Braces in Chandler, AZ
Traditional braces in Chandler typically cost $3,000 to $5,500 and remain the most effective orthodontic option for complex alignment and bite correction. At Every Smile Family Dentistry, Dr. Scott Lee provides braces for children, teens, and adults at our Chandler office. Modern braces are significantly smaller, more comfortable, and more efficient than earlier generations. Whether your child has crowding that needs early intervention or you’re an adult who’s finally ready to invest in a straighter smile, braces deliver predictable, lasting results.
Braces work by bonding small brackets to each tooth and connecting them with archwires that apply continuous, controlled pressure. Over the course of treatment, this pressure gradually moves teeth into their ideal positions, correcting crowding, gaps, overbites, underbites, crossbites, open bites, and rotated teeth. For patients who prefer a discreet alternative, we also offer Invisalign clear aligners.
Schedule Your Free Braces Consultation
Your Braces Provider in Chandler
Dr. Scott Lee has placed braces for hundreds of Chandler patients since founding Every Smile in 2013. A cum laude graduate of The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, former United States Marine Corps member and Purple Heart recipient, Dr. Lee completed advanced orthodontic training in bracket placement, wire sequencing, and bite correction beyond his doctoral program. His precise, methodical approach ensures consistent results and efficient treatment timelines. Dr. Lee is an active member of the American Dental Association and the Arizona Dental Association.
Dr. Kelli Hahn supports braces cases that involve restorative or cosmetic components. With over 1,000 hours of advanced training at the Kois Center in Seattle, Dr. Hahn ensures that any crowns, fillings, or cosmetic work needed alongside orthodontic treatment achieves both functional and aesthetic results.
Both doctors work from our Chandler office at 2160 W Chandler Blvd Ste 20. No outside referrals to a separate orthodontist.
Types of Braces We Offer
Traditional Metal Braces
The most affordable and versatile option. Small stainless steel brackets are bonded to the front of each tooth and connected by a metal archwire. Elastic bands (ligatures) hold the wire in place, and patients can choose colored bands to personalize their look. Metal braces handle the widest range of alignment problems including severe crowding, significant bite issues, and rotated teeth that aligners can’t always correct. Treatment typically takes 18 to 24 months. Traditional metal braces in Chandler typically cost $3,000 to $4,500.
Clear Ceramic Braces
The effectiveness of traditional braces with a more discreet appearance. Ceramic brackets are made from tooth-colored or clear materials that blend in with your natural teeth. They work identically to metal braces, applying the same continuous pressure through archwires, but are far less noticeable. Ceramic braces are popular with adults and older teens who want the reliability of braces without the metallic look. Clear ceramic braces typically cost $4,000 to $5,500, slightly more than metal due to the material cost.
Self-Ligating Braces
A modern bracket design that eliminates elastic bands. Self-ligating brackets use a built-in clip mechanism to hold the archwire, which can reduce friction and allow teeth to move more freely. Some patients experience fewer adjustments and shorter appointment times with self-ligating systems. Dr. Lee will recommend this option when it offers a clinical advantage for your specific case.
Who Should Get Braces?
Children (Ages 7 to 12)
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Early evaluation allows Dr. Lee to identify developing alignment problems while the jaw is still growing. Some children benefit from Phase 1 (early intervention) treatment that guides jaw growth and creates space for permanent teeth. Not every child needs early treatment, but catching problems at the right time can reduce the length and complexity of full braces later. Our pediatric dentistry team makes young patients feel comfortable and confident.
Teens
The most common age group for braces treatment. Teen patients benefit from developing jaws that respond well to orthodontic pressure, often making treatment faster and more predictable. Many Chandler teens at Basha High School, Hamilton High School, and Chandler High choose between traditional braces with custom-colored bands and Invisalign Teen for a more discreet option. Dr. Lee will recommend the best approach based on the complexity of your teen’s alignment needs.
Adults
About one in four orthodontic patients today is an adult. Whether you never had braces as a teen, your teeth shifted after earlier treatment, or you’re addressing bite problems that are causing jaw pain or uneven wear, braces work at any age. Many adult patients in Chandler choose clear ceramic braces for a subtler appearance during professional and social interactions.
What to Expect with Braces
Placement Day
Bracket bonding takes about 90 minutes. Dr. Lee cleans and prepares each tooth surface, applies a bonding agent, places the brackets precisely, and threads the initial archwire. The process is painless. Most patients feel mild pressure and soreness for the first 3 to 5 days as their teeth begin to respond to the new forces. Over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods handle this easily.
