Braces in Richmond, VA: Orthodontic Care for Kids, Teens, and Adults

Looking for braces or an orthodontist in Richmond, VA? At Richmond Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, our experienced orthodontists have been helping children, teens, and adults across the Greater Richmond area achieve straighter, healthier smiles for over 100 years.

As a bi-specialty practice offering both pediatric dentistry and orthodontics under one roof, we make it easy for your whole family to get the care they need — from your child’s very first dental visit all the way through braces and beyond.

With five convenient locations in Short Pump, West End, Mechanicsville, Midlothian, and Richmond, expert orthodontic care is always close to home.

What You’ll Find on This Page

Whether you’re just starting to research braces or you’re ready to book a consultation, this page has you covered. Here’s what we’ll walk you through:

• Why Richmond families choose RPDO — What makes a bi-specialty practice different (and better) for your family
• Why choose a local orthodontist — The real difference between a locally owned practice and a corporate chain
• Types of braces we offer — A side-by-side comparison of metal and ceramic braces so you can see which fits your needs
• Braces vs. clear aligners — How to decide which orthodontic treatment is right for your case
• Braces by age — What to know whether you’re considering braces for a child, a teen, or yourself
• What to expect — A step-by-step look at the braces process from consultation to braces-off day
• Cost and payment options — Typical pricing in Richmond, plus how we make braces affordable with flexible plans
• FAQs — Answers to the questions we hear most from parents and patients across the Richmond area

Why Families Across Richmond Choose RPDO for Braces

When it comes to braces for your child, teen, or yourself, you want an orthodontic team that combines deep expertise with a genuinely welcoming environment. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Richmond Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics.

Our orthodontists create personalized treatment plans for every patient — whether your seven-year-old needs an early orthodontic evaluation, your teenager is ready for braces, or you’re an adult who’s finally decided it’s time to invest in the smile you’ve always wanted.

Because we’re also a pediatric dental practice, our orthodontists work side by side with our pediatric dentists to coordinate your child’s care from the start.

That means no bouncing between separate offices, no gaps in communication, and a seamless transition when it’s time for orthodontic treatment. It’s one of the biggest reasons Richmond-area families trust us — and one of the things that sets us apart from every other orthodontist in the area.

With a 4.8-star rating across nearly 2,000 Google reviews and recognition from the Richmond Times-Dispatch, Style Weekly, Virginia Living, and Richmond Magazine, RPDO is the most trusted name in pediatric dentistry and orthodontics across the Greater Richmond area.

What makes RPDO different:

• Bi-specialty practice — Pediatric dentistry and orthodontics in the same office, so your child’s dental and orthodontic teams already know each other
• 100+ years serving Richmond families — Deep roots and long-standing trust in the community
• Privately owned, not corporate — Real relationships and personal attention at every visit
• Five locations across the metro —Short Pump, West End, Mechanicsville, Midlothian, and Richmond
• Award-winning care — Consistently voted among Richmond’s best by local readers and publications

Why Choose a Local Richmond Orthodontist?

Not all orthodontic practices are the same. In recent years, corporate dental chains and direct-to-consumer aligner companies have expanded into the Richmond market — but there’s a real difference between a locally owned orthodontic office and a corporate operation.

At RPDO, your orthodontist isn’t rotating between cities or following a corporate playbook. Dr. Bibona, Dr. Cook, and our entire team live and work right here in the Richmond area. They know the community, they’ve built relationships with local pediatricians and family dentists, and they’re invested in your family’s care for the long term.

When you call our office, you’ll talk to someone who knows your name — not an out-of-town call center. When your child needs an emergency bracket repair before a school event, we’ll get them in quickly because that’s what neighbors do. And because we’ve been serving Henrico, Chesterfield, and Hanover county families for over a century, our reputation is everything to us.

That’s the difference between a local Richmond orthodontist and a corporate chain — and it’s a difference your family will feel at every visit.

Types of Braces We Offer in Richmond, VA

At RPDO, we offer two proven types of braces to fit your lifestyle, preferences, and treatment goals. Both options are available at our orthodontic locations in Short Pump, Mechanicsville, Midlothian, and Richmond.

