Orthodontics in Hanover, PA
What Is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a dental specialty focused on straightening teeth and correcting jaw alignment to improve both function and appearance. Treatment uses braces, clear aligners, or retainers to move teeth into healthier positions, fix bite issues, and create a balanced smile that works well and looks great for years to come.
At Andrew Pedersen Orthodontics, we welcome Hanover, PA patients of all ages, and we help with crowding, gaps, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. Dr. Pedersen uses digital scans instead of messy impressions to create your custom treatment plan.
If you're considering treatment for yourself or your child, orthodontic care does more than create a beautiful smile. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, which lowers your risk for cavities and gum disease. A balanced bite also improves chewing and speech while preventing uneven tooth wear over time.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment in Hanover, PA
Orthodontic treatment improves how your smile looks and how your mouth functions. Straight teeth are easier to clean, lowering your risk for cavities and gum disease. A balanced bite reduces strain on your jaw, prevents uneven wear, and makes chewing and speaking easier. The result is better oral health, more comfort, and renewed confidence in your smile.
Confidence and appearance
A straight smile changes how you feel about yourself. Many Hanover patients tell us they stop hiding their teeth in photos and feel more at ease in work meetings and social settings once treatment is complete.
Better oral health
Crooked or crowded teeth trap food and make brushing difficult. Straight teeth are easier to keep clean, reducing your risk of decay and gum problems.
Improved bite function
When your teeth meet correctly, you chew more efficiently. A balanced bite also reduces strain on your jaw joints, which can help prevent TMJ discomfort.
Long-term protection
Misaligned teeth wear unevenly over years of use. Correcting your bite now protects your teeth from chips, cracks, and early wear.
| Benefit | How Orthodontics Helps |
|---|---|
| Smile aesthetics | Closes gaps, corrects crowding |
| Oral hygiene | Makes brushing and flossing more effective |
| Bite function | Aligns upper and lower teeth for proper chewing |
| Jaw comfort | Reduces strain that can cause headaches or TMJ issues |
| Tooth longevity | Prevents uneven wear and damage |
Clear aligners offer a near-invisible option for teens and adults who want to straighten their teeth discreetly. Dr. Pedersen can help you decide which approach fits your lifestyle.
The Orthodontic Treatment Process
Here's how treatment works at our office, step by step, at Andrew Pedersen Orthodontics.
- Free consultation: Your first visit includes a thorough exam and digital scans. Dr. Pedersen evaluates your teeth, bite, and jaw alignment to understand exactly what needs correction.
- Custom treatment plan: Based on your exam, Dr. Pedersen explains your options. You'll receive a clear timeline and learn the differences between metal braces, clear braces, and clear aligners.
- Appliance placement or aligner delivery: If you choose braces, Dr. Pedersen bonds the brackets during a visit that typically takes about an hour. For clear aligners, you'll receive your first sets with instructions for wear and care.
- Progress visits: You'll return every six to eight weeks so Dr. Pedersen can monitor your progress and make adjustments. These visits are quick but essential for keeping treatment on track.
- Retainer phase: Once your teeth reach their final positions, retainers maintain your results. Full-time wear for about six months transitions to nighttime wear indefinitely.
Virtual consultations are available for Hanover, PA families who want to start from home. You can also schedule virtual check-ins during treatment for added convenience.
Who Is a Candidate for Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic candidates include children age 7 and up, teens, and adults dealing with crowding, gaps, overbites, underbites, or crossbites. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first evaluation by age 7, when Dr. Pedersen can spot developing concerns early. Most patients qualify for treatment as long as their teeth and gums are healthy at the start.
Children should first see an orthodontist by age 7. At this age, enough permanent teeth have come in for Dr. Pedersen to identify developing issues like crossbites, crowding, or jaw growth problems. Early evaluation doesn't always mean early treatment, but it gives your orthodontist the chance to monitor growth and step in at the right time.
Children (ages 7-11)
Early screening catches issues when they're easier to correct. Some children benefit from Phase 1 treatment to guide jaw development. Learn more about children's treatment on our orthodontics for children page.
Teens (ages 12-18)
This is the most common time for braces or clear aligners. Most permanent teeth have settled into place, making full treatment effective. You can review teen treatment options on our orthodontics for teens page.
Adults
It's never too late to smile with confidence. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, roughly 1 in 4 orthodontic patients today is an adult, and options like clear aligners make it easier to fit treatment into a working life. You can also learn more on our orthodontics for adults page.
Common issues Dr. Pedersen treats include:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbite (upper teeth extend too far over lower teeth)
- Underbite (lower teeth sit in front of upper teeth)
- Crossbite (some upper teeth sit inside lower teeth)
Candidates should have healthy teeth and gums before starting treatment. If you need dental work first, the team at Andrew Pedersen Orthodontics coordinates with your dentist to make sure you're ready.
Why Hanover Families Choose Andrew Pedersen Orthodontics
Dr. Andrew Pedersen is a Board-certified Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, a credential earned by only a small percentage of practicing orthodontists nationally. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from dental school and has been making patients smile for over three decades.
What you'll find here
- Personal treatment planning: Dr. Pedersen takes time to understand your goals and creates a plan built around your needs.
- Full range of options: We offer metal braces, clear braces, clear aligners, and retainers so you can choose what works best for your lifestyle.
- Advanced technology: Digital scans replace messy impressions, making your visits more comfortable and your treatment more precise.
- Flexible scheduling: Virtual consultations and virtual visits work for busy families and working adults.
- Free consultations: Your first visit includes a complete exam and treatment recommendations at no cost.
- Trusted experience: As a member of the American Dental Association and American Association of Orthodontists, Dr. Pedersen stays current with the latest techniques and research.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics in Hanover, PA
How much do braces or clear aligners cost in Hanover, PA?
Treatment costs vary based on the complexity of your case and the type of appliance you choose. During your free consultation, you'll receive a clear cost estimate and learn about flexible payment options. We work with most insurance plans and offer financing to make treatment accessible.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Most patients wear braces or clear aligners for 12 to 24 months, though some cases finish sooner and others take longer. Dr. Pedersen gives you a realistic timeline during your consultation based on your specific needs.
At what age should my child see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This early check allows Dr. Pedersen to spot developing issues and recommend the best timing for treatment.
Does insurance cover orthodontic treatment?
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits, especially for children. Our team at Andrew Pedersen Orthodontics verifies your coverage and helps you understand what your plan will pay before you commit to treatment. You can also review our insurance and financing information before your visit.
What's the difference between clear aligners and clear braces?
Clear aligners are removable trays you switch out every one to two weeks. Clear braces are brackets bonded to your teeth, made from ceramic material that blends with your tooth color. Both options are less noticeable than metal braces, but they work differently. Dr. Pedersen can explain which option suits your case.
Are virtual consultations really effective?
Yes. Virtual consultations let Dr. Pedersen review photos and information you provide to give initial recommendations. They're a convenient first step, especially for busy schedules. You'll still need an in-person visit for digital scans and appliance placement, but virtual options reduce the number of trips to our office.
Schedule Your Free Consultation in Hanover, PA
Ready to explore your options? Book a free consult with Dr. Pedersen at Andrew Pedersen Orthodontics. You'll receive a complete exam, digital scans, and a custom treatment plan with clear pricing.
No referral is needed, and there's no obligation to start treatment. We can't wait to get to know you!
Call us at (717) 764-3854 or request your free consult online. Our offices in York and New Freedom welcome patients from Hanover and throughout York County. What are you waiting for? Your smile transformation starts with one visit.