Most families in Charlestown do not realize how close they already are to specialist-level orthodontic care. The drive to McCullum Orthodontics in Jeffersonville takes just minutes, and the difference between a residency-trained orthodontist and a general dentist offering aligners on the side shows up directly in how teeth are moved, how results are monitored, and how well a smile holds up long term.
Dr. Heather McCullum founded McCullum Orthodontics after earning her DMD summa cum laude as valedictorian of her class at the University of Louisville School of Dentistry, where she was inducted into Omicron Kappa Upsilon, Phi Kappa Phi, and the Delphi Society. She completed her orthodontic residency there, serving as class president and conducting original research on reducing radiation exposure during routine imaging. Those 14 years of experience correcting teeth and bite alignment across private and group practices in Illinois and Kentucky prepared her to bring something meaningful back home. Our full range of orthodontic services is available to Charlestown families — no referral needed.
Dr. McCullum is present at every appointment from the first evaluation through the final visit. There are no rotating providers, no unfamiliar faces at each check-in, and no shortcuts in how a patient’s teeth and bite alignment are planned or monitored. For families used to the impersonal feel of corporate orthodontic chains, the experience at McCullum Orthodontics is genuinely different — and Charlestown families notice it from the very first appointment.
Her academic record reflects the same commitment to precision and quality. She was inducted into Omicron Kappa Upsilon, Phi Kappa Phi, and the Delphi Society, and her honors include the American Association of Orthodontists Award and the American College of Dentists Student Leadership and Professionalism Award. Dr. McCullum is also a mother of a child with special needs, which gives her a personal frame of reference when caring for patients who need additional patience, flexibility, or accommodation.
McCullum Orthodontics also offers clinical capabilities that set it apart from most dental offices in the region. Dr. McCullum is trained in TMJ splint therapy for patients dealing with jaw joint discomfort, and she has experience with multidisciplinary cases that require coordination with oral surgeons or other dental professionals. That breadth of training means Charlestown families do not need to look elsewhere when a case involves more than routine tooth alignment.
Timing is one of the most important factors in orthodontic care, and it is one of the first things Dr. McCullum discusses with Charlestown families. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child receive an orthodontic check-up no later than age 7, because by that age a trained specialist can identify developing problems with jaw growth and bite alignment before they become more complex and costly to correct. Straightening teeth is not purely cosmetic — proper alignment also makes it easier to keep teeth clean, reduces the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, and supports healthy oral function for life.
When early treatment is appropriate, the options at McCullum Orthodontics include palatal expanders, Herbst appliances, facemask therapy, space maintainers, airway-focused expansion, and habit correction appliances. Applying these treatments correctly requires genuine specialist training, and Dr. McCullum’s background in dentofacial orthopedics is one of the most meaningful advantages she brings to Charlestown families.
Older patients have strong options at McCullum Orthodontics as well. Teens considering braces can choose between traditional metal and clear ceramic brackets, and adults who prefer a discreet path often find that clear aligners fit their lifestyle well. Dr. McCullum evaluates each case individually and recommends the approach best suited to the patient’s clinical needs and goals — she never steers patients toward a particular option for convenience.
McCullum Orthodontics serves Charlestown patients with specialist-directed clear aligner treatment just minutes from home. Dr. McCullum plans and monitors every case directly. Available clear aligner options include:
All clear aligner treatment at McCullum Orthodontics is handled by Dr. McCullum — not assistants or rotating providers. New patients from Charlestown can schedule a free consultation to find out which option fits their case.
Starting orthodontic care should feel straightforward, not overwhelming. McCullum Orthodontics accepts most major PPO insurance plans, and our team walks every Charlestown family through their benefits clearly and honestly before any commitment is made. We believe cost should never be the reason a family delays care, so our financing options include interest-free payment arrangements designed to make high-quality care accessible for every household, regardless of budget.
Here is what new patients can expect when they begin at our practice:
No Charlestown family should have to delay care because the finances felt unclear, and we work hard to make sure they never do.
Dr. Heather McCullum is a valedictorian-trained orthodontist with 14 years of experience correcting teeth and bite alignment across all age groups, a deep connection to Southern Indiana, and a practice designed around the needs of families just like yours. Whether you are bringing in a child for a first dental evaluation, exploring braces for a teenager, or pursuing aligner treatment as an adult, the care here is personal, thorough, and built to last.
All new patients from Charlestown are welcome to schedule a complimentary first visit with no obligation. Contact McCullum Orthodontics today and see what specialist-led orthodontic care can do for your family’s smile.
McCullum Orthodontics combines strong clinical credentials, a full range of treatment options, and a warm, modern environment to give Charlestown families the orthodontic experience they deserve. Whether you are bringing in a child for a first evaluation, exploring braces for a teenager, or looking into clear aligners for yourself, Dr. McCullum and our team are ready to help you build a plan fitting your goals and your life. You can also review insurance and coverage information on our website before your visit, so you arrive fully prepared. We invite you to reach out to our office to schedule your free consultation today. Getting started is simple, and our team looks forward to meeting you.
McCullum Orthodontics is conveniently located in Jeffersonville, Indiana, serving patients throughout southern Indiana and the greater Louisville area.
