Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry focused on diagnosing and treating problems with tooth alignment and the bite. Orthodontic treatment can use braces, clear aligners, and other orthodontic appliances to gradually move teeth into healthier positions and improve the function and appearance of your smile.

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who completes dental school followed by additional specialized training in orthodontics. Orthodontists diagnose orthodontic problems, develop treatment plans, and provide treatment such as braces and clear aligners.

At Carter Orthodontics, Dr. David Carter and Dr. Katherine Cooper provide orthodontic care for children, teens, and adults throughout the CSRA.

Orthodontic treatment can improve tooth alignment, bite function, oral hygiene, and the appearance of your smile. Treatment is personalized based on your teeth, bite, jaw development, age, and treatment goals.

No. Orthodontic treatment can be appropriate for children, teenagers, and adults. Treatment options include traditional braces, ceramic braces, and clear aligners, depending on the patient’s individual needs.

Your first visit is designed to evaluate your smile, discuss your goals, and determine whether orthodontic treatment may be appropriate.

Your consultation may include: a review of your dental and orthodontic history, an examination of your teeth and bite, digital photographs and diagnostic imaging when needed, discussion of treatment options, an overview of estimated treatment time, and a discussion of treatment costs, insurance, and payment options.

Carter Orthodontics offers free consultations, including in-person and virtual options.

No. You can contact Carter Orthodontics directly to schedule an orthodontic consultation. You should continue regular dental visits with your general dentist during orthodontic treatment.

Yes. Carter Orthodontics offers virtual consultations for patients who would like to discuss their orthodontic needs before visiting an office.

A virtual consultation can be a convenient first step, but some patients may still need an in-person examination or diagnostic records before treatment can be recommended.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. An early evaluation does not necessarily mean that treatment will begin immediately. It allows the orthodontist to monitor dental and jaw development and determine the appropriate timing for treatment.

You can enjoy many of your favorite foods while wearing braces, but some foods should be avoided because they can damage brackets or wires.

Hard, sticky, and very chewy foods can increase the risk of broken appliances. Your orthodontic team will provide specific instructions about foods to avoid during treatment.

Yes. Clear aligners are removable, so you can take them out when eating and drinking.

For best results, follow your orthodontist’s instructions about how long to wear your aligners each day. Brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in whenever possible.

Yes. Patients can generally participate in sports while undergoing orthodontic treatment. A properly fitted mouthguard is recommended for contact sports to help protect your teeth, lips, cheeks, and orthodontic appliances.

Yes. Most patients can continue playing musical instruments while wearing braces. It may take some time to adjust to the appliances, particularly with certain wind instruments.

If you experience discomfort while playing, ask your orthodontic team for recommendations.

Good oral hygiene is especially important during orthodontic treatment.

Brush thoroughly around your brackets and along the gumline, floss regularly, and follow your orthodontist’s recommendations for cleaning between teeth. Your orthodontic team can show you techniques and tools that work well with your braces.

Clean your aligners regularly according to your orthodontist’s instructions. Rinse them with lukewarm water and gently clean them as recommended.

Avoid hot water, which can distort the plastic. Keep your aligners in their case whenever you are not wearing them.

Yes. Most patients can travel while undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Before traveling, make sure you have the supplies you need. If you wear clear aligners, bring your aligners and storage case. If you wear braces, consider packing orthodontic wax and any other recommended supplies.

You can schedule a free consultation with Carter Orthodontics online or by calling (706) 650-0468.

We offer consultations at our offices in Martinez/Augusta, GA; North Augusta, SC; and Aiken, SC, as well as virtual consultation options. Carter Orthodontics also provides mobile orthodontic services through the Brace Bus.

Carter Orthodontics has three office locations serving the CSRA:

Martinez / Augusta, Georgia – 456 Fury’s Ferry Rd, Martinez, GA 30907

North Augusta, South Carolina – 1743 Georgia Ave, North Augusta, SC 29841

Aiken, South Carolina – 1160 Silver Bluff Rd SW, Aiken, SC 29803

Visit the Office Locations page for directions, phone numbers, and current office hours.

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If you experience an orthodontic problem such as a broken bracket, loose wire, or other appliance issue, contact Carter Orthodontics for guidance.

For urgent situations involving significant injury, uncontrolled bleeding, difficulty breathing, or another medical emergency, seek appropriate emergency medical care.