Austin Orthodontics: Why Families Choose Rise + Smile

What Is Orthodontic Treatment and Why Local Families Choose It

Orthodontic treatment is a dental specialty that corrects teeth alignment, bite issues, and jaw positioning. Using tools like braces, clear aligners, and other appliances, orthodontists shift teeth into their ideal positions over time, improving both function and appearance. For families searching for Austin orthodontics they can trust, the right provider makes all the difference.

Rise + Smile Orthodontics helps local families achieve healthier, more confident smiles through treatments designed for every age group. Our team creates customized care and smile blueprints that fit your lifestyle, whether you're a parent exploring options for your child or an adult ready to invest in yourself. We offer Invisalign, metal braces, and clear braces, each with distinct advantages depending on your goals and daily routine.

Modern orthodontic treatment goes well beyond straight teeth. Functional concerns like difficulty chewing, jaw discomfort, and uneven tooth wear? Treatment addresses those head-on. And then there are the cosmetic goals, giving you a smile you're genuinely proud to share. Dr. Mathue Faulkner and our team treat kids, teens, and adults throughout Austin, meeting each patient where they are in their smile goals.

The demand for orthodontic care in Austin continues to grow as more families recognize the long-term benefits of proper alignment. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, roughly 1 in 3 orthodontic patients today is an adult. From early intervention for kids to adult treatment options that fit packed schedules, today's orthodontics offers shorter treatment times, more comfortable materials, and options like clear aligners that didn't exist a generation ago. Affordable braces or Invisalign are both solid options for Austin family orthodontics, and we can help you figure out which one fits.

Can Adults Get Braces?

What Straight Teeth Actually Do for Your Health

Orthodontic treatment in Austin offers lasting improvements to your oral health, bite function, and confidence. Patients across the area experience better hygiene, reduced jaw discomfort, and a smile they feel great about, all backed by board-certified expertise and modern treatment options.

Easier Brushing, Healthier Gums

Crowded or overlapping teeth trap food and plaque in hard-to-reach spots. Straighter teeth are easier to brush and floss, which means you reduce your risk of cavities and gum disease over time. Your hygienist will notice the difference, too.

A Better Bite Protects Your Jaw

When your bite is off, your jaw works harder than it should. Correcting alignment issues helps prevent:

  • Jaw discomfort and TMJ issues
  • Chronic headaches
  • Uneven tooth wear
  • Difficulty chewing

Real Confidence, at Every Age

A smile you love changes how you carry yourself. Kids build self-esteem during formative years, and teens feel more at ease in social settings. For adults, it's often about rediscovering a confidence they thought was behind them.

Treatment That Fits Your Life

Today's orthodontics offers choices that match your preferences. Here's a quick comparison of the main options:

Feature Metal Braces Clear Braces Invisalign
Visibility Most noticeable Blends with teeth Nearly invisible
Removable? No No Yes
Best for All case types Mild to moderate Mild to moderate
Average treatment time 12–24 months 12–24 months 12–18 months

You don't have to sacrifice appearance during treatment, and the right choice depends on your case and preferences.

Airway and Breathing Support

Some orthodontic issues affect more than your teeth. Airway orthodontics in Austin addresses jaw alignment concerns that can open airways, improving breathing patterns and sleep quality for certain patients. It's one of the reasons our neighbors look beyond cosmetics when choosing care.

That's why so many families invest in orthodontic care. The results stick with you.

Orthodontics FAQs

Your Orthodontic Treatment Process at Rise + Smile

Getting started with orthodontics at Rise + Smile Orthodontics is simpler than you might think. Here's what to expect when you visit our Austin office:

  1. Free Consultation

Your first visit includes a 3D digital scan and a thorough evaluation of your teeth, bite, and jaw alignment. Dr. Faulkner reviews the imaging in detail, then discusses your goals face to face. You'll leave with a clear understanding of your options and a personalized smile blueprint. No obligation, no pressure.

  1. Choose Your Treatment

Based on your evaluation, you'll select the approach that fits your needs:

  • Invisalign: Removable clear aligners for flexibility
  • Metal braces: Efficient, reliable treatment for all case types
  • Clear braces: Ceramic brackets that blend with your teeth
  1. Fitting and Placement

Whether you're getting braces placed or receiving your first set of aligners, our team at Rise + Smile Orthodontics uses 3D scanning and digital treatment mapping to ensure precision from the start. We walk you through care instructions so you feel confident from day one. Most patients are surprised by how quick and easy this visit is.

  1. Regular Progress Visits

You'll return to our Austin office every 4 to 8 weeks for adjustments and progress checks. Dr. Faulkner personally reviews your progress at each visit, and these check-ins are typically quick, usually 20 to 30 minutes, keeping you on track toward your final results without eating up your afternoon.