Traditional Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces remain one of the most effective and reliable ways to straighten teeth and correct bite issues. Today’s metal braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more efficient than ever before, thanks to advances in high-grade stainless steel brackets and precision archwires.

At RPDO, we use digital scanning and 3D imaging to plan your treatment with precision — meaning more accurate bracket placement, fewer adjustments, and a smoother overall experience.

For kids and teens, metal braces can also be a lot of fun. Our patients love choosing from a wide range of colored elastic bands at each adjustment visit — a small detail that lets them express their personality while working toward a beautifully aligned smile.

Metal braces are an excellent choice for correcting crowded teeth, gaps, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites. They work well for patients of all ages, from children to adults.

Ceramic Braces

Prefer a more discreet option? Ceramic braces offer the same proven effectiveness as traditional metal braces with a subtler appearance.

Made from clear or tooth-colored materials, ceramic brackets blend naturally with your teeth. That makes them a popular choice among teens and adults seeking orthodontic treatment in the Richmond area.

Ceramic braces treat the same range of alignment and bite issues as metal braces, so you don’t have to sacrifice results for aesthetics. They’re an ideal fit for professionals, college students at VCU or the University of Richmond, and older teens who want effective care without drawing attention to their braces.

Not sure which type is right for you or your child? Our orthodontists will walk you through every option during your complimentary consultation.

We also offer clear aligners for patients who prefer a removable alternative.

Braces vs. Clear Aligners: Which Is Right for You?

One of the most common questions we hear at our Richmond orthodontic offices is: “Should I get braces or clear aligners?” Both are effective orthodontic treatments, but they work differently and suit different needs.

Braces use fixed brackets and wires to move teeth with continuous, precise pressure. They’re ideal for complex cases — significant crowding, severe bite problems, rotated teeth, and jaw alignment issues. Because they’re fixed in place, braces work around the clock without relying on patient compliance. That makes them an especially strong choice for kids and teens.

Clear aligners use a series of removable, nearly invisible trays to gradually shift teeth. They’re a popular option for teens and adults with mild to moderate alignment concerns who value flexibility and aesthetics. Aligners can be removed for eating, brushing, and special occasions — but they require discipline to wear 20–22 hours per day to stay on track.

At RPDO, we offer both braces and clear aligners at our orthodontic locations across Short Pump, Mechanicsville, Midlothian, and Richmond. Our orthodontists will recommend the best approach based on your specific case — not a one-size-fits-all answer.

The best way to find out which option is right for you? A complimentary orthodontic consultation.

Braces for Every Age: Kids, Teens, and Adults

Braces for Kids in Richmond

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. At that age, your child has a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth, which gives our orthodontists a clear picture of how the teeth, jaw, and bite are developing.

Not every child will need braces at age seven. But early evaluation allows us to identify potential issues like crowding, crossbites, or jaw alignment problems before they become more complex.

When early orthodontic treatment (Phase 1) is recommended, it can guide jaw growth, create space for incoming permanent teeth, and reduce the need for more extensive treatment later.

Because RPDO is also a pediatric dental practice, many of our orthodontic patients have been coming to us since their very first tooth. Our pediatric dentists — including Dr. Dahlke, Dr. Chopra, Dr. Eddleton, Dr. Yi, Dr. Jayaraman, and Dr. Thornton — monitor your child’s dental development at every checkup.

When the time is right, they coordinate directly with our orthodontists for a smooth transition into braces. It’s truly care that grows with your child — from infancy through adolescence.

Whether your child plays on a local rec league team, swims at the Midlothian YMCA, or is active in scouting or dance, our team understands busy family schedules. We’ll work with you to find appointment times that keep your child on track without disrupting their activities.

We also provide dental care for children with special needs, including sedation options and compassionate behavior management techniques to make every visit as comfortable as possible.

Braces for Teens in Richmond

The teenage years are the most common time for braces, and for good reason. Most permanent teeth have erupted, making it the ideal window for comprehensive orthodontic treatment.

Whether your teen is dealing with crowded teeth, gaps, an overbite, an underbite, or general misalignment, braces can address it all — typically in one to two years depending on the complexity of the case.

