Your Trusted Tallahassee Orthodontist: Clark Orthodontics
What Does a Tallahassee Orthodontist Do?
A Tallahassee orthodontist specializes in diagnosing, preventing, and treating misaligned teeth and jaws. Unlike general dentists, orthodontists complete two to three additional years of specialized training after dental school. Dr. Andrew E. Clark brings this advanced expertise to families throughout Tallahassee, helping pre-teens, teens, and adults achieve straighter, healthier smiles.
Orthodontics goes beyond aesthetics, because when your teeth and jaws don’t align properly, you may experience difficulty chewing, increased tooth decay, gum issues, and jaw discomfort. Proper alignment affects your overall oral health. Dr. Clark addresses these concerns using advanced treatment options including the Damon® System, Invisalign®, and surgical orthodontics for more complex cases.
So what sets an orthodontist apart from your dentist in Tallahassee? General dentists focus on overall oral health, including cleanings, fillings, and preventive care. Orthodontists dedicate their practice entirely to tooth movement and jaw alignment. Dr. Clark earned his Doctorate in Dental Medicine and Master of Science in Orthodontics from the University of Florida, graduating cum laude. His credentials and clinical training make him a trusted choice for orthodontic care in the Tallahassee area.
Every smile is unique. Dr. Clark creates a custom plan designed around your specific needs, goals, and lifestyle. If you’re considering treatment for yourself or your child, our Tallahassee practice offers a welcoming environment where smiles truly come to life.
Benefits of Choosing Clark Orthodontics in Tallahassee
Tallahassee families choose Clark Orthodontics for many reasons, from healthier teeth and gums to faster treatment times and flexible payment options. Here’s what sets our practice apart.
Healthier Teeth and Gums
Straight teeth are easier to brush and floss effectively. When teeth overlap or crowd together, food particles and plaque hide in hard-to-reach spaces. Proper alignment reduces your risk of cavities, gum disease, and long-term dental problems. At Clark Orthodontics, every treatment plan starts with your oral health as the foundation.
Boosted Confidence
A well-aligned smile changes how you carry yourself. You’ll smile more in photos, feel more at ease in meetings, and stop worrying about social situations. Your beautiful smile, confidence, and satisfaction are what matter most to Dr. Clark.
Faster Treatment with Self-Ligating Braces
The Damon® System uses self-ligating brackets that don’t require elastic bands. This design allows teeth to move more freely, and Clark Orthodontics patients often experience:
- Increased comfort during treatment
- Decreased treatment time compared to traditional braces
- Reduced strain on gums, bones, and teeth
- Fewer adjustment appointments at our Tallahassee practice
Discreet Options with Invisalign®
For those who prefer a nearly invisible approach, Invisalign® offers clear, removable aligners. You can eat whatever you want, maintain your normal oral hygiene routine, and straighten your teeth without anyone noticing your treatment. Clark Orthodontics is an Invisalign platinum provider, giving our patients access to experienced, high-volume Invisalign care.
Complimentary Consultations
Financial concerns shouldn’t prevent you from exploring your options. Our practice offers complimentary consultations so you can learn about your treatment possibilities without any financial obligation upfront.
How Orthodontic Treatment Works at Clark Orthodontics
Knowing what to expect makes starting treatment less intimidating. The process at Clark Orthodontics breaks down into five clear steps.
Step 1: Schedule Your Complimentary Consultation
No referral is required to get started. Call our practice at (850) 385-2822 or use our online scheduling system. A referral from your dentist is welcome but not necessary. Dr. Clark does ask that you’ve had a dental cleaning within the past year before your first visit.
Step 2: Thorough Examination
At Clark Orthodontics, Dr. Clark performs a detailed evaluation using advanced diagnostic tools including Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT). This 3D imaging technology provides precise views of your teeth, jaws, and facial structure. Based on these findings, he develops a tailored treatment plan specifically for you.
Step 3: Choose Your Treatment Option
After reviewing your options, you’ll select the approach that fits your lifestyle and goals:
- Self-Ligating Braces (Damon® System): Efficient, comfortable brackets available in metal or clear
- Invisalign®: Clear, removable aligners ideal for mild to moderate cases
- Surgical Orthodontics: For complex jaw misalignment requiring coordinated care
Step 4: Active Treatment Phase
Once treatment begins, you’ll visit our Tallahassee practice regularly for progress check-ups. With self-ligating braces, these appointments are often shorter and less frequent than with traditional braces. Invisalign® patients typically receive multiple sets of aligners and switch to a new one each week.
Step 5: Retention and Maintenance
After achieving your ideal alignment at Clark Orthodontics, the retention phase begins. Custom retainers help maintain your results for years to come. Dr. Clark provides clear instructions for retainer wear and schedules follow-up visits to monitor your smile’s stability.
Who Is a Candidate for Orthodontic Treatment?
Candidates for orthodontic treatment include children ages seven and older, teenagers, and adults. Common treatable conditions include crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites.
Children (Ages 7+)
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children receive their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. Early evaluation doesn’t always mean early treatment. Sometimes Dr. Clark monitors growth patterns and recommends waiting. Other times, early intervention guides jaw development and creates space for permanent teeth, potentially simplifying future treatment.