Monthly Adjustments
You’ll visit our office every 4 to 6 weeks for wire changes and adjustments. These appointments typically take 15 to 30 minutes. Dr. Lee evaluates your progress, replaces or tightens wires, and makes any necessary modifications to keep treatment on track. Mild soreness for a day or two after adjustments is normal.
Caring for Your Braces
Good oral hygiene during braces is essential. Brush after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush or an orthodontic brush designed to clean around brackets. Floss daily using a floss threader or orthodontic flosser. Avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods that can damage brackets or wires, including ice, popcorn kernels, caramel, and hard candy. Regular professional cleanings every six months are especially important during orthodontic treatment to prevent cavities and gum disease.
Braces and Sports
Braces should not limit participation in sports or physical activities. We provide custom mouthguards designed to fit over brackets and protect both the braces and your teeth during contact sports, basketball, soccer, and other activities.
After Braces: Retainers
When braces come off, custom retainers maintain your results. Most patients wear retainers full-time for the first few months, then transition to nighttime-only wear. Retainers are essential. Without them, teeth gradually shift back toward their original positions.
Braces vs. Invisalign
Both options straighten teeth effectively, but they work best for different situations. Braces are the stronger choice for severe crowding, significant bite correction, rotated teeth, and complex cases. Invisalign is ideal for mild to moderate alignment issues where discreet treatment and removability matter most. For a full comparison of all orthodontic options, visit our orthodontics page or schedule a free consultation.
Braces Cost and Financing
We believe cost should never prevent a family from accessing orthodontic care. During your free consultation, Dr. Lee provides a detailed cost breakdown with no hidden fees. Many dental insurance plans cover braces with a lifetime orthodontic maximum of $1,500 to $2,500. Our team verifies your benefits and files all claims on your behalf. For remaining balances, we offer CareCredit financing, interest-free in-office payment plans, and our in-house savings plan. Call (480) 732-7874 or request a consultation online.
Serving Chandler and Surrounding Communities
Our office at 2160 W Chandler Blvd Ste 20 in Chandler, AZ 85224 provides braces for families from Grand Reserve, La Glorieta, Pueblo Santa Fe, Mission Tierra, Rialto Hills, Pecos Ranch, Sun Groves, Ironwood Vistas, Silverton Ranch, Cooper Commons, and surrounding East Valley communities. Having braces and general dentistry under one roof means your cleanings, any fillings needed during treatment, and retention follow-ups all happen with the same team.
Frequently Asked Questions About Braces
How much do braces cost in Chandler, AZ?
Traditional metal braces typically cost $3,000 to $4,500. Clear ceramic braces typically cost $4,000 to $5,500. Many dental insurance plans cover braces with a lifetime orthodontic maximum of $1,500 to $2,500. CareCredit financing and interest-free in-office payment plans are also available.
How long does braces treatment take?
Most braces treatments take 18 to 24 months. Minor cases may finish sooner. Complex cases involving significant bite correction may take longer. Dr. Lee provides a personalized timeline during your free consultation.
Do braces hurt?
Bracket placement is painless. Most patients experience mild soreness for 3 to 5 days after placement and for 1 to 2 days after monthly adjustments. Over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods manage this easily. The discomfort is mild compared to the long-term results.
What foods should I avoid with braces?
Avoid hard foods (ice, nuts, hard candy, popcorn kernels), sticky foods (caramel, taffy, gum), and crunchy foods that can snap wires or pop brackets. Cut apples and carrots into small pieces rather than biting into them directly.
Can adults get braces?
Yes. About one in four orthodontic patients is an adult. Teeth can be moved at any age as long as the gums and bone are healthy. Many Chandler adults choose clear ceramic braces for a subtler appearance.
Should I choose braces or Invisalign?
Braces are the better choice for severe crowding, significant bite problems, and rotated teeth. Invisalign is ideal for mild to moderate alignment issues where discreet, removable treatment is preferred. Dr. Lee will recommend the best option during your free consultation.
Schedule Your Free Braces Consultation
A straighter smile changes everything. Whether you’re exploring braces for your child, your teenager, or yourself, Dr. Scott Lee will evaluate your alignment, explain your options, and create a treatment plan that fits your goals and your budget. The consultation is free and includes a comprehensive examination, digital X-rays, and a clear cost breakdown.
Hundreds of Chandler families have trusted Every Smile with their orthodontic care. We’re ready to help your family too.
Call Every Smile Chandler at (480) 732-7874 to schedule your free braces consultation, or request your appointment online. We’re located at 2160 W Chandler Blvd Ste 20, Chandler, AZ 85224.
