Orthodontics
Ready to Explore Your Orthodontic Options at Our Bismarck, ND, Dental Office?
By offering Invisalign at our dental office, we can treat various forms of dental misalignment for patients with all types of unique goals. We're excited to explain why you don't need to see an orthodontist to receive high-end orthodontic treatment with aligners.
At our general dentistry practice, you can explore both orthodontic treatments and cosmetic dentistry treatments to help craft your ideal smile. The variety of procedures we offer lends to a more well-rounded treatment plan versus what you'd find at an orthodontist's office. The treatment option that's right for you will depend on various factors, such as your lifestyle and the complexity of your misalignment.
Ready to experience a more confident smile? Contact our dental office to get started:
(701) 255-4850
Hear From Our Patients
Gary Johnson
2023
Excellent Quality care!
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Beckie Walby
2023
Chantal and Macy took such good care of me today. There is nothing like a pampered cleaning on Valentines Day!!
View On GoogleDiscreet Orthodontics Straighten Your Smile with Invisalign
When you think of orthodontics, you might picture a mouth full of metal and rubber bands. While braces and other forms of traditional orthodontics are certainly effective, they are no longer your only option for straightening your smile. At our dental practice in Bismarck, ND, you can experience discreet, convenient, and comfortable orthodontics with Invisalign clear aligners.
Dr. Heringer is an experienced Invisalign provider who offers multiple forms of the treatment. In addition to classic Invisalign, he also offers Invisalign Express to his North Dakota patients. Plus, he is able to utilize Invisalign SmartForce attachments, which allow the clear aligners to work on more complex cases that used to require braces.
Invisalign vs. Braces
We offer Invisalign to patients from Bismarck, Mandan, and surrounding areas. Both treatments have their pros and cons, so the ultimate treatment decision depends on your individual degree of misalignment, lifestyle factors, and what Dr. Heringer thinks will be the most effective treatment. Here are some of the differences between braces and Invisalign:
| Invisalign | Braces | |
| Appearance | Invisalign clear aligners are a more discreet option, thanks to their clear plastic design. | Braces consist of metal brackets attached to the front of teeth, connected by a thin wire. This design is more obvious than Invisalign. |
| Comfort | Aligners are made from smooth plastic and fit snugly over your teeth. You may experience mild temporary discomfort for a day or two when you switch to new aligner sets in the series. Often this discomfort is limited to an individual tooth or two as each tray focuses on moving certain teeth gradually into position at a time. Minor irritation of the gums and cheeks can occur as you adjust to a new set of aligners. | The brackets and wires of braces can cause initial discomfort as the metal irritates your cheeks and gums. Our dentist will inform you on what to do if a wire becomes loose during the treatment process. It may take time to get used to the feeling of braces in your mouth, but eventually the mouth will adapt. Braces require periodic tightening at our office, which can cause discomfort at times throughout the treatment process. |
| Removability | Invisalign aligners are meant to be taken out for meals, brushing, and flossing. You won't have to make any adjustments to your diet or dental hygiene routine. Kids and teens may have trouble maintaining the responsibility of remembering to put aligners back in after a meal. | Braces are attached to your teeth and can't be removed until your treatment is complete. Because of this, you'll have to avoid certain foods and learn new methods of brushing and flossing. For patients who don't want the extra hassle of removing aligners for every meal, braces can be a nice alternative. |
| Effectiveness | Invisalign is appropriate for mild to moderate cases of dental misalignment. | Braces can be used to correct virtually any degree of dental misalignment. |
The Benefits of Orthodontics
Cosmetic Benefits
The aesthetic benefits of orthodontics are obvious. In less than two years, most orthodontic patients are able to achieve beautifully straightened teeth and a more attractive smile. When you correct the crowding or gaps in your smile, you'll feel more confident, you'll smile more readily, and you'll be perceived as more friendly and approachable.
Healthier Teeth
Many of our patients from Mandan, Bismarck, ND, and surrounding areas who ask about orthodontics don't realize that straightening their teeth will help them take better care of their teeth, but it's true. Straight teeth are easier to clean properly because it's easier for your toothbrush or floss to fit between the teeth. Also, when the teeth are in proper position, they are less prone to damage if you bite into something hard or receive an unexpected blow to the face.
