaches.
Options for Every Smile
We offer metal braces, clear braces, and Invisalign because no single treatment fits everyone. Dr. McDermott matches your care to your lifestyle, goals, and budget.
Patients of All Ages
If your seven-year-old needs an evaluation or you're an adult ready for your smile story, our practice welcomes you. We see patients as family members, not appointment slots.
Transparent Pricing
You'll know your costs upfront. We offer no-interest in-house easy financing and work with your insurance to maximize your benefits. Everyone around Arnold and Florissant deserves a beautiful smile, and we make it affordable.
Personalized Attention
Dr. McDermott personally crafts each treatment plan and maintains an open-door policy for questions or concerns. You won't feel like a number here, you'll feel known by name.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics in St. Louis
How much does orthodontic treatment cost in St. Louis?
Treatment costs vary based on complexity and the type of appliance you choose. During your free consult, we provide a detailed cost breakdown with no surprises. Our easy financing options include no-interest payment plans tailored to your family's budget, whether you're in Arnold, Florissant, or anywhere across the St. Louis area.
Does insurance cover braces or Invisalign?
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits. Our team verifies your coverage and helps you understand exactly what your plan contributes. We handle the paperwork so you can focus on your smile.
How long does treatment take?
Most patients wear braces or aligners for 12 to 24 months. Simpler cases may finish in under a year, while more complex situations occasionally take longer. Dr. McDermott gives you a realistic timeline during your free consult.
Are clear aligners as effective as metal braces?
Invisalign treats many of the same conditions as metal braces, including crowding, spacing, and bite issues. For mild to moderate cases, aligners often work just as well. Dr. McDermott recommends the option that will give you the best results.
At what age should my child see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first evaluation by age seven. This doesn't mean your child will need braces right away. Early visits allow Dr. McDermott to monitor development and recommend care at the optimal time.
Does getting braces hurt?
Braces cause mild soreness for a few days after placement and adjustments, but modern designs minimize discomfort. You may feel some pressure as your teeth begin to shift, and this typically fades within a few days. Modern braces are lighter and more comfortable than older designs, and over-the-counter relief helps if needed.
Schedule Your Free Consult with McDermott Orthodontics
Your smile story starts with a simple conversation. Call us at (636) 296-6332 or book online to schedule your free consult. There's no obligation, just an honest assessment of your options and a personalized treatment plan built around what matters most to you.
Our offices in Arnold and Florissant welcome patients from throughout the St. Louis area. At your first visit, you can expect a warm greeting from our team, a relaxed conversation about your goals, digital imaging, and a clear explanation of every option available to you. We'll review timelines, costs, insurance benefits, and easy financing so you leave with answers, not more questions.
If you're exploring braces for your child or Invisalign for yourself, Dr. McDermott and our team are ready to help you gain more confidence with a smile you'll love. Both locations offer convenient parking and flexible scheduling to fit your busy week.
Take the first step today. We'll see you soon.