We proudly serve students from high schools across the Richmond metro, including Deep Run, Godwin, Glen Allen, Atlee, Midlothian, Monacan, Mechanicsville, and Hanover. Many of our teen patients start their braces journey right before or during high school, timing treatment so they’re showing off a brand-new smile by graduation.

We know that confidence matters during the teen years, so we make wearing braces a positive experience. Our patients love personalizing their look with colorful elastic bands, and our team keeps the energy fun and encouraging at every adjustment appointment.

For teens who prefer a less noticeable option, ceramic braces or clear aligners may be a great fit.

Throughout treatment, our orthodontists invest real time in educating teens on how to care for their braces — from which foods to avoid, to proper brushing and flossing techniques, to what to do if a bracket comes loose.

We don’t just straighten teeth. We set your teen up for long-term success.

Braces for Adults in Richmond

It’s never too late to get the smile you’ve always wanted. One in four orthodontic patients today is an adult, and our adult orthodontics program is designed to fit the lifestyles and priorities of grown-up patients across the Greater Richmond area.

Whether you’ve been thinking about braces for years or you’re just starting to explore your options, our orthodontists will create a treatment plan tailored to your goals.

Adults can choose from traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, or clear aligners — and we’ll help you find the option that fits your professional life, budget, and timeline.

Beyond aesthetics, adult braces offer real health benefits. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, which reduces your risk of cavities and gum disease.

Correcting bite issues can also relieve jaw pain, headaches, and uneven wear on your tooth enamel.

Our orthodontic offices in Short Pump, Mechanicsville, Midlothian, and Richmond (Patterson Ave) all welcome adult patients.

Young professionals in the Fan, parents in Henrico County, students or staff at VCU and the University of Richmond — we treat adults from every corner of the RVA metro.

What to Expect When You Get Braces at RPDO

Wondering what the braces process actually looks like? Here’s a step-by-step overview of your journey with us.

Your Complimentary Consultation

Everything starts with a free orthodontic consultation at one of our Richmond-area offices.

During this visit, your orthodontist —Dr. Bibona, Dr. Cook, or another member of our orthodontic team — will examine your teeth, bite, and jaw relationship using advanced digital X-rays and 3D imaging technology. They’ll discuss your goals and concerns in detail.

You’ll leave with a clear understanding of your treatment options, estimated timeline, and cost — no surprises.

You can even start from home with a virtual smile assessment.

Your Custom Treatment Plan

Every patient’s smile is different, which is why we never take a one-size-fits-all approach.

Your orthodontist — whether it’s Dr. Bibona, Dr. Cook, or another member of our team — will design a personalized treatment plan based on your specific orthodontic needs, whether that involves traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, or a combination approach.

Braces Placement Day

Getting your braces placed is a straightforward process that typically takes about an hour.

Our team will walk you through everything — how your braces work, how to care for them, which foods to avoid, and how to brush and floss effectively.

You’ll feel confident and prepared from day one.

Regular Adjustment Visits

Throughout your treatment, you’ll visit our office on a regular schedule (typically every four to eight weeks) so your orthodontist can adjust your braces and monitor your progress.

These appointments are usually quick and easy, and our team is always available to answer questions between visits.

Braces Removal and Retention

When your teeth have reached their ideal positions, it’s time for the exciting moment — braces off!

After removal, you’ll wear a retainer to keep your teeth in place and protect your results. Our team will guide you through the retention phase to make sure your beautiful new smile lasts a lifetime.

Want to know more? Visit our orthodontic FAQs page for answers to common questions, or check out our blog posts about caring for braces.

What Braces Can Correct

Braces are one of the most versatile orthodontic treatments available. Our Richmond orthodontists use braces to treat a wide range of alignment and bite concerns, including:

Alignment issues: Crooked teeth, crowded teeth, gaps and spacing between teeth, and rotated or tilted teeth.

Bite problems: Overbite (upper teeth extend too far over the lower teeth), underbite (lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth), crossbite (upper and lower teeth don’t align properly from side to side), and open bite (upper and lower teeth don’t meet when the mouth is closed).

