Trusted Orthodontist in Cary, NC

Southern Smiles is a trusted orthodontic practice in Cary, NC, helping families across the Triangle straighten teeth, fix bites, and feel great about their smiles. From kids getting their first evaluation to adults finally going for it, we welcome guests of all ages.

What Does an Orthodontist in Cary, NC Do?

An orthodontist in Cary, NC is a dental specialist who diagnoses and treats misaligned teeth and jaws. Beyond dental school, an orthodontist completes two to three years of advanced residency training focused specifically on tooth movement, bite correction, and facial growth. While your general dentist handles cleanings, fillings, and overall oral health, an orthodontist brings specialized expertise to straightening teeth and correcting bite problems.

At Southern Smiles, our smile team provides core treatments including traditional metal braces, clear braces, clear aligners, bite correction, and retainers. We serve families throughout Cary and the surrounding Triangle communities, from Apex and Morrisville to Raleigh and Holly Springs.

Orthodontic treatment isn't just for teenagers anymore. We welcome guests of all ages, from children getting their first evaluation to adults ready to finally achieve the smile they've always wanted. Your family is our family, and we're here to help every member smile with confidence.

Benefits of Choosing a Local Orthodontist in Cary, NC

Selecting a local orthodontist in Cary brings advantages that go far beyond convenience. Here's what you and your family gain:

Benefit	What It Means for You
Better Oral Health	Straight teeth are easier to brush and floss. Crowded teeth hide plaque in spots a toothbrush just can't reach. The result over time? Fewer cavities, healthier gums.
Increased Confidence	Smile bigger in photos. Speak up in meetings. Stop covering your mouth in conversations. Many guests tell us this everyday change is hard to put a price on.
Corrected Bite Function	An improper bite causes more than cosmetic concerns. Misaligned jaws can lead to uneven tooth wear, jaw discomfort, headaches, and difficulty chewing. Orthodontic treatment addresses these issues at their source.
Convenient Local Care	No long drives. Families from Apex, Morrisville, and nearby neighborhoods can pop in for adjustments without disrupting their whole day. As an orthodontist serving Apex, NC families too, we keep things simple.
Personalized Treatment Plans	Unlike mail-order aligner companies, working with a local orthodontist means hands-on care and a uniquely tailored plan designed for your specific needs. We monitor your progress at every visit and make adjustments as needed.
Long-Term Savings	Investing now may help prevent costly dental work later. Aligned teeth often experience less wear, fewer chips, and reduced risk of gum disease.

Our Orthodontic Treatment Process

Starting orthodontic treatment at Southern Smiles follows a clear process. Here's what to expect from your first visit through your final retainer check:

Step 1: Free Consult

Your first visit is a free consult where we get to know you and your smile goals. We also offer virtual online options for families who want to explore choices from home before coming into the practice. During this visit, we'll examine your teeth, discuss your concerns, and answer all your questions.

Step 2: Detailed Records and Custom Plan

Decided to move forward? We'll take digital scans, X-rays, and photographs of your teeth. No messy impressions here. Our team uses this information to create a uniquely tailored plan just for you, complete with timeline estimates and treatment options.

Step 3: Appliance Placement or Aligner Delivery

On your start day, we'll place your braces or deliver your first set of clear aligners. Our smile team walks you through everything: how to care for your appliances, what to eat, and what to expect in the coming weeks. We want you to feel confident and prepared.

Step 4: Regular Progress Visits

What happens next? You'll return to our Cary practice every four to eight weeks for adjustments. Quick visits. Big impact. These check-ins keep your treatment on track, and our team monitors your progress and makes any necessary changes to your uniquely tailored plan.

Step 5: Retainer Phase

Once your teeth reach their ideal positions, we remove your braces or you finish your final aligner trays. Then comes the retainer phase. Retainers maintain your results long-term. We'll provide clear instructions on wear schedules and care.

Treatment Timeline: Based on our practice experience, most orthodontic cases take between 12 and 24 months, though some simpler cases finish in as few as 6 months. Complex cases may take longer. We'll give you a realistic timeline during your free consult.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Orthodontic Treatment?

Orthodontic treatment works for guests at nearly every stage of life. Here's how we approach care for different age groups:

Children (Age 7 and Up)

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, we can spot developing problems and sometimes step in early to guide jaw growth. Early treatment doesn't always mean braces right away. Often, we simply monitor and wait for the right time.

Teenagers

The teen years remain the most popular time for braces and aligners. Most permanent teeth have erupted, and the jaw is still growing, making it easier to shift teeth into position. We offer traditional braces, clear braces, and clear aligners designed specifically for teen lifestyles.

