OUR TREATMENTS

Find your right fit — braces or Invisalign.

Options for kids, teens, and adults — with a clear plan and a team that makes the process feel simple.

Clear next steps Modern options Family-friendly care
Orthodontic treatment options
Top-rated
Hundreds of happy smiles
Ask anything at your free consult — we’ll explain options, timing, and what to expect.
TREATMENT OPTIONS

You’ve got options.

Pick the best fit for your goals and lifestyle — then scroll into the full library (all treatments in one page).

Most versatile Metal braces

Metal Braces

Reliable, precise, and great for complex corrections.

  • Strong, predictable results
  • Great for kids & teens
  • Best for complex bite issues
More subtle Clear braces

Clear Braces

A more discreet look with the control of braces.

  • Blend in better than metal
  • Great for many case types
  • Popular for teens & adults
Custom-fit LightForce clear braces

LightForce Clear Braces

Digitally planned, custom-designed braces for precision + comfort.

  • Designed to your smile
  • Comfort-forward approach
  • Efficient, planned movement
Most discreet Invisalign clear aligners

Invisalign

Clear aligners designed for comfort and flexibility.

  • Nearly invisible look
  • Remove to eat & brush
  • Great for busy teens & adults
Learn more Removable
HOW THEY WORK

Fixed vs. removable appliances

A quick, clear comparison — then explore each option in the library below.

Fixed

Braces

Always on

Attached to your teeth for consistent, controlled movement.

  • Great for complex bite corrections
  • No remembering to wear trays
  • Clear progress with regular adjustments
Removable

Clear Aligners

Wear daily

Clear trays you remove for eating and brushing.

  • Discreet and lifestyle-friendly
  • Remove to eat (no food restrictions)
  • Best results with consistent wear
WHAT WE HELP WITH

Common concerns we treat

Not sure where you fit? Start with the library above — or schedule a free consult and we’ll guide the best path.

Crowded teethMake room for a healthier bite.
GapsClose spaces for better function.
OverbiteImprove comfort and balance.
UnderbiteAlign jaws and bite mechanics.
CrossbiteReduce uneven wear and strain.
Protruding teethSupport confidence + protection.
FAQ

Quick answers, before you visit.

Keep it simple — these are the most common questions we hear.

How do I choose between braces and Invisalign?

It depends on goals, complexity, and lifestyle. We’ll recommend the best match at your free consult.

Can teens do Invisalign?

Yes — the key is consistent wear. If consistency is tough, braces may be a better fit.

What happens at the free consult?

We’ll review goals, take needed records, explain options, and map out next steps clearly.

Where can I find care / emergencies info?

Open the “Ortho Info” tab in the treatments library above — it includes care, food tips, soreness, and emergencies.

Ready to pick your best option? Schedule a free consult — we’ll build a plan that fits real life.
EXPLORE

All treatments — in one place.

Click a tab to explore details (no extra pages needed). You can also link directly to any tab from your menu.

INVISALIGN

Invisalign in Shelby and Gastonia, NC.

Orthodontic Associates offers Invisalign for teens and adults at its Shelby and Gastonia offices. At a first visit, patients normally have photos, X-rays, and a scan, then meet with the treatment coordinator and doctor to review treatment options. Financing can also be reviewed if they are ready.

Clear aligner option For teens & adults Shelby & Gastonia Plan reviewed at your visit
Typically includesPhotos, X-rays + scan
Meet withCoordinator + doctor
Treatment optionsReviewed at your visit
Invisalign alignersMade over several weeks

How it works

1
First-visit recordsPatients normally have photos, X-rays, and a scan.
2
Review your optionsMeet with the treatment coordinator and doctor to review treatment options and, if you are ready, financing.
3
Plan the next stepIf Invisalign is selected, the aligners require several weeks to be made.
Explore office details and prepare for your first visit: Shelby office, Gastonia office, and What to expect at your first visit.
TEENS

Teens have options — braces or Invisalign.

We’ll recommend what fits the bite, the goals, and the lifestyle. For some teens, Invisalign is perfect — for others, braces are the best path.

Clear plan Confidence-first Busy schedules Parent-friendly
METAL BRACES

Strong, predictable results.

Metal braces are a reliable option for many cases — especially when bite correction is more complex.

Most versatile Great control Kids + teens Complex bites
CLEAR BRACES

A more subtle look — with the control of braces.

Clear braces blend in better than metal, while still giving strong, predictable movement.

More subtle Fixed appliance Teens & adults Great for many cases
LIGHTFORCE

Custom-designed braces built for precision.

LightForce uses a digital workflow and custom approach to make treatment more intentional and efficient.

Custom-fit Digital planning Comfort-forward Modern option
ALL AGES

Kids. Teens. Adults. Everyone deserves options.

Orthodontics isn’t one-size-fits-all. We customize treatment based on age, goals, and lifestyle.

KidsEarly guidance
TeensBraces or aligners
AdultsDiscreet options
AllClear next steps