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Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age. It is a common misconception that adults cannot receive orthodontic treatment like children and teens. Adult orthodontics is becoming more popular today and now it's easier than ever to get started. 

Comfortable, Effective Treatment 

Advances in orthodontic technology have made treatment more comfortable and precise than ever. Modern braces and clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are customized to your exact specifications as outlined by Dr. Jeff Loveless. Combined with our (goop-free!) 3D scanner, you can expect better results, in shorter times, and a more comfortable experience from start to finish. 

Cost-Effective Options

Whether you’re looking for small cosmetic enhancements or comprehensive treatment to improve the health and function of your bite, we offer several treatment tiers. Based on your goals and needs we will match you with the most cost effective treatment tier. 

The Benefits

There are many benefits to orthodontic treatment for adults! Here are some to name a few:

• A confident smile: There is nothing like wanting to show off your smile. Misaligned teeth cause many adults to feel self conscious about their smile
• Healthier gums: Food is more likely to get trapped and cause plaque buildup, which is harder to brush and appropriately floss, increasing the chances of  gum disease (periodontal disease). Crowded teeth can cause redness and swelling of the gums.
• Stronger teeth: Teeth are constantly put under pressure. Crooked teeth can receive more wear and tear and a misaligned bite can mean uneven force on your jaw. Trapped food in misaligned teeth can cause tooth decay.
• Overall Improvement of health: A misaligned bite, worn or missing teeth can make it more difficult to fully chew food, causing gastrointestinal problems. Inflammation of the gums has been linked to heart disease and diabetes.

Curious about learning more? Click below or call us to schedule a  complimentary consultation:

Click below or call us at (507) 451-5993 to schedule a complimentary consultation. We can’t wait to meet you!

When it comes to orthodontic care, finding the perfect blend of professional expertise and a warm, welcoming environment can be challenging. Prairie Ridge Orthodontics offers exactly that—exceptional care combined with a down-to-earth approach. With a commitment to community, Prairie Ridge Orthodontics stands out as a top choice for families in the Owatonna and Zumbrota areas.

Faster Treatment Times

One of the key benefits of choosing Prairie Ridge Orthodontics is our commitment to efficient treatment. Our advanced techniques and state-of-the-art technology ensure that treatment times are faster than the national average. This means you can achieve your perfect smile quicker and with fewer visits, all while maintaining the highest standards of care.

Certified Invisalign Provider

For those seeking a more discreet option for teeth straightening, Prairie Ridge Orthodontics is a certified Invisalign provider. Invisalign offers a series of clear, removable aligners that are custom-made to fit your teeth. These aligners are not only virtually invisible but also comfortable and convenient, allowing you to achieve a beautiful smile without the need for traditional braces. Teens and adults may be treated with Invisalign and we’re happy to explore this option with you!

A Down-to-Earth Experience

At Prairie Ridge Orthodontics, the focus is not just on providing excellent orthodontic treatment but also on creating a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. From the moment you walk through the door, you'll feel at ease. The team is dedicated to making your experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. They take the time to get to know you and your family, ensuring that each visit is a positive experience.

Supporting the Local Community

Dr. Jeff Loveless' commitment to the local community goes beyond his work at the practice. He is actively involved in local events and initiatives, supporting various causes and organizations. This dedication to giving back is a testament to his belief in the importance of community and the role that local businesses play in supporting it.

Choose Prairie Ridge Orthodontics!

Choosing an orthodontist is a significant, personal decision, and Prairie Ridge Orthodontics makes it easy by offering exceptional care in a friendly, down-to-earth environment. With faster treatment times, cutting-edge Invisalign options, and a deep commitment to the local community, Dr. Jeff Loveless and his team are dedicated to helping you achieve the smile you've always wanted.

Experience the difference at Prairie Ridge Orthodontics, where a beautiful smile is just the beginning. Schedule your free consultation today and join the many satisfied patients who have found their perfect smiles with the help of Dr. Jeff Loveless and his dedicated team.