Jaw alignment concerns: Uneven jaw growth, asymmetry, and functional issues that affect chewing, speaking, or jaw comfort.

If you’re not sure whether braces are the right solution, our orthodontists can evaluate your situation during a complimentary consultation and recommend the best path forward.

The Benefits of Braces Beyond a Straighter Smile

Braces do more than just improve the way your smile looks — they deliver lasting benefits for your oral health and overall quality of life.

Better oral health. Straighter teeth are easier to brush and floss effectively, which means less plaque buildup, fewer cavities, and a lower risk of gum disease. For kids, this builds healthy habits that carry into adulthood. Our pediatric dental team reinforces these habits at every cleaning and checkup.

Improved bite function. Correcting bite issues helps you chew food more efficiently, reduces abnormal wear on tooth enamel, and can relieve jaw pain and TMJ discomfort.

Greater confidence. A smile you’re proud of changes how you show up in the world — whether it’s a child gaining confidence at school in Henrico County, a teen at Midlothian High smiling freely in photos, or an adult finally feeling great about their appearance in professional settings.

Prevention of future dental problems. Addressing alignment and bite issues now can prevent more serious (and costly) dental work down the road, including uneven tooth wear, enamel damage, and recurring jaw issues.

Speech improvement. Misaligned teeth and bite problems can affect pronunciation and clarity. Braces can help improve speech, particularly in children whose teeth are still developing.

With a 4.8-star rating across nearly 2,000 reviews, it’s easy to see why Richmond families keep coming back — and keep referring their friends.

Braces Locations Across the Richmond Metro Area

We offer orthodontic care, including braces, at four locations throughout the Greater Richmond area — and pediatric dental care at all five offices. No matter where you live — in Henrico County, Chesterfield County, or Hanover County — there’s an RPDO office near you.

Short Pump Office (Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics)

12270 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23233
Monday: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 7:30 AM – 1:00 PM 

Conveniently located near Short Pump Town Center and easily accessible from I-64, Glen Allen, and Tuckahoe. 

Visit Our Short Pump Office

West End Office (Pediatric Dentistry)

2560 Gaskins Rd, Richmond, VA 23238
Monday–Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM 

Our West End office on Gaskins Road provides pediatric dental care for your child. Many families start here with their pediatric dentist and then transition to one of our nearby orthodontic locations — like Short Pump or Richmond — when it’s time for braces. Same team, same records, seamless coordination. 

Visit Our West End Office

Mechanicsville Office (Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics)

7521 Right Flank Rd #110, Mechanicsville, VA 23116
Monday–Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM 

Just off I-295 on Right Flank Road, serving families throughout Hanover County and the Mechanicsville area. 

Visit Our Mechanicsville Office

Midlothian Office (Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics)

13901 Coalfield Commons Pl, Suite 101, Midlothian, VA 23114
Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM 

Located at Coalfield Commons across from the Midlothian Family YMCA, serving Chesterfield County, Bon Air, and Midlothian families.

Visit Our Midlothian Office

Richmond Office (Orthodontics Only)

8503 Patterson Ave, Richmond, VA 23229
Monday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Situated on Patterson Avenue, serving families in the West End, near the University of Richmond, and throughout central Richmond.

Visit Our Richmond Office

Braces Cost and Payment Options in Richmond, VA

We believe every family deserves access to high-quality orthodontic care, which is why we offer flexible financing options designed to make braces affordable.

The cost of braces in the Richmond area typically ranges from $3,000 to $7,000, depending on the type of braces, complexity of treatment, and length of treatment. Families in Short Pump, Midlothian, Mechanicsville, and across the metro appreciate that we’re transparent about pricing from the very first visit.

So what determines where you’ll fall in that range? The biggest factors include the complexity of your alignment or bite issues, the type of braces you choose (metal braces are generally the most affordable, while ceramic braces cost slightly more due to materials), and the estimated length of treatment. If your child needs early orthodontic treatment (Phase 1) before comprehensive braces, that’s a separate phase with its own cost. Your insurance coverage and orthodontic benefits also play a significant role — many plans cover a portion of braces, and our team will help you maximize every dollar.

That’s exactly why we offer a complimentary consultation — so you get a personalized cost breakdown specific to your treatment plan before you commit. No surprises, no pressure.

