Comprehensive Orthodontic Services

Traditional braces remain one of the most effective methods for correcting complex orthodontic issues. Today’s metal braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more attractive than those of the past.

Modern metal braces use high-grade stainless steel brackets and wires to gradually shift teeth into their ideal positions. These braces are exceptionally durable and can address severe misalignment issues, including:

• Significant overcrowding
• Wide gaps between teeth
• Severe bite problems
• Complex tooth rotation

For patients seeking a more discreet option, clear braces offer the same effectiveness as metal braces but with a less noticeable appearance. Made from ceramic materials that blend with your natural tooth color, clear braces provide a more aesthetically pleasing treatment experience while still delivering excellent results.

The right choice between metal and clear braces depends on your specific orthodontic needs and personal preferences. During your consultation, Dr. McCullum will discuss both options and help you decide which is best for your situation.

For patients seeking an almost invisible orthodontic solution, we offer premium clear aligner systems, including Invisalign and Spark. These custom-made, removable aligners gradually shift your teeth into position without metal brackets or wires.

Clear aligners provide several advantages for appropriate candidates:

• Nearly invisible appearance
• Removable for eating and cleaning
• No food restrictions
• Potentially fewer office visits
• Often more comfortable than traditional braces

Not every orthodontic case is suitable for clear aligner therapy. During your consultation, Dr. McCullum will evaluate your specific needs to determine if clear aligners may be an effective option for your treatment.

Early orthodontic intervention can guide proper jaw development and tooth eruption, potentially reducing the need for extensive treatment later. We offer comprehensive early treatment options for children showing signs of orthodontic problems.

Dr. McCullum specializes in airway-focused orthodontics, recognizing the important connection between proper breathing and facial development. Our early treatment approach may include:

• Palatal expansion to create proper space for teeth and improve airway function
• Habit cessation techniques and appliances to address thumb sucking or tongue thrusting
• Space maintainers to preserve proper tooth spacing after the premature loss of baby teeth
• Growth modification using facemask therapy or Herbst appliances

Early evaluation allows us to identify potential problems and intervene at the optimal time. We recommend children have their first orthodontic check-up by age seven, though certain issues may warrant earlier assessment. Call our office to discuss your child’s particular concerns.

Dentofacial orthopedics is a specialized branch of orthodontics that focuses on guiding the growth and development of the facial bones, particularly the jaws, in children and adolescents. Unlike traditional orthodontics, which primarily straightens teeth, dentofacial orthopedics addresses the underlying skeletal structures to create balanced facial proportions and improve overall function.

At McCullum Orthodontics, Dr. Heather McCullum uses advanced diagnostic tools to assess jaw relationships, facial symmetry, and airway function. Early evaluation allows for personalized treatment plans that utilize appliances like palatal expanders, headgear, and functional devices to correct jaw discrepancies and promote healthy development during critical growth periods.

This proactive approach can enhance facial aesthetics, improve breathing, and reduce the need for more invasive procedures in the future. By treating jaw growth issues early, McCullum Orthodontics helps children achieve lasting, natural results that support lifelong oral health and confidence.

Palatal expansion is one of the most effective early orthodontic solutions for children with narrow upper jaws or crowded teeth. By gently widening the upper jaw during key developmental years, this treatment creates more space for erupting teeth, improves jaw alignment, and reduces the need for future extractions or braces.

At McCullum Orthodontics in Jeffersonville, Dr. Heather McCullum integrates airway-focused care with orthodontics. This means palatal expanders are used not only to enhance dental alignment but also to support nasal breathing, proper tongue posture, and balanced facial development.

Custom-designed for each child, palatal expanders work in harmony with natural growth processes, delivering results that extend beyond the smile. Whether correcting crossbites or addressing sleep-disordered breathing, early intervention with expansion sets the foundation for lifelong health.

Space maintainers are custom orthodontic devices designed to preserve the space left by prematurely lost baby teeth. By holding the place for the permanent teeth, they prevent adjacent teeth from shifting, which helps avoid crowding and misalignment as your child grows.

At McCullum Orthodontics, Dr. Heather McCullum evaluates each child’s unique dental development to determine if a space maintainer is needed. She ensures the appliance fits comfortably and functions effectively, using precise impressions and personalized care tailored to your child’s needs.

Early intervention with space maintainers supports proper tooth eruption and jaw development, potentially reducing the need for more complex orthodontic treatments later on. Regular follow-up appointments allow the team to monitor progress and make adjustments as your child’s smile develops.

Achieving a beautiful smile is important, but maintaining it is equally crucial. Following active orthodontic treatment, we provide comprehensive retention options to preserve your results.

Our retention protocols are tailored to each patient’s specific needs and may include:

• Fixed retainers bonded to the back of teeth for invisible, continuous support
• Removable retainers for nighttime wear
• Combination approaches for optimal stability

Dr. McCullum will recommend the most appropriate retention strategy based on your individual case and will monitor your results through periodic follow-up visits to ensure long-term success.

Professional tooth whitening at McCullum Orthodontics offers a safe and effective way to brighten your smile and enhance your overall appearance. Dr. Heather McCullum combines advanced whitening techniques with personalized care to achieve natural, long-lasting results tailored to each patient’s needs.

During your consultation, Dr. McCullum evaluates factors such as existing dental restorations, tooth sensitivity, and the type of discoloration to recommend the most appropriate whitening approach. Maintaining your bright smile is supported through expert guidance on lifestyle habits and periodic touch-up treatments.

With a unique blend of orthodontic and aesthetic dentistry expertise, McCullum Orthodontics provides comprehensive smile transformations that go beyond straight teeth, helping patients in Jeffersonville and surrounding areas achieve both a healthier and more radiant smile.