How to Choose the Best Orthodontist in Short Pump, VA

A Straight-Talk Guide for Short Pump Families

Updated September 29, 2026 · Richmond Virginia Orthodontics, Short Pump & Midlothian, VA

The best orthodontist in Short Pump, VA isn’t the one with the flashiest ads. It’s the one who has specialty orthodontic training, offers both braces and Invisalign, gives you a clear, itemized fee, and will still be seeing you in person 18 months from now. Use this guide to compare your options. When you’re ready, we’d love for Richmond Virginia Orthodontics (RVO) at Greengate to be one of your consultations.

We’ve practiced in the West End for years, and we know Short Pump families have plenty of choices. So instead of a sales pitch, here’s the checklist we’d give our own friends.

Start With Training: Orthodontist vs. Dentist

How an orthodontist differs from a general dentist.

Every orthodontist is a dentist, but most dentists aren’t orthodontists. An orthodontist completes dental school and then a two- to three-year, full-time orthodontic residency focused only on moving teeth and guiding jaw growth. Some general dentists offer clear aligners, but complex bites are usually referred out. If you want one practice to handle anything from a simple gap to a deep overbite, look for an orthodontic specialist. Board certification through the American Board of Orthodontics is an extra credential some orthodontists pursue, and it’s worth asking about.

What to look for

• Where they completed orthodontic residency
• How many years they’ve been treating patients
• Whether the orthodontist, not just an assistant, reviews your progress

Look for Both Braces and Invisalign Under One Roof

An office that only offers one type of treatment will naturally recommend that one. A practice that offers metal and clear braces as well as Invisalign clear aligners can match the tool to your teeth. Ask each office why they’re recommending a specific option for you, and what they’d choose if it were their own kid.

Questions that reveal a lot

• “Would braces or aligners work better for my bite, and why?”
• “What happens if my aligners aren’t tracking?”
• “How many Invisalign cases do you treat?” Invisalign provider tiers, like Invisalign Diamond Plus, reflect case volume.

6 Questions to Ask at Your Consultation

Bring these questions to every consultation.

1. Are you an orthodontic specialist? Ask about residency training.
2. Do you offer braces and Invisalign? That keeps the advice unbiased.
3. Who will I see at check-ins? You want an orthodontist overseeing your care.
4. What’s the full cost? Ask what’s included: records, emergency visits, retainers.
5. Do you work with my insurance? Many plans include orthodontic benefits.
6. Will the schedule fit my life? Early and late hours matter for school and work.

Check the Real-World Details

Location and hours

You’ll visit every six to ten weeks, so a convenient location matters. Our Short Pump office at Greengate (3400 Haydenpark Lane, Unit 201, Henrico) is close to Wyndham, Twin Hickory, Wellesley, Glen Allen and Innsbrook. We open at 7 a.m. on Wednesdays and stay until 6 p.m. on Mondays.

Transparent pricing

A good orthodontist gives you an itemized fee in writing and explains how insurance, HSA/FSA dollars and payment options apply. For more, read our guide to affordable orthodontic treatment in Richmond.

Technology that improves the experience

Digital scans instead of goopy impressions, 3D treatment previews and digital X-rays make planning more precise and visits more comfortable.

Reviews and word of mouth

Ask neighbors, your dentist and other parents at school. Richmond Magazine readers voted RVO the #1 orthodontist in Richmond, and many of our patients come to us through friends and family.

Care for Every Age in Short Pump

• Kids: a first orthodontic check by age 7, as the AAO recommends. See our guide to orthodontics for children.
• Teens: braces with colored bands or Invisalign Teen with wear indicators.
• Adults: discreet options like clear braces and Invisalign for adults. It’s common to fix teeth that shifted after age 40.

Meet the Orthodontists at RVO Short Pump

Dr. Chad Schanilec completed his orthodontic residency at MCV and has more than 20 years of experience. Dr. Jason Gladwell earned his DDS at UNC Chapel Hill and completed orthodontic training at VCU/MCV. Both doctors plan every case personally. If you’re comparing Short Pump orthodontists, we’d be glad to be part of your search. Learn more about our Short Pump orthodontist office.

Frequently Asked Questions About Short Pump Orthodontists

How do I find the best orthodontist in Short Pump, VA?

Look for a specialist with orthodontic residency training, both braces and Invisalign, transparent pricing, convenient hours and strong local reviews. Schedule consultations and compare how each office explains your options.

Should I get more than one orthodontic opinion?

Yes, if you’re unsure. A second opinion is common for bigger decisions. Compare recommendations, timelines and total cost.

Do I need a referral to see an orthodontist in Short Pump?

No. You can book a new patient exam directly, although many patients are referred by their dentist.

How often will I visit the orthodontist?

Most braces patients visit every six to ten weeks, and most Invisalign patients every six to eight weeks.

Book a Consultation in Short Pump

Ready to compare? Call 804-884-9906 or use the form on this page to book at our Greengate office in Short Pump. Prefer the south side? We also see patients at our Midlothian office. Want the big picture first? Visit our orthodontist in Richmond, VA page.