Orthodontists: Top Procedures, Stats, and How to Find the Right Specialist (2026 Guide)
December 5, 2025 · by the Help Me Find A Doctor editorial team
Stats refreshed September 2026
A patient-friendly guide to orthodontists — what specialists do, the most common procedures (invisalign and clear aligners, traditional metal braces, ceramic and lingual braces), and what to look for when choosing one.
Braces, Invisalign, and bite correction for all ages. Below: the procedures patients ask about most, the numbers that put the field in context, and the questions worth raising at a first consultation with a orthodontists specialist.
Top procedures & treatments
Invisalign and clear aligners
Removable trays for mild to moderate crowding, spacing, and bite issues.
Traditional metal braces
Highest precision for complex tooth movements and growing patients.
Ceramic and lingual braces
Lower-visibility alternatives for adults.
Early-intervention orthodontics (Phase I)
Expanders and partial braces in children ages 7–10 to guide jaw growth.
Surgical orthodontics
Combined orthodontic-orthognathic care for severe skeletal discrepancies.
By the numbers
Updated September 2026- Approximately 6 million patients in the U.S. are currently undergoing orthodontic treatment, with 25% of that population being adults (American Association of Orthodontists).
- Invisalign and clear aligners now represent over 33% of new case starts as patient preference shifts toward discreet aesthetics (American Journal of Orthodontics).
- Phase I early-intervention screenings are recommended for children by age 7 to identify skeletal growth issues before permanent teeth erupt (American Association of Orthodontists).
- Over 80% of patients report that orthodontic treatment significantly improved their confidence and quality of life (AAO Consumer Trends Survey).
Trending this month: Patients in 2026 are increasingly opting for clear aligners and lingual braces to maintain a professional appearance. Growth in adult orthodontics is driven by 'Zoom effects' and the integration of digital AI scanning for faster treatment times.
How to choose the right specialist
Verify board certification, ask how many of your specific procedure the clinician performs each year, and review patient outcomes — not just star ratings. A orthodontists provider who clearly explains your options, the evidence, and the realistic recovery timeline is worth more than the most heavily advertised name.
Use our directory to filter orthodontists specialists by city, then bring this article (and the FAQ below) to your consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Invisalign vs braces?
Aligners excel for mild-to-moderate cases and esthetics; braces handle complex root movement and severe rotations more predictably.
When should kids see an orthodontist?
By age 7 — even if no treatment is needed yet, early screening flags issues that benefit from interceptive care.
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