Adults

More adults than ever are choosing orthodontic treatment. Clear aligners and discreet bracket options make it easier to straighten your smile without feeling self-conscious at work or social events. It's never too late to improve your smile, and we love helping adults rediscover what it feels like to grin without hesitation.

Common Issues We Treat

• Crowded or overlapping teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Overbite (upper teeth protrude over lower teeth)
• Underbite (lower teeth sit in front of upper teeth)
• Crossbite (some upper teeth sit inside lower teeth)
• Open bite (front teeth don't touch when biting down)

What You Need Before Starting

Healthy teeth and gums are essential before beginning orthodontic treatment. If you have cavities or gum disease, we'll coordinate with your general dentist to address those issues first. Once your mouth is healthy, you're ready to start your new smile.

Curious whether you're a candidate? Our virtual consult option lets you get a preliminary assessment from home.

Why Cary Families Choose Southern Smiles

When you're searching for an orthodontist in Cary, NC, you have options. Here's why local families trust our team with their smiles:

Award-Winning Expertise

Dr. Matthew McNutt and our smile team bring specialized orthodontic training and ongoing education to every case. Dr. McNutt completed orthodontic residency and continues to pursue advanced education in modern techniques. These honors reflect what guests tell us they feel here: thoughtful planning, gentle hands, and a team that genuinely cares about the result.

Rave Reviews from Your Neighbors

Many families from Cary, Apex, Clayton, and throughout the Triangle have shared their positive experiences with us. Our guest testimonials speak to the warm, welcoming environment and the results they've experienced.

Modern Technology and Family Feel

Digital scanning lets us create precise plans without uncomfortable impressions, and we can show you a preview of your expected results before you even begin. At Southern Smiles, you're not a patient, you're a guest. From our comfort dogs on paw patrol in the office to our welcoming team members, we go above and beyond to make every visit comfortable. Serving our community matters to us, and we love being part of what makes Cary such a great place to live and raise a family.

Flexible Payment Options

Everyone deserves a beautiful smile. That's why we offer flexible financing plans and work with most insurance providers. Our team will help you understand your coverage and find a payment approach that fits your budget. We go beyond what the world expects, and we want to put a smile on your face with our southern hospitality.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an orthodontist cost in Cary, NC?

Orthodontic treatment costs vary based on the complexity of your case and the type of appliances used. During your free consult at Southern Smiles, we'll provide a detailed cost estimate specific to your uniquely tailored plan. We offer flexible financing options and accept most dental insurance plans to help make treatment affordable for your family. Many families spread payments out over the length of treatment, which can make monthly costs very manageable. We'll walk you through every dollar before you commit, so there are no surprises along the way.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

Treatment length depends on your individual needs. Based on typical cases in our practice, simple cases may wrap up in 6 to 12 months, while more complex alignment or bite issues typically take 18 to 24 months. We'll give you a realistic timeline during your free consult, and we'll keep you updated on your progress throughout treatment.

Are clear aligners as effective as braces?

For many cases, yes. Clear aligners can effectively treat crowding, spacing, and various bite issues. Some complex cases still respond better to traditional braces. During your free consult, we'll recommend the option that will give you the best results for your specific situation.

At what age should my child see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial evaluation by age 7. At this age, we can identify potential problems and determine whether early treatment would be helpful. Many children don't need treatment right away, but early evaluation helps us plan ahead.

Does insurance cover orthodontic treatment?

Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits, though coverage varies widely. Our team will verify your benefits and explain exactly what your plan covers. We'll also discuss financing options to cover any remaining balance so cost isn't a barrier to your smile. If you have questions about HSA or FSA accounts, we can help you understand how those funds may apply too. The goal is simple: clarity up front, no guesswork later.

Do you offer virtual consults?

Yes! We offer virtual online options for families who want to explore their choices from the comfort of home. Submit photos of your smile, and our team will review them and provide feedback on potential treatment options. It's a convenient first step before scheduling an in-person visit.

Schedule Your Free Consult with Cary's Trusted Orthodontist

Ready to start your new smile? The team at Southern Smiles is here to help. Whether you're considering braces for your child, aligners for your teen, or finally treating yourself to the straight smile you deserve, we'd love to meet you and build a uniquely tailored plan around your specific needs.

Call us or schedule online to book your free consult. Prefer to start from home? Request a virtual option and we'll review your smile remotely.

We proudly serve families throughout Cary, Apex, Morrisville, Raleigh, and the greater Triangle area. Just honest answers, a warm welcome, and a team ready to listen.

Start your southern smile today.