Proper Jaw Function
When your teeth are misaligned, you begin to bite and chew in an improper manner. A misaligned bite (known as "malocclusion") puts strain on your jaw muscles. Over time, this improper motion can lead to TMJ disorder (characterized by clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw), chronic headaches, and other issues. By straightening your teeth with orthodontics, you can correct your misaligned bite and relieve the pressure on your jaw.
Imperfections That Orthodontics Can Address At Our Bismarck Office
Heringer Dentistry can address many of the same alignment concerns that an orthodontist can, providing you with straighter and healthier teeth.
Crooked teeth are more likely to experience tooth decay and gum disease, as they're harder to clean than straight teeth. Orthodontic care can align twisted or rotated teeth.
Teeth that are bunched or that overlap can be corrected with Invisalign at our North Dakota dental practice, refining your smile and making them easier to care for.
Some gaps between teeth can cause speech issues, or even cause other teeth to become overcrowded. Orthodontic treatment from our dentist can close the gap.
Misaligned teeth can cause teeth grinding, which can damage your smile and lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.
Bite disorders such as underbites, overbites, crossbites, and open bites can be addressed with Invisalign, giving you a properly aligned bite.
Delaying Treatment Can Cause Oral Health Issues
Misaligned teeth are more likely to experience cavities and other health concerns. Here's what could happen if you choose to delay orthodontic treatment:
Decay, Gum Disease, and More
Straighter teeth are easier to brush and floss, lowering your risk of cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, and other disorders.
Jaw Alignment
Left untreated, misalignment can put more pressure on your jaw, causing TMJ disorders. Headaches and pain in the neck and shoulders are common symptoms of a TMJ disorder.
Functional Problems
Conditions like overbites and underbites can cause uneven wear and tear on the teeth. Some patients experience difficulty pronouncing specific words. Misaligned teeth can also make chewing more difficult, potentially impacting your overall diet.
Ready to Straighten Your Smile? Contact Us to Get Started
Dr. Heringer is one of the most well-regarded dentists in North Dakota. He is especially skilled in improving the appearance of his patients' smiles through cosmetic dentistry and orthodontics.
If you are interested in orthodontic treatment for yourself or your teenager, contact Heringer Dentistry in Bismarck, ND, today. We can schedule an orthodontic consultation, during which Dr. Heringer can let you know if you are suited for Invisalign or braces.
Call Us: (701) 255-4850
We Have Over 120 5-Star Google Reviews Here's Just a Couple of Them
Secora Schmidt
2022
Super great people that treat you like family and take great care of you every single time! Couldn’t recommend them more.
View on GoogleOrlan Richter
2022
Dr. Heringer and his staff, do an outstanding job. The entire staff possesses compassion and extreme skill. I will never be looking for another dental office, I'm here to stay.
View on GoogleYou're Never Too Old For Orthodontia
When it comes to orthodontic treatment, most people think straightening a smile is only for older children and teenagers. However, adults too can receive orthodontic care. An adult seeking a removable, discreet option should ask Dr. Heringer about the benefits of Invisalign.
Although an orthodontist specializes in addressing severely misaligned teeth, visiting one is not necessary for patients with mild or moderate misalignment. With Invisalign, our dentist can align your teeth for a beautiful new smile.
During a consultation, our dentist can review your oral health and long-term goals, creating a personalized treatment plan that will transform your smile. Contact his Bismarck, ND, office online today to request a consultation or call him at:
"You are in good hands." Our Patient-Focused Care Creates 5-Star Smiles
Melanie Willoughby
Bismarck, ND
2022
Absolutely the most professional, expert, advanced, painless dental care I have ever received-and I definitely am getting a bit “long in the tooth!” As a patient in my 60s, I have been there, done that, and seen it all. My mouth is a veritable “dental museum.” From the giant fillings of the 1960s to the inevitable root canals and crowns from 1985-to present, I have had every type of dental experience and none has been as expert, professional or rewarding as with Dr. Heringer.
View on GoogleErin Donelan
Bismarck, ND
2022
From the minute you walk in the door, you are made to feel welcome. Ashley always greets you as if she has been waiting for you to show up. Chantal is one of the sweetest people I have worked with, and Beckie makes my husband laugh. They are two of the best hygienists around. Lois is positive and informative, ready to answer questions. Savannah and Macy and Amber are dedicated to learning and make you feel like you are in good hands.
View on GoogleAn Invisalign Timeline What You Can Expect at Our Practice
Invisalign treatment is simple, discreet, and effective. While your exact treatment timeline depends on the state of your oral health and the severity of misalignment, below are the general steps each orthodontic patient can expect at our Bismarck, ND, practice.
