97 Smiles Ann Arbor

Orthodontist in Ann Arbor, MI

Get a straighter, healthier-looking smile with orthodontic care tailored to your teeth, bite, and goals.

  • Affordable Braces
  • Insurance Support
  • Flexible Payment Options
  • Personalized Care
Orthodontics in Ann Arbor

Visit Our Ann Arbor Office

A close-up of teeth wearing a fixed orthodontic retainer

Looking for an Orthodontist in Ann Arbor?

Crowded teeth, gaps, and bite problems can affect how your smile looks, how your teeth fit together, and how easily you clean them. Orthodontic treatment can help address these concerns at different stages of life.

At 97 Smiles Ann Arbor, we’ll evaluate your teeth and bite, discuss your goals, and explain which treatment options may be right for you. We’ll also help you understand the costs, insurance benefits, and payment options available before you begin.

Treatment options

Orthodontic Treatment Options in Ann Arbor

The right orthodontic treatment depends on your tooth alignment, bite, oral health, and goals. During your consultation, we’ll help you understand which options may be appropriate for your needs.

A patient holding a clear aligner

Traditional Metal Braces

Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires to move teeth gradually into better positions. They’re a versatile option for treating many alignment and bite problems in children, teens, and adults. Braces may be worth considering if you have crowded teeth, gaps, or bite concerns that need more controlled tooth movement.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces work like traditional braces but use tooth-colored brackets that blend in more closely with your teeth. They can be a good option for patients who want fixed braces that are less noticeable. Your consultation can help determine whether ceramic braces are suitable for your treatment needs.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners use a series of removable trays to move teeth gradually. They offer an alternative to brackets and wires and can make eating and brushing easier because the trays are removable. However, aligners aren’t suitable for every case. Your provider can assess your teeth and bite to determine whether they’re a reasonable option.

Orthodontic Care for Children, Teens, and Adults

Orthodontic treatment isn’t limited to teenagers. Children, teens, and adults may all benefit from an evaluation, depending on their dental development and concerns. The right time to begin depends on the individual. An evaluation can help you understand whether treatment is recommended and when to start.

Your treatment, step by step

What Happens During Your Orthodontic Consultation?

Your first appointment is an opportunity to discuss your concerns, understand your options, and get answers before committing to treatment.

  1. 01

    Discuss Your Goals

    We’ll talk about what you’d like to change, whether you have concerns about your bite, and what you hope to achieve from treatment.

  2. 02

    Evaluate Your Teeth and Bite

    Your provider will examine your teeth and bite. Depending on your needs, photographs, X-rays, or other diagnostic records may be recommended to help plan treatment.

  3. 03

    Review Your Treatment Options

    You’ll learn which options may work for your case, how they differ, and what to expect during treatment.

  4. 04

    Discuss Costs and Payment Options

    We’ll explain the proposed treatment costs and help you review applicable insurance benefits and available payment arrangements. That way, you’ll have a clearer understanding of the financial commitment before moving forward.

Insurance & payment

Orthodontic Insurance and Financing Options

Paying for orthodontic treatment is an important part of the decision. At 97 Smiles, our team can help you review your insurance benefits and understand the payment options available for your treatment.

Insurance Coverage Made Simpler

97 Smiles works with Medicaid, CHIP, and major dental insurance providers, including:

  • Medicaid
  • CHIP
  • Aetna
  • Delta Dental
  • Cigna
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Humana
  • UnitedHealthcare
  • DentaQuest
  • Envolve
  • MetLife

Coverage depends on your specific plan, eligibility, and the treatment recommended. For example, Medicaid and CHIP orthodontic benefits may have additional requirements, including medical-necessity criteria for eligible patients.

Our team can help verify your benefits, explain what your plan may cover, and assist with insurance paperwork. We’ll help clarify your expected out-of-pocket costs before treatment begins.

Flexible Financing and Payment Plans

If insurance doesn’t cover the full cost, or you’re paying out of pocket, ask about available financing options.

Depending on eligibility and current availability, options may include third-party financing through providers such as CareCredit and Sunbit, along with in-house payment arrangements.

A clear aligner being fitted

How Long Does Orthodontic Treatment Take?

Treatment time varies based on how much your teeth need to move, the complexity of your bite, and the type of appliance used.

