Orthodontist in Richmond, VA: Services and Treatments We Offer

Braces, Invisalign and Early Treatment in Richmond, VA

Updated September 28, 2026 · Richmond Virginia Orthodontics, Short Pump & Midlothian, VA

Looking for an orthodontist in Richmond, VA? At Richmond Virginia Orthodontics (RVO), we straighten smiles for kids, teens and adults with traditional metal braces, clear braces, Invisalign, early orthodontic treatment and retainers. Richmond Magazine readers voted us the #1 orthodontist in Richmond, and we see patients at two offices: Short Pump (Greengate) in Henrico and Midlothian.

This guide walks you through what an orthodontist does, when to see one and every service we offer, so you know exactly what to expect before your first visit.

What Is an Orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a dentist who completed two to three extra years of specialty training focused on straightening teeth and correcting bites and jaw alignment. Your general dentist keeps your teeth healthy. An orthodontist makes sure they line up and fit together correctly. Both of our orthodontists, Dr. Chad Schanilec and Dr. Jason Gladwell, completed their orthodontic training at VCU/MCV here in Richmond.

Why See an Orthodontist?

A straighter smile is the part everyone notices, but the health benefits matter just as much:

• A healthier bite. Teeth that meet correctly make chewing and speaking easier and reduce uneven wear.
• Easier cleaning. Crowded, overlapping teeth trap plaque, which raises the risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Less strain on your jaw. Correcting a bad bite can ease jaw discomfort for some patients.
• More confidence. People who like their smile tend to smile more at work, in photos and with friends.
• Early problem-solving for kids. Catching bite and jaw issues early can make later treatment simpler.

You don’t need a referral. Many patients come to us through their family dentist, but you’re welcome to book a new patient exam on your own.

Orthodontic Services We Offer in Richmond

Every orthodontic service we offer, for kids, teens and adults.

Traditional metal braces

Metal braces are strong and precise, and they can handle nearly any case, from severe crowding to complex bite corrections. Today’s brackets are smaller than ever, and kids love picking colored bands. Learn more about braces in Richmond, VA.

Clear (ceramic) braces

Clear braces work just like metal braces but use tooth-colored brackets that blend in with your smile. They’re a favorite with adults and older teens who want reliable results with a more discreet look.

Invisalign clear aligners

Invisalign uses removable, nearly invisible aligners to move your teeth. There are no food restrictions, and you can brush and floss normally. It’s a great fit for many teens and adults who will wear their aligners 20 to 22 hours a day. See what Invisalign can fix.

Early orthodontic treatment for kids

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic check by age 7. Most kids simply need monitoring. For some, early treatment with an expander or space maintainer guides jaw growth and makes room for adult teeth. Read our guide to orthodontics for children.

Adult orthodontics

It’s never too late. Many of our patients are adults who never had braces or whose teeth shifted after treatment as a teen. Clear braces and Invisalign make adult treatment easy to fit into work and family life.

Retainers and post-treatment care

Teeth naturally try to drift back after braces or aligners. Retainers hold your new smile in place, and we’ll show you how long and how often to wear them.

Technology That Makes Treatment Easier

We use digital X-rays, 3D imaging and digital scans in place of goopy impressions. A quick scan creates a precise 3D model of your teeth. We use it to plan your treatment and, for Invisalign, to show you a preview of your results before you start. Better planning means more predictable results and fewer surprises.

What to Expect at Your First Visit

1. Talk about your goals. Tell us what you’d like to change about your smile.
2. Exam and imaging. We evaluate your teeth, bite and jaw and take the digital images we need.
3. Your options. We explain which treatments fit your case and why, including braces, Invisalign or simply monitoring.
4. Timeline and fee. You’ll leave with a realistic timeline and a clear, itemized treatment fee.

We work with many dental insurance plans that include orthodontic benefits, and our team will help you understand your coverage.

Why Richmond Families Choose RVO

• Voted #1 orthodontist in Richmond by Richmond Magazine readers.
• Experienced orthodontists. Dr. Schanilec has more than 20 years in practice.
• Two convenient offices: Short Pump at Greengate (3400 Haydenpark Lane, Henrico) and Midlothian (14307 Winterview Parkway).
• Early and late hours: open as early as 7 a.m. on Wednesdays and until 6 p.m. on Mondays.
• Community-minded: our Charity Cafe serves free coffee, and 100% of donations go to a local charity each quarter.

Orthodontist FAQs

What’s the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?

A general dentist focuses on the overall health of your teeth and gums. An orthodontist has two to three additional years of specialty training in straightening teeth and correcting bites.

At what age should my child see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic check by age 7. Most children won’t need treatment right away, but an early visit helps catch developing problems.

Am I too old for braces or Invisalign?

No. As long as your teeth and gums are healthy, you can straighten your teeth at any age.

Do you accept dental insurance?

Yes. We work with many dental insurance plans that include orthodontic benefits, and we’ll help you understand your coverage.

Book Your Visit With a Richmond Orthodontist

Ready to take the first step toward a healthier, straighter smile? Call 804-884-9906 or use the form on this page to schedule your new patient exam in Short Pump or Midlothian.