Orthodontics
Orthodontics in Gladstone, MO
Expert orthodontic care for children, teens and adults.
We offer comprehensive orthodontic treatment, including traditional braces and Invisalign®, to help patients of all ages achieve beautifully aligned smiles in a comfortable, patient-centered environment.

Exceptional Dentistry in Gladstone, MO
Why choose orthodontics?
A straight smile offers more than aesthetic benefits: it contributes to better oral health and overall well-being. A balanced, symmetrical smile boosts self-esteem. Straight teeth are easier to clean, which reduces the risk of cavities and gum disease, and properly positioned teeth minimize enamel damage and premature wear. Correct alignment can also reduce jaw discomfort and tension-related headaches. Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for children; it’s for anyone who wants a healthier, more confident smile, and all treatment is completed in-house, with no need for outside referrals.
Orthodontic options
Explore our orthodontic services
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Braces
Braces straighten teeth and correct the bite, improving oral hygiene, reducing uneven wear and supporting jaw comfort.
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Invisalign
Invisalign® uses a series of clear, removable aligners, each worn for about two weeks, to gradually move teeth into alignment.
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Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are a series of custom, removable, transparent plastic trays that gradually move teeth into a planned position without brackets or wires.
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Retainers
A retainer is a custom orthodontic appliance worn after braces or clear aligners to hold teeth in their new positions while the surrounding bone and tissues settle.
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Retainer Replacement
Retainer replacement is making a new orthodontic retainer when the old one is lost, damaged or no longer fits.
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Interceptive Orthodontics
Interceptive orthodontics is early orthodontic treatment for children who still have a mix of baby and permanent teeth.
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Orthodontic Expanders
An orthodontic expander is a custom appliance fitted to the roof of the mouth that gradually widens a narrow upper jaw.
Orthodontic & Invisalign consultation
Free
Find out if Invisalign or braces are right for you
Our complimentary orthodontic consultation includes:
- Orthodontic exam
- Digital panoramic X-rays
- Digital profile view X-rays
- Orthodontic models & smile photographs
- A detailed, written treatment plan
For every age
Orthodontic care for children, teens and adults
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Early evaluations
Children should have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 5. Finding issues early can reduce the need for extractions or complex treatment later.
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Preventive orthodontics
Early treatment can help guide proper tooth eruption and create space for permanent teeth.
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Discreet options for adults
Adults who want to avoid traditional braces can choose Invisalign® or clear ceramic braces.
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Complete smile makeovers
Orthodontics can be combined with veneers, crowns and teeth whitening for a fully rejuvenated smile.
“After my orthodontic treatment, I feel my new confidence has propelled me in my career!”
— Quinn
Invisalign®: the clear choice for straighter teeth
Invisalign® uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually shift teeth into position, without metal brackets or wires. We are a certified Invisalign® provider. More about Invisalign
- Virtually invisible, for teens and adults
- Removable for eating, brushing and flossing
- Easier oral hygiene than traditional braces
- No brackets or wires to irritate the mouth
- Fewer in-office adjustments than braces
Why Choose Marx Family Dental for Orthodontics?
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Cutting-edge technology
Digital panoramic and profile-view X-rays, plus 3D smile simulations that let Invisalign® patients preview their results.
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Personalized plans
Custom solutions, with options for full orthodontic care or shorter cosmetic alignment treatments.
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Convenience and comfort
All treatment completed in-house, with flexible scheduling for busy families and professionals.
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Flexible financing
Financing options are available for Invisalign® and braces. Financing
Book your visit
Ready to begin your smile journey?
Take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile with a complimentary orthodontic consultation. We serve Gladstone, Kansas City and the surrounding communities with expert care for children, teens and adults, all in one place.

The short answer
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that straightens teeth and corrects the bite, using braces or clear aligners such as Invisalign. Treatment begins with an exam, digital panoramic and profile view X-rays, models and photographs, and a written plan, then the teeth are moved gradually and held in place afterward with a retainer. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, wear less and can reduce jaw discomfort, and treatment is available for children, teens and adults.
Orthodontics FAQ
- When should my child have a first orthodontic evaluation?
- Children should have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 5. At that stage the jaw is still growing, so some problems can be spotted and guided early. Identifying issues early can reduce the need for extractions or complex treatment later on. Not every child needs treatment right away, and many simply have their growth monitored.
- Is orthodontic treatment only for kids?
- No, orthodontic treatment is not only for kids, and many adults choose it. Adults can straighten their teeth or correct their bite too, and orthodontic treatment is for anyone who wants a healthier, more confident smile. Adults who want to avoid traditional braces can choose discreet options like Invisalign® or clear ceramic braces. Orthodontics can also be combined with veneers, crowns and teeth whitening as part of a wider smile makeover.
- What does the free orthodontic consultation include?
- The free orthodontic consultation includes an orthodontic exam, digital panoramic X-rays and digital profile view X-rays. It also includes orthodontic models and smile photographs that show how your teeth and bite fit together. You leave with a detailed, written treatment plan. It is a chance to find out whether Invisalign® or braces are right for you before you commit to anything.
- Do I need a referral for orthodontic treatment?
- No, you do not need a referral for orthodontic treatment. All treatments are completed in-house, with no need for outside referrals. That means your exam, planning and treatment all happen in the same office. It also makes it easier to combine orthodontics with the rest of your dental care.
- Can I preview my Invisalign® results?
- Yes, you can preview your Invisalign® results before treatment begins. We offer 3D smile simulations for Invisalign® patients that show how your teeth are planned to move. The simulation is built from records of your teeth and the treatment plan. It helps you see where treatment is heading and ask questions before you start.
Your dentist
Meet Dr. Emily Marx
A skilled family dentist, Dr. Marx is passionate about helping patients feel comfortable while achieving their best smile. Meet Dr. Marx

