Finding the right orthodontist is about more than straightening teeth. You’re choosing a team you’ll see throughout your treatment — one that should make you feel comfortable, informed, and confident about every step of the process.
At Bates Family Orthodontics, we provide orthodontic care for children, teens, and adults right here in Lynchburg, Virginia.
Whether you’re exploring braces for your child, wondering whether Invisalign could work for you, or simply want an expert opinion about your smile, your first consultation is designed to give you clear answers without unnecessary pressure or jargon.
Orthodontic Care for Lynchburg Families
Dr. Bates and the Bates Family Orthodontics team serve patients throughout Lynchburg and the surrounding area from our office at:
Bates Family Orthodontics
1925 Thomson Dr.
Lynchburg, VA 24501
(434) 846-4014
Our goal is to make orthodontic treatment understandable from the beginning.
We’ll explain what we’re seeing, what treatment options are available, how long treatment is likely to take, and what you can expect financially and practically before you make a decision.
That approach has helped Bates Family Orthodontics earn over 700 five-star reviews from patients and families across the Lynchburg area.
Invisalign in Lynchburg, VA
Who is Invisalign for?
Invisalign may be appropriate for children, teens and adults with concerns such as:
- Crowding
- Spacing
- Certain bite problems
- Crooked or rotated teeth
Not every orthodontic case should be treated the same way, which is why your consultation comes first.
Dr. Bates will evaluate your teeth and bite and let you know whether Invisalign is a strong option for your specific needs — or whether another treatment would produce a better result.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Treatment time varies based on the complexity of your case and how consistently aligners are worn.
A typical case may take approximately 14 to 18 months, although some cases are shorter and others require more time.
At your consultation, we’ll give you a personalized estimate rather than asking you to rely on a generic timeline.
For patients who want a less noticeable alternative to traditional braces, Invisalign may offer an effective way to straighten teeth using a series of clear, removable aligners. Unlike braces, aligners can be removed for meals, brushing, flossing, and special occasions. You’ll wear each set according to the schedule provided by your orthodontist as your teeth gradually move toward their planned positions.
Braces in Lynchburg, VA
What age should a child get braces?
There isn’t one universal age for braces.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial orthodontic evaluation around age seven, but that does not mean every seven-year-old needs braces.
For many children, the best treatment is simply monitoring growth and development until the timing is right.
When treatment is recommended, we’ll explain why we’re recommending it now rather than later and what we expect treatment to accomplish.
How long do braces take?
Many orthodontic treatments fall somewhere around 20 to 22 months, but treatment length depends on your starting point, growth, bite, treatment goals, and how your teeth respond.
During your consultation, we’ll give you a more useful estimate based on your actual case.
Traditional braces remain one of the most dependable and versatile ways to correct orthodontic concerns. Today’s braces can treat everything from relatively straightforward alignment issues to more complex bite and jaw relationships, which makes them an effective option for many children, teenagers, and adults.
Bates Family Orthodontics offers metal braces and clear braces.
Orthodontics for Children, Teens, and Adults
Children’s Orthodontics
Early orthodontic evaluations allow Dr. Bates to monitor how adult teeth are coming in and how the jaws are developing.
Some children benefit from early treatment. Others simply need periodic observation until they’re ready for comprehensive orthodontics later.
The goal isn’t to start treatment as early as possible. It’s to start at the right time.
Orthodontics for Teens
The teenage years are one of the most common times for orthodontic treatment because most permanent teeth have erupted while growth is still occurring.
Depending on the case, teens may be candidates for traditional braces, clear braces, or Invisalign.
Adult Orthodontics
It’s also completely normal to begin orthodontic treatment as an adult.
Some adults are addressing crowding or bite problems they’ve had for years. Others had braces earlier in life and have experienced shifting over time.
We’ll help you understand what’s possible and which treatment options fit both your clinical needs and your lifestyle.
What to Expect at Your First Orthodontic Consultation
Your first visit is about getting answers.
We’ll take a 3D radiograph (ultra-low dose CBCT which has less radiation than the traditional panoramic/cephalometric images taken), a set of photos, and a digital scan of your teeth. Then we’ll evaluate your teeth and bite and talk with you about what you’d like to change.
Dr. Bates will then explain:
- What he sees
- Whether treatment is recommended
- What your treatment options are
- How long treatment may take
- What appointments will look like
- Treatment cost, financing options, and any orthodontic insurance benefits you may have
You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and understand your options before deciding how you’d like to proceed.
Why Lynchburg Families Choose Bates Family Orthodontics
Orthodontic treatment can last months or even years, so the experience you have with the practice matters.
Patients choose Bates Family Orthodontics for our friendly and welcoming staff, comfortable office space, and knowledgeable doctors.
And with over 700 five-star reviews, generations of local families have shared their own experiences with the practice.
Conveniently Located in Lynchburg
Bates Family Orthodontics is located at:
1925 Thomson Dr.
Lynchburg, VA 24501
We serve patients throughout Lynchburg as well as surrounding communities, including Forest.
If you live in Forest and are considering Bates Family Orthodontics, we’ve put together additional information specifically about the drive, appointment schedule, and what it’s like to travel to our office for treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontic Treatment
What insurance do you accept?
At Bates Family Orthodontics, we accept most major insurance policies in Virginia. Our team would be happy to offer you a complimentary benefit check or verify your existing policy to ensure that you receive the maximum amount of coverage possible*.
Our team will file your insurance claims for you to ensure that your smile journey is stress-free!
*Please note that if you change insurance policies during your treatment, the financially responsible party is accountable for all current and un-billed charges.
Our team can also help you understand flexible payment plans and flexible financing.
How long does orthodontic treatment usually take?
Treatment length depends on your diagnosis and treatment plan.
Many patients complete treatment within approximately 14 to 22 months, but your individual timeline may be shorter or longer.
We’ll give you a personalized estimate during your consultation.
Do you see children, or only teens and adults?
We see patients of all ages.
Children can benefit from an early orthodontic evaluation even when treatment isn’t necessary yet, while teens and adults may have several treatment options depending on their needs.
What happens at a first consultation?
Your first appointment typically includes a 3D radiograph, a set of photos, and a digital scan of your teeth, followed by an evaluation with Dr. Bates.
We’ll discuss what we find, answer your questions, and explain any recommended treatment options and expected timeline.
What are your office hours?
Bates Family Orthodontics is open:
Mon – Thur: 8:00AM to 4:30PM
For current availability or to schedule a consultation, call (434) 846-4014 or use our online appointment request form.