How we make braces affordable for Richmond families:

• Complimentary orthodontic consultations — No cost and no obligation to get started
• Flexible monthly payment plans — Spread the cost of treatment over time with interest-free options
• Insurance accepted — We work with most major dental insurance plans to maximize your benefits (view our insurance information)
• FSA and HSA eligible — Use your pre-tax health spending accounts toward braces

Have questions about cost? Our team is happy to walk you through your options. Contact us or request an appointment to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions About Braces in Richmond, VA

What age should my child first see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. By this age, your child has a mix of baby and permanent teeth, which allows our orthodontists to identify potential issues with jaw growth, crowding, or bite alignment early.

At RPDO, many of our patients already see our pediatric dentists for routine care, so the transition to orthodontic evaluation happens naturally as part of their ongoing dental health.

How long does braces treatment typically take?

Most braces treatments take between 12 and 24 months, depending on the complexity of the case and the patient’s age.

Some simpler cases may be completed in under a year, while more complex bite corrections may require a longer timeline. Your orthodontist will give you a personalized estimate during your free consultation.

Do braces hurt?

Getting braces placed doesn’t hurt, though you may experience some soreness or pressure for a few days afterward as your teeth begin to adjust.

This is completely normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief and soft foods. Most patients report that any discomfort fades quickly, and each subsequent adjustment visit is easier than the last.

How much do braces cost in Richmond, VA?

Braces in the Greater Richmond area typically range from $3,000 to $7,000, depending on the type of braces and the complexity of treatment.

At RPDO, we offer complimentary consultations, flexible payment plans, and accept most major dental insurance plans to help make treatment accessible for every family.

Can adults get braces?

Absolutely. One in four orthodontic patients is an adult, and our adult orthodontics program welcomes patients of all ages.

Whether you choose traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, or clear aligners, it’s never too late to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Adults throughout the Richmond metro — from young professionals to parents — are getting braces at RPDO every day.

What’s the difference between metal braces and ceramic braces?

Both types of braces use brackets and wires to move teeth into proper alignment and correct bite issues.

The main difference is appearance: metal braces use stainless steel brackets, while ceramic braces use clear or tooth-colored brackets that blend with your teeth for a more discreet look.

Both are equally effective, and our orthodontists will help you choose the best option based on your treatment needs and preferences.

What’s the difference between braces and clear aligners?

Braces use fixed brackets and wires to gradually move teeth, while clear aligners use a series of removable, nearly invisible trays.

Both are effective treatment options, and the best choice depends on your orthodontic needs, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Our orthodontists will discuss both options with you during your consultation and recommend the approach that will deliver the best results for your specific case.

How do I care for my teeth while wearing braces?

Proper oral hygiene is essential during braces treatment. Brush after every meal, floss daily using a floss threader or orthodontic flosser, and avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy foods that can damage brackets.

Our team provides detailed guidance on cleaning teeth with braces and will check in at every adjustment visit to make sure your oral health stays on track.

For our younger patients, our pediatric dental team reinforces good brushing and flossing habits at every cleaning.

Start Your Braces Journey in Richmond, VA Today

Whether you’re exploring braces for your child, your teenager, or yourself, the team at Richmond Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics is here to guide you every step of the way.

With over 100 years of experience serving Richmond-area families, five convenient locations across Henrico, Chesterfield, and Hanover counties, and a commitment to personalized care that you won’t find at a corporate chain — RPDO is the orthodontic home your family deserves.

Here’s how to get started:

Step 1: Request your complimentary consultation online — it takes less than a minute to fill out our short form.

Step 2: Our team will call you, usually within one business day, to confirm your appointment at the location most convenient for you.

Step 3: Meet with one of our orthodontists, get a personalized treatment plan, and see exactly what your new smile will look like — all at no cost and no obligation.

Not ready to come in yet? Try a virtual smile assessment from home to get a head start.

Proudly serving families in Short Pump, West End, Mechanicsville, Midlothian, Richmond, Glen Allen, Bon Air, Tuckahoe, and communities throughout the Greater Richmond metro area and RVA.