Teenagers
The teen years remain the most common time for orthodontic treatment. With most permanent teeth in place and jaws still developing, teens often respond well to braces or Invisalign®. Many Tallahassee teens appreciate the discreet appearance of Damon Clear braces or Invisalign® aligners. If your teen currently sees a dentist in Tallahassee, ask about a referral or schedule directly with our practice.
Adults
It’s never too late for a straighter smile. According to the AAO, roughly 1 in 4 orthodontic patients today is an adult. Whether they missed the opportunity as teens or experienced shifting over time, adults of all ages benefit from treatment at Clark Orthodontics in Tallahassee, where Dr. Clark applies his advanced University of Florida training to every case.
Common Conditions We Treat
| Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Crowding | Teeth overlapping due to insufficient space |
| Spacing | Gaps between teeth |
| Overbite | Upper front teeth extend too far over lower teeth |
| Underbite | Lower teeth sit in front of upper teeth |
| Crossbite | Upper teeth sit inside lower teeth when biting |
| Open Bite | Front teeth don’t touch when back teeth are closed |
A complimentary consultation at Clark Orthodontics determines whether you or your child is a candidate and which treatment approach suits your needs.
Why Tallahassee Families Trust Clark Orthodontics
Choosing an orthodontist means placing your smile in someone’s hands for months or even years. That’s a big decision. Tallahassee families trust Clark Orthodontics for several important reasons.
Exceptional Credentials and Training
Dr. Andrew E. Clark earned both his DMD and MS in Orthodontics from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. He graduated cum laude and received the Warren S. Kramer Award recognizing his clinical excellence. As a member of the National Dental Honor Society, Dr. Clark holds himself to the highest standards in orthodontic care. He is a certified Damon® System doctor with specialized training in Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) for precise diagnostics, Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADS) for complex tooth movement, and surgical orthodontics for jaw correction cases.
Experienced, Dedicated Team
Our team treats you like family. Long-tenured team members mean you’ll see familiar faces at every appointment. That consistency builds trust and ensures individualized care throughout your treatment. Some team members have been with the practice for nearly a decade, and that stability shows in every interaction.
Affordable Treatment Options
Cost shouldn’t stand between you and great orthodontic care. Clark Orthodontics offers flexible financing options that fit various budgets. During your complimentary consultation, our team reviews all payment possibilities and helps you find a plan that works for your family.
Advanced Technology
From 3D imaging to the Damon® System’s advanced bracket design, our Tallahassee practice invests in technology that improves accuracy, comfort, and results. These tools reflect our focus on excellence in personalized orthodontic care, and they’re a major reason Tallahassee families consider Clark Orthodontics a top choice for orthodontic treatment in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics in Tallahassee
How much do braces cost in Tallahassee?
The cost of braces in Tallahassee varies based on case complexity, treatment type, and duration. In general, orthodontic treatment can range from $3,000 to $7,000. During your complimentary consultation at Clark Orthodontics, Dr. Clark provides a detailed plan with exact pricing. We offer flexible financing options and work with most insurance plans.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Most treatment takes between 12 and 24 months, though some cases require shorter or longer timeframes. Factors affecting duration include the severity of misalignment, your age, and how well you follow Dr. Clark’s instructions. The Damon® System often achieves results more efficiently than traditional braces.
What is the difference between braces and Invisalign®?
| Feature | Self-Ligating Braces | Invisalign® |
|---|---|---|
| Visibility | Metal or clear brackets on teeth | Nearly invisible aligners |
| Removability | Fixed throughout treatment | Removable for eating and cleaning |
| Eating Restrictions | Some foods should be avoided | No restrictions when aligners are removed |
| Best For | Complex cases, all ages | Mild to moderate cases, teens and adults |
Self-ligating braces handle complex cases at any age, while Invisalign® works well for teens and adults with mild to moderate misalignment. Dr. Clark helps you determine which approach suits your specific needs during your consultation.
Does Clark Orthodontics offer flexible financing options?
Yes. Cost shouldn’t keep you from receiving excellent orthodontic care. We offer flexible financing options and accept most insurance plans. Our team works with you to create a payment arrangement that fits your budget.
At what age should my child see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial evaluation by age seven. At that stage, Dr. Clark can identify potential issues with jaw growth and emerging teeth. Early evaluation doesn’t always lead to early treatment, as sometimes monitoring is the best approach. It does ensure you have the information needed to make informed decisions about your child’s oral health.
Do I need a referral to visit Clark Orthodontics?
No referral is required. You can schedule directly with our Tallahassee practice by calling (850) 385-2822 or booking online. Dr. Clark does require that you’ve had a dental cleaning within the past year before your consultation.
Schedule Your Complimentary Consultation Today
Ready to get started? A straighter, healthier smile begins with a single phone call. Our practice offers complimentary consultations with no cost and no obligation. Dr. Clark personally evaluates every patient and creates a plan designed around your unique needs.
Give us a call to set up your first visit.
- Call us: (850) 385-2822
- Visit us: 5555 Roanoke Trail, Tallahassee, FL 32312
- Schedule online: clarkorthotally.com/contact
Experience our friendly staff and advanced care at Clark Orthodontics, where smiles come to life! Ready to get started for yourself, your teen, or your child? We’re here to help you achieve the confident, healthy smile you’ve been wanting. Helping you smile!