Some cases can be treated in a shorter period, while more complex alignment problems may take longer. Following your provider’s instructions and attending scheduled appointments can help keep treatment on track.

During your consultation, we’ll discuss the likely timeline for your case and what may affect it.

A treatment room at the 97 Smiles Ann Arbor office

How to Care for Your Teeth During Orthodontic Treatment

Good oral hygiene matters throughout treatment. Braces and aligners can change how you clean your teeth, so it’s important to follow the care instructions provided.

  • Brush carefully around brackets and along the gumline.
  • Clean between your teeth daily with floss or another recommended tool.
  • Follow instructions about foods that could damage braces.
  • Wear clear aligners for the recommended amount of time.
  • Attend scheduled appointments so your progress can be checked.
  • Contact your provider if a bracket, wire, or aligner breaks or causes a problem.
  • Keep up with routine dental checkups and cleanings.

These habits help protect your teeth and gums while orthodontic treatment is underway.

Why Ann Arbor Families Choose 97 Smiles for Orthodontic Care

Choosing an orthodontic provider means finding a team that explains your options, respects your concerns, and helps you understand the financial side of treatment.

At 97 Smiles, we aim to make that process clear and manageable.

  • Affordable Monthly Payments

    Braces start at $99 per month under our advertised offer. Ask about eligibility, payment terms, and other available arrangements to understand what treatment would cost for your situation.

  • Help With Insurance Benefits

    Our team can help you review your insurance, check applicable benefits, and understand what your plan may contribute toward treatment.

  • Clear Cost Information

    Before you begin, ask for a breakdown of the treatment plan, expected costs, insurance contribution, and any applicable fees. We’ll help you understand the financial details so you can make an informed decision.

  • Care That Puts You at Ease

    Orthodontic treatment can bring questions, especially if it’s your first time wearing braces. We emphasize clear communication and a considerate approach so you can understand each stage and feel comfortable asking questions.

  • A Convenient Ann Arbor Location

    Our office is located at 3174 Packard St in Ann Arbor, making it accessible for patients in the city and nearby communities.

  • Trusted by Families Across the Country

    97 Smiles reports serving more than 5,000 families across the United States. Our focus is on making dental care approachable through clear communication, practical payment options, and patient-focused service.

Helpful answers

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have a question? Our Ann Arbor team is happy to help.

When should my child see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial orthodontic checkup by age 7. This doesn’t mean every child needs braces at that age. The evaluation helps identify developing concerns and determine whether treatment is needed now, later, or not at all.

Can adults get braces?

Yes. Adults can benefit from orthodontic treatment when their teeth and gums are healthy enough for the planned movement. Braces or clear aligners may be options, depending on the alignment and bite concerns.

Are braces better than clear aligners?

Neither is automatically better for everyone. Braces can treat many alignment and bite problems, while clear aligners offer a removable alternative for suitable cases. Your provider can explain which options are appropriate for your needs.

Does Medicaid cover braces in Michigan?

Medicaid may cover orthodontic treatment for eligible patients when specific requirements are met. Coverage often depends on age, medical necessity, and the patient’s plan. Contact our team to discuss benefit verification, and confirm coverage with your plan before beginning treatment.

Does CHIP cover orthodontic treatment?

CHIP benefits depend on the specific program and eligibility requirements. Orthodontic coverage may be limited to certain cases. Our team can help you check your benefits and understand what information your plan requires.

How much do braces cost at 97 Smiles?

Our advertised braces offer start at $99 per month. Your actual cost depends on your treatment plan, eligibility, initial payment, and financing terms. Contact our office for current offer details and a breakdown of your expected costs.

How long will I need braces?

Treatment time depends on the complexity of your case, the type of braces used, and how your teeth respond. Your provider can estimate a timeline after evaluating your teeth and bite.

Do I need a referral to see an orthodontist?

Referral requirements depend on your insurance plan and the provider’s policies. Contact our office to ask whether you can schedule directly and whether your plan requires a referral or prior authorization.

Book Ann Arbor

Book an Orthodontic Consultation in Ann Arbor

If you’re considering braces or clear aligners for yourself or your child, start with a consultation. We’ll discuss your concerns, explain the treatment options that may suit you, and help you understand the costs and payment arrangements.

Book your orthodontic consultation with 97 Smiles in Ann Arbor.

97 Smiles

3174 Packard St

Ann Arbor, MI 48108

Phone: (734) 316-9707