Orthodontics
Braces & aligners for kids, teens, and adults, expert orthodontic care made simple.
- Personalized treatment plans for every stage of life
- Modern braces and Invisalign® options
- Flexible payment options & insurance-friendly
Orthodontic Care at Mount Penn Orthodontics
A healthy, confident smile starts with proper alignment. At Mount Penn Orthodontics, we provide comprehensive orthodontic care designed to improve not only how your smile looks, but how it functions.
Orthodontic treatment can help correct crowding, spacing, bite issues, and jaw alignment concerns. Whether your child needs early monitoring, your teen is ready for braces, or you’re considering treatment as an adult, we create personalized plans that fit your goals and lifestyle.
Why are orthodontics important?
Orthodontics is about more than straight teeth. Proper alignment can:
- Improved Oral Health by making teeth easier to clean
- Reduce uneven tooth wear and jaw discomfort
- Correct bite problems such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites
- Support long-term dental health
- Boost confidence at every age
When teeth and jaws align correctly, your entire smile works better and feels better.
Check out more of our services
Braces for Teens & Kids
We provide comprehensive orthodontic treatment for children and teens in Reading, PA, including traditional metal braces and Invisalign® clear aligners when appropriate.
Adult Braces
Braces aren’t just for adolescents! Adults can benefit from orthodontic treatment as well. Count on Mount Penn to offer quality adult orthodontics.
Invisalign
Looking for a more subtle alternative to braces? Invisalign® clear aligners are a popular option for teens and adults who want a nearly invisible way to straighten their teeth.
Orthodontic Consultations
Wondering if braces are right for you or your child? Consultations are always free at Mount Penn. No pressure, no push, just the facts.
What are the benefits of early orthodontic treatment?
Early orthodontic evaluations allow us to monitor growth and guide developing teeth into healthier positions.
Benefits of early treatment may include:
- Creating space for permanent teeth
- Reducing the need for extractions later
- Correcting harmful oral habits
- Guiding jaw growth properly
- Simplifying future orthodontic treatment
Not every child needs early treatment, but an evaluation around age 7 helps determine the right timing.
An orthodontist may recommend treating a child who still has baby teeth if we detect:
- Underbites (lower teeth in front of upper teeth)
- Crossbites that cause jaw shifting
- Crowded front teeth
- Excessive spacing
- Extra or missing teeth
- Teeth that do not meet properly
- Thumb or pacifier habits affecting jaw development
Early guidance from our orthodontists can prevent more complex issues as permanent teeth come in.
What orthodontic services do you offer?
We offer a full range of orthodontic services tailored to each patient’s needs:
- Adolescent Orthodontic Treatment
Comprehensive braces or aligners during the teen years. - Clear or Ceramic Braces
A more discreet alternative to traditional metal braces. - Early Orthodontic Treatment (Phase I & II)
Guided treatment during growth and development. - HERBST appliance
A device used to correct certain bite relationships.
- Orthodontic Evaluation
A comprehensive assessment of alignment and jaw development. - Palatal Expander
Used to widen the upper jaw when needed. - Retainers
Custom retainers to maintain long-term results. - Traditional Metal Braces
Highly effective for correcting mild to complex alignment issues.
Orthodontic Treatment Option Matrix
| Option | Indications (examples) | Typical Ages | Visibility | Office Visits | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Metal Braces | Mild–complex crowding/spacing, rotations, bite correction (overbite/underbite/crossbite) | 10–18 (varies) | Most visible | Every 4–8 weeks for adjustments | ~12–24 months (case‑dependent) |
| Clear/Ceramic Braces | Similar to metal braces; chosen for aesthetics when aligners aren’t ideal | 12–18 (varies) | Less visible than metal | Every 4–8 weeks for adjustments | ~12–24 months (case‑dependent) |
| Clear Aligners (Teens) | Mild–moderate alignment, spacing, some bite issues; requires high wear compliance | 12–18 (varies) | Nearly invisible | Check‑ins about 6–10 weeks; new trays at home | ~6–18 months with 20–22 hrs/day wear |
| Palatal Expander (Phase 1) (early/interceptive) | Narrow upper jaw, crossbite, crowding relief before comprehensive treatment | 7–11 (Phase 1) | Hidden on palate | Activations at start; then 4–8 week checks | Active ~3–6 months, then stabilization |
Book a Free Orthodontic Consultation
We want to help set you or your child up for long-term success. That’s why we offer FREE Orthodontic Consultations.
During your complimentary consultation, our orthodontist will:
- Perform a visual orthodontic evaluation
- Review digital X-rays if needed
- Discuss personalized treatment options
- Provide a clear cost estimate
- Answer all your questions
Consultations are quick, informative, and pressure-free.
Complimentary Consultation Includes:
- Visual Orthodontic Evaluation
- Panoramic X-ray (if needed)
What To Expect During Orthodontic Treatment
Starting orthodontic care can feel overwhelming, but knowing the process makes it simple. Here’s what the journey typically looks like:
Step 1: Free Consultation & Exam
Meet with our orthodontist for a complete exam, photos, and digital X-rays (if needed). We’ll discuss goals, timing, and options.
Step 2: Personalized Treatment Plan
We create an orthodontic plan tailored to your child’s needs—whether braces, aligners, or an expander. We’ll review costs, insurance, and financing.
Step 3: Appliance Placement
Braces, aligners, or other appliances are fitted comfortably. We explain how to care for them at home and what to expect in the first few days.
Step 4: Regular Adjustment Visits
Every 4–8 weeks (braces) or 6–10 weeks (aligners), your child returns for adjustments and progress checks. These visits keep treatment on track.
Step 5: Progress Milestones
As teeth move into place, we celebrate each step—whether closing gaps, correcting bite, or aligning the smile. Parents receive updates along the way.
Step 6: Appliance Removal
Once treatment goals are reached, braces or aligners are removed. Your child can enjoy their new smile with confidence.
Step 7: Retention & Long-Term Care
A custom retainer maintains results and prevents shifting. We’ll guide you on wear schedules and follow-up care to keep the smile for life.
Orthodontic FAQs
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an evaluation around age 7.
Most comprehensive treatment lasts between 12–24 months, depending on complexity.
Some mild soreness is normal after adjustments, but it typically resolves quickly.
Yes. There is no upper age limit for orthodontic treatment.
Building Beautiful Smiles in Berks County.
Experience the Mount Penn Difference!
Whether you’re scheduling your child’s first orthodontic evaluation or ready to improve your own smile, we’re here to help.