Invisalign treatment requires patients to wear their clear aligners for about 18-22 hours a day.
Life After Treatment Retainers Maintain Your New Smile
Once your orthodontic treatment is complete, Dr. Heringer will talk to you about the benefits of wearing a retainer. Most patients only have to wear retainers while they sleep. This will prevent your teeth from moving and protect your new smile. Many Invisalign patients are able to use their last set of aligners as retainers.
Take the First Step Toward a Stunning Smile Contact Us to Request Your Consultation
Our practice can help you reach your oral health and aesthetic goals through orthodontic aligner treatment. If you are looking for an even greater aesthetic upgrade, we also offer several cosmetic dentistry treatments to elevate your smile.
During your consultation, Dr. Heringer can discuss your goals and create a customized cosmetic dentistry treatment plan designed to meet them. From teeth whitening and veneers to complete smile makeovers, our expert team can create a picture-perfect smile. You may even find that a cosmetic treatment, like veneers, is more suited to your alignment goals.
It all starts with a visit to our Bismarck, ND, practice. Do you live in Mandan or nearby? Contact us to learn more about our options and request your consultation today.
(701) 255-4850
We Give Bismarck a Reason to Smile More 5-Star Reviews From Happy Patients
Sarah Kramer
2022
After what seemed like a lifetime of searching for my perfect smile, Dr. Heringer gave me just that and then some. After one consultation my husband and I were so impressed we both chose Heringer for all of our dental care. Dr. Heringer and his staff provide a level of care and knowledge unlike anything else... The Heringer team gave me my smile back and I couldn’t be happier! I LOVE my Heringer smile!
View on GoogleDena Kemmet
2022
They say you can tell a lot about a person’s character by how they treat others. Dr. Heringer is so kind and complimentary to his staff, it made me feel good just listening to them interact. Dr. Heringer and his entire staff are highly focused on the patient from the minute you walk into the reception area until you are walking out the door. I’ve never had a more positive experience in a dental chair!
View on GoogleEnhance Your Results with Cosmetic Dentistry
Dr. Heringer has a reputation as one of the most skilled cosmetic dentists in North Dakota, and he can do so much more than simply straighten your teeth. He can combine Invisalign with other cosmetic procedures to design a unique smile makeover just for you. Once your teeth have been straightened, you can improve their appearance with porcelain veneers, dental crowns, or teeth whitening. If you have a gummy smile, Dr. Heringer can use our advanced Waterlase® dental laser to contour your gums and beautifully frame your newly aligned smile. Contact our Bismarck office today to begin your journey towards straighter, healthier teeth.
Orthodontics FAQs
Do I need to see an orthodontist?
Orthodontists are specialists in moving teeth and correcting misaligned bites. However, some dentists, like Dr. Heringer, are just as qualified as orthodontists to oversee Invisalign treatment. If you or your teen have particularly complex malocclusion, then Dr. Heringer may refer you to a local orthodontist. But most likely, our dentist and his team in Bismarck, ND, can handle your case without the help of an orthodontist.
When can my child start orthodontic treatment?
Every child is different. Some kids may be ready for their first orthodontic appointment when they are as young as six years old, while others can wait until their teenage years. Generally speaking, you should make an orthodontic consultation for your child when their permanent teeth start to come in. As a family-friendly practice, Heringer Dentistry is a trusted destination forthe family. We would be happy to take a look at your child's teeth and let you know if it's time to consider orthodontics.
Will I need to wear my retainer forever?
Short answer, yes. Your teeth are constantly moving, and your retainer prevents them from falling back into misalignment. We recommend always wearing a retainer while you sleep to ensure your smile stays straight for life. However, if mild shifting occurs years after treatment, we may be able to address it with veneers or dental bonding.
Will dental insurance cover orthodontics?
Many dental insurance plans will contribute to orthodontic treatment, but every plan and provider is different. Our team serving patients in Mandan and Bismarck, ND, is happy to help you communicate with your insurance company so that we can maximize your benefits and make sure you pay as little out of pocket as possible.
"Every time I have a gone to the Herringer dentist office the staff has been professional and treated me with courtesy. They are professional and good at what they do. But it's more than just that they ask me what music I'd like to listen to while in the exam room. What flavors of polish that I would like. Those are all little items that make my appointment a good experience." Dale Hoerauf, 5-Star Google Review