  1. Retainer Phase

Once active treatment ends, retainers protect your results. The Rise + Smile Orthodontics Retainer Protection Plan gives you peace of mind, keeping your smile in place for years to come. Caring for retainers is simple, and we'll make sure you know exactly what to do so nothing is left to guesswork.

Why Local Dentists Trust Us With Their Patients

Who Is a Candidate for Orthodontic Treatment?

Most kids age 7 and older, teens, and adults are candidates for orthodontic treatment. Ideal candidates have crowding, spacing, bite issues, or jaw alignment concerns that affect function, appearance, or both. The right time to start depends on your unique situation, and board-certified orthodontist Dr. Faulkner, certified by the American Board of Orthodontics, evaluates each case individually.

Kids (Age 7+)

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial orthodontic check-up by age 7. At Rise + Smile Orthodontics, Dr. Faulkner can spot developing issues while your child's jaw and teeth are still growing. Early evaluation doesn't always mean early treatment. Sometimes it simply means monitoring until the ideal time to begin.

What About Teens?

Adolescence remains the most common time for braces or Invisalign. Teens benefit from having most of their permanent teeth in place while still experiencing some jaw growth. Rise + Smile Orthodontics offers options like Invisalign Teen, which includes features designed specifically for this age group and their busy school schedules.

Adults Make Up a Growing Share of Our Patients

More adults than ever are choosing orthodontic treatment in Austin. Modern options like Invisalign and clear braces make treatment discreet and manageable, even with busy work and family schedules. If you've been thinking about it for years, there's no wrong time to start.

Common Issues We Treat:

  • Crowding and spacing
  • Overbite and underbite
  • Crossbite and open bite
  • Crooked or rotated teeth
  • Jaw alignment concerns

A free consultation at Rise + Smile Orthodontics determines the best approach for your specific needs. Dr. Faulkner creates customized care for every patient, whether you're 7 or 70.

Why Patients Trust Rise + Smile Orthodontics

Choosing an orthodontist is a big decision. Here's why families across Austin trust our team with their smiles.

Board-Certified Expertise

Dr. Mathue Faulkner is certified by the American Board of Orthodontics, a distinction that only about one-third of practicing orthodontists pursue. That certification means advanced training, rigorous testing, and a deep focus on delivering the best possible outcomes. When you're searching for the best orthodontist in Austin, credentials like these matter.

Affordable Braces in Austin, TX

Finances shouldn't stand between you and a healthy smile. Our office offers flexible financing options and works with most insurance plans to make treatment affordable for local families. We break down costs clearly during your free consult so there are no surprises.

A Team That Knows Your Name

From your first call to your last retainer check, our team remembers who you are, what matters to you, and where you are in your treatment. We keep notes on the details that matter, like your kid's soccer schedule or your upcoming work trip, because that's how we stay ahead of your needs and keep visits running on time.

Proven Results You Can See

From kids getting their first braces to adults completing Invisalign treatment, we've helped patients of all ages achieve smile results they're proud of. Our before & afters gallery shows real results from real patients, and our 5-star reviews speak for themselves. We encourage every prospective patient to read what others have said before booking.

Community Connection

Dr. Faulkner is more than an orthodontist. He's a family man who cares deeply about giving back to the Austin community, supporting local schools and organizations like Austin Pets Alive. That commitment to our neighbors shows in every interaction at our office.

Frequently Asked Questions About Austin Orthodontics

How much do braces cost in Austin?

Braces cost in Austin varies based on treatment type (metal braces, clear braces, or Invisalign), case complexity, and duration. During your free consultation at Rise + Smile Orthodontics, you'll receive a detailed cost breakdown. We work with many insurance plans to maximize your benefits.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

Most treatments take between 12 and 24 months, though your timeline depends on your specific needs. Dr. Faulkner provides a realistic estimate during your consultation.

Is Invisalign as effective as braces?

For most patients, yes. Invisalign effectively treats crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, and many other alignment issues. Some complex cases may benefit more from metal braces. Dr. Faulkner will recommend the option that gives you the best results.

What age should my child first see an orthodontist?

The AAO recommends kids have their first check-up by age 7. Dr. Faulkner can identify potential bite or spacing issues while your child's teeth and jaws are still developing.

Does Rise + Smile offer free consultations?

Yes! We offer a free consult that includes digital imaging and a personalized smile blueprint discussion. There's no obligation.

What's the difference between metal braces and clear braces?

Metal braces use stainless steel brackets and are highly effective for all case types. Clear braces use ceramic brackets that blend with your natural tooth color. Both achieve excellent results, and the choice often comes down to personal preference.

Schedule Your Free Orthodontic Consultation in Austin Today

Ready to get started? Dr. Mathue Faulkner and our team at Rise + Smile Orthodontics are here to create customized care that fits your goals, schedule, and budget.

Book your free consultation today:

With flexible financing and insurance-friendly policies, getting started is easier than you'd expect. Let's smile together.