Click below or call us at (507) 451-5993 to schedule a complimentary consultation. We can’t wait to meet you!

If you've recently attended a playdate or a school event and noticed that your friend's child is proudly sporting a set of braces, you might be wondering why your little one hasn't hopped on the orthodontic train just yet. Fear not! There's a method to the orthodontic madness, and today, we're diving into the world of early orthodontic treatment.

So, why might your friend's child be rocking braces while yours is still brace-free? The concept of two phases of orthodontic treatment might hold the key. In some cases, it's beneficial to start with early intervention, addressing specific issues when a child is around 7 years old. This helps in cases where guidance is required for the growth and development of the jaw and facial structures. 

A second phase of treatment may be necessary at a later age, once all the permanent teeth have erupted. The goal is to treat at specific times to reduce the need for more complicated treatments, including extractions or surgeries to uncover impacted teeth. The good news is that, for most kids, two-phase treatment will not be needed. Dr. Loveless and his team take a very conservative approach, understanding that every smile is unique, and not all little teeth need an early tune-up. Instead, they opt for a wait-and-watch approach, intervening only when necessary. It's all about giving your child the right treatment at the right time.

Now, you might be curious about those magical-sounding devices called palatal expanders that typically accompany early treatment. These nifty contraptions work wonders on young children because their growing bones are more malleable. If your child needs an expander, it is likely to be recommended during the early orthodontic phase. These devices gently widen the upper jaw, creating more space for teeth to come in properly and preventing future crowding issues.

The key takeaway here is that every child's orthodontic journey is unique, and there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Dr. Jeff Loveless and his team at Prairie Ridge Orthodontics understand the importance of personalized care and take pride in offering conservative approaches that prioritize your child's long-term dental health.

So, if you’re wondering why your friend's child has braces and yours doesn't, don't fret. Embrace the uniqueness of your child's smile, and trust that Dr. Loveless has their best interests at heart. When the time is right, we will guide your little one toward a radiant, confident smile – no rush, just the right touch of care. 

By the way, a common orthodontic misconception is that you need a referral from your dentist to bring your child in for an evaluation. We will gladly schedule your complimentary consultation at any time, and no referral is necessary. We believe everyone benefits from an initial visit at age 7, if for no other reason than the "peace of mind" regarding your child's smile.

Here's to happy smiles, unique journeys, and the expert hands of Dr. Jeff Loveless and his team at Prairie Ridge Orthodontics 

Click below or call us at (507) 451-5993 to schedule a complimentary consultation. We can’t wait to meet you!

One of the questions we get asked the most from parents and patients is: “which is better: Braces or Invisalign?”

It’s a hard question to answer because so much depends on each patient and their specific needs. That’s why at Prairie Ridge Orthodontics we prioritize spending time with you and listening to your needs and goals. That’s what helps us land on the best possible treatment plan for each unique patient who comes to see us for orthodontics.

Let’s talk about some of the different treatment options that we offer at Prairie Ridge Orthodontics and the differences between them. Traditional metal or clear braces are the most commonly recognized and can be a great choice. There’s minimal involvement from the patient’s perspective except for avoiding foods that can damage brackets and wires, and brushing really well is a top priority. Braces are also great for patients who simply aren’t going to wear aligners for 22 hours a day. And that’s okay! You’ll come to me every 6-8 weeks for adjustments and we’ll be on our way to a straighter smile in no time.

On the other hand, clear aligners are an excellent alternative for patients that are good at keeping to a schedule and the list of foods to avoid while in treatment is much smaller.

If our doctor feels that one would be a better option for any reason, we’ll let you know why and we’ll talk through everything in detail together. In most cases both treatment options are efficient and effective at giving your child their ideal smile, and making parents smile along the way.

Click below or call us at (507) 451-5993 to schedule a complimentary consultation. We can’t wait to meet you!