Fantastic Braces in Chesapeake & Suffolk, VA
Transform Your Smile with Braces at Woodard Orthodontics
Whether you’re considering braces for your child or yourself, we offer modern, effective options tailored to various needs and smile goals.
Let’s start your journey toward a straighter, healthier smile today!

How Exactly Do Orthodontic Braces Work?
Unlike the bulky appliances of the past, modern braces are sleeker, more comfortable, and more efficient. Orthodontic braces use gentle, consistent pressure to gradually shift your teeth into their ideal positions. This gentle pressure is created with brackets bonded to each tooth, and ligatures (tiny rubber bands) hold archwires within the brackets. The archwire is tightened and adjusted throughout your treatment to guide your teeth into newly aligned positions.
You’ll return to our office for regular appointments with Dr. Lilli, who will monitor your progress, make precise adjustments, and ensure everything is on track for your healthiest, most confident smile.
What to Expect at Your First Braces Consultation
- Warm Welcome & Office Tour: You'll meet our friendly team and get familiar with our office environment.
- Initial Exam: A thorough orthodontic examination will help us evaluate your current bite, alignment, and jaw structure.
- Discussion of Treatment Options: We’ll discuss whether now is the right time to start treatment and explore your braces options.
- Clinical Diagnosis: After reviewing your records, you’ll receive a complete diagnosis of your orthodontic needs.
- Custom Treatment Plan: We’ll summarize your personalized treatment plan, goals, and estimated fees.
- One-on-One Q&A Time: We make time for questions from both patients and parents, so everyone leaves informed and confident about next steps.

Braces Treatments Available at Woodard Orthodontics
We proudly offer a variety of braces options to fit every age and aesthetic preference:

Traditional Metal Braces

Clear Ceramic Braces

Gold Braces
How to Know If You Need Braces
Not sure if braces are right for you or your child? Braces can fix a wide variety of minor to complex issues. Here are some common signs that may indicate braces could work for you:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbite, underbite, or crossbite
- Difficulty chewing or speaking clearly
- Early or late loss of baby teeth (in kids)
If you or your child has any of these issues, it’s time to schedule a consultation with our team in Chesapeake or Suffolk. We’ll assess your smile and develop a customized treatment plan for your needs and goals.


Braces Maintenance Tips
Keeping your braces clean and intact is key to achieving outstanding results. We’ll always be here to help you if you have any questions about how to maintain your braces. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:
- Brush after every meal with a soft-bristled brush
- Use water flossers to clean between teeth and dislodge food that may get stuck to brackets and archwires
- Avoid sticky, crunchy, or hard foods that can damage brackets
- Wear any prescribed elastics or appliances as directed
- Attend regular checkups so we can track your progress
Braces Alternatives
Braces aren’t the only way for kids, teens, and adults to achieve a straighter smile. At Woodard Orthodontics, we also offer a range of discreet and flexible options, including Invisalign® clear aligners. This option is nearly invisible and can be removed for eating and cleaning. Invisalign First™ provides early interceptive care for younger patients, while Invisalign Express offers a faster solution for minor cosmetic adjustments.
If you’re exploring alternatives to braces, our team will help you evaluate your options and choose the one that best fits your lifestyle and smile goals.

Begin Your Smile Journey with Braces Today
Whether you’re a teen gearing up for high school photos, a parent exploring braces for your child, or an adult ready for a confidence boost, we’ll help you decide on the right solution for you.
Let’s create a treatment plan that fits your smile, lifestyle, and goals. With expert care and flexible braces options, you’ll feel at home at Woodard Orthodontics every step of the way.
Braces FAQs
How Long Does Braces Treatment Take?
Treatment typically ranges from 18 to 24 months, depending on your unique needs.
Do Braces Hurt?
You may feel some pressure after adjustments, but it’s usually temporary and manageable with over-the-counter pain relief (as directed).
Can Adults Get Braces?
Absolutely! Adult braces are increasingly popular, and we offer discreet options like ceramic clear braces for adults.
What Foods Should I Avoid With Braces?
Skip hard, sticky, or chewy foods like gum, popcorn, and caramel to protect your brackets.
Are Braces Covered by Insurance?
Many plans include orthodontic benefits. We’re happy to check your coverage and walk you through financing options.
Don’t Just Take It From Us:
See Why Families Love Woodard Orthodontics