A Little Clarity
Goes A Long Way.

Board certification is a voluntary professional credential beyond orthodontic specialty training. The American Board of Orthodontics assesses knowledge and clinical judgment through examinations and ongoing certification requirements.

Dr. Rachel Hoffman is Board-certified in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. At your visit, she will explain the findings and recommendations so you understand the reasons behind your treatment plan.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. A child usually has a mix of baby and permanent teeth at that stage, allowing an orthodontist to assess the developing bite.

An evaluation does not automatically mean starting braces. Dr. Rachel may recommend monitoring growth or, when appropriate, addressing a specific concern early. Contact us sooner if you or your dentist notice a problem.

Our first consultation is complimentary. The visit includes photographs, X-rays, and an orthodontic exam, followed by a discussion of your options. In some cases, we also take digital 3D scans. You can also ask about insurance and payment plans.

Most new patient consultations take about an hour. We want you to have enough time for the records, exam, and your questions.

Adults can be candidates for orthodontic care. The condition of your teeth, gums, and supporting bone matters more than age alone. Tell us about previous orthodontic treatment, dental work, or current dental concerns.

Dr. Rachel will assess your needs and compare suitable options, which may include metal braces, ceramic braces, Iconix rose-gold brackets, or Angel Aligner™ clear aligners. You will continue to see your general dentist throughout orthodontic treatment.

No referral is needed to see Dr. Rachel Hoffman. We welcome patients referred by their general dentist and those who contact us directly to arrange a complimentary consultation.

Treatment time depends on your needs and the type of treatment. Most orthodontic treatment takes 18–24 months, though the timeline may differ depending on your unique plan. Dr. Rachel will discuss a personalized timeline at your consultation.

Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits, but coverage and lifetime limits vary. We accept most insurance plans and will help you understand your estimated benefits. Flexible payment plans are also available.

We offer early morning and late afternoon appointments. Call our office to discuss current availability and find a time that works for you or your family.

Your first consultation is complimentary. After your exam, Dr. Rachel will explain the recommended treatment, and you’ll receive your treatment plan and fee in writing at that visit.

We accept most insurance providers and offer flexible payment plans. Our team will walk you through what is included, your estimated insurance benefits, and the payment options for your treatment before you decide to begin.

Yes. Our practice offers flexible payment plans. Ask our team about the initial payment, monthly amount, payment period, and any applicable fees or interest for your plan.

Confirm the full payment schedule before starting treatment so you know what to expect.

Braces stay attached to your teeth and require cleaning around the brackets and some food precautions. Clear aligners can be removed for meals and cleaning, but they depend on consistent wear according to the doctor’s instructions.

The right choice also depends on the movements your teeth need. Dr. Rachel will examine your bite and explain suitable options. A less visible appliance is not automatically faster or a better fit.

Invisalign and Angel Aligner™ are different brands of clear aligners. Both use a series of custom, removable trays to gradually move teeth. Our practice uses Angel Aligner™ for clear-aligner treatment, with a personalized plan guided by Dr. Rachel.

Dr. Rachel will explain whether clear aligners are appropriate for your needs, what your wearing routine would be, how progress visits are scheduled, and what your treatment fee includes.

Call our office at 901.625.0202 and describe what happened. A loose bracket, bothersome wire, or lost or damaged appliance may need attention before your next scheduled appointment. Follow any instructions provided by our team or on the office voicemail.

Do not force a painful or distorted aligner or retainer into place. For trouble breathing or swallowing, uncontrolled bleeding, or major facial injury, seek emergency care immediately. A knocked-out permanent tooth or severe swelling also needs urgent dental or medical attention; do not wait for a routine orthodontic visit.

Yes. Regular dental cleanings and checkups remain important during orthodontic treatment. We work with your general dentist to help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Continue your regular dental visits and follow the schedule your dentist recommends.

You can call our office at 901.625.0202. We’ll usually help you schedule your next visit before you leave, and our team can help if you need to change an appointment.

Braces appointments are typically every 6–8 weeks for adjustments and progress checks. Clear aligner visits may be less frequent, often every 8–12 weeks. Dr. Rachel will set a schedule for your particular treatment plan.

Dr. Rachel takes a conservative approach and explores the available options before recommending extractions. If they are needed as part of your treatment plan, she will explain why and coordinate with an oral surgeon.

Yes. You can continue both during treatment. A mouthguard is recommended for contact sports to help protect your teeth and braces. Playing an instrument may take a little adjustment. Ask our team about the right approach for your activities and treatment.

With braces, avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods that could damage your appliances, such as popcorn, hard candies, and chewing gum. Our team will provide specific guidance. Clear aligners are removed for meals, allowing you to eat normally.

Long-term retainer wear helps maintain your results. Dr. Rachel generally recommends retainers for life, with an initial period of full-time wear followed by nighttime wear. Your exact schedule will be personalized, so follow the instructions provided for your care.