Kendallville Orthodontist: Expert Care for Every Smile

What Does a Kendallville Orthodontist Do?

A Kendallville orthodontist diagnoses, prevents, and treats misaligned teeth and jaws using straightening tools like braces and clear aligners. After dental school, an orthodontist completes two to three additional years of specialty residency focused entirely on tooth movement, jaw growth, and bite correction.

At Hoagburg Orthodontics, we put that specialty training to work designing customized treatment plans for kids, teens, and adults across northeast Indiana. While your family dentist focuses on cleanings, cavities, and overall oral health, an orthodontist concentrates exclusively on alignment. That deeper focus matters. Specialty training means we spend years studying how teeth shift, how jaws develop, and how bite forces affect long-term comfort. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, only a small share of dental school graduates complete the additional residency required to call themselves an orthodontist.

What Treatments Do We Offer?

At Hoagburg Orthodontics, your customized treatment plan may include one or more of the following options:

Metal braces: Modern brackets and wires that are smaller, smoother, and more efficient than older versions.
Clear braces: Tooth-colored ceramic brackets that blend in with your natural smile.
Clear aligners: Custom trays that gradually shift teeth without brackets or wires.
Retainers: Custom appliances that protect your results long after active treatment ends.
Early interceptive care: Phase one treatment for young children whose jaws are still developing.

Serving Kendallville and the Surrounding Communities

Kendallville families don't have to travel far to find specialty orthodontic care. Our Auburn office sits just a short drive south of Kendallville on State Road 8, and our Fort Wayne office in northeast Indiana is an easy reach for families heading south on US-33. Both locations offer the same skilled team, the same warm welcome, and the same focus on quality, integrity and compassion that has shaped this family-owned practice for decades. No matter which office you choose, you'll find the same friendly faces and the same commitment to honest, careful care.

Orthodontic Care for Every Age

Orthodontic treatment isn't just for middle schoolers anymore. We see:

Children (ages 7+) for early evaluations and interceptive care when needed.
Teens for full braces or clear aligner treatment timed with their growth.
Adults who want to finally have the smile they've always pictured.

Dr. Brian Hoagburg, DDS, MSD and Dr. Rachel Hoagburg, DMD, MSD lead the clinical team. As a brother-sister orthodontic team, they bring two perspectives and shared values to every visit. Their father, Dr. Steve Hoagburg, founded the practice on the principles of excellence, integrity and compassion, and those values still shape every consultation, fitting, and adjustment today.

Need a second opinion, a first evaluation for your child, or ready to start your own smile transformation? A Kendallville orthodontist visit at Hoagburg Orthodontics begins with a friendly conversation and a clear plan.

Benefits of Choosing a Local Kendallville Orthodontist

Choosing a local orthodontist means more than convenience. It means building a relationship with a team that knows your family, remembers your goals, and is close enough to see you quickly when life happens. Here's what Kendallville families gain from working with a nearby practice like Hoagburg Orthodontics in northeast Indiana.

Better Oral Health

Straight teeth are easier to brush, easier to floss, and easier to keep healthy long term. When teeth are crowded or overlapped, plaque hides in spots your toothbrush can't reach, which can lead to decay and gum issues. Aligned teeth also distribute biting forces evenly, which helps protect enamel and reduces wear over time. Over the long run, that means fewer surprises at your regular dental checkups and a healthier mouth overall.

A Confidence Boost That Lasts

A smile transformation does more than change how your teeth look. It changes how you feel in photos, in job interviews, on first dates, and at family gatherings. Many of our adult patients tell us they wish they had started sooner. Teens often tell us the same thing once their braces come off, and parents love seeing that new confidence shine through at home and at school.

Why Do Appointments Close to Home Matter?

Our Auburn and Fort Wayne offices are both reasonable drives from Kendallville. That matters when:

Your teen has back-to-back appointments during the school year.
You're juggling work meetings and want a quick adjustment over lunch.
A bracket pops off the night before a big event and you need to be seen.

Local care means fewer missed school hours, fewer half-day work absences, and less time in the car. When something unexpected comes up, a nearby office can often fit you in the same day rather than weeks later.

A Customized Treatment Plan for You

No two smiles are alike, so no two treatment plans should be either. Dr. Brian and Dr. Rachel design each customized treatment plan around your bite, your goals, your timeline, and your lifestyle. A high school senior heading to college may need a different approach than a parent who wants discreet aligners for a wedding next year.

Modern Technology and Flexible Options

We invest in tools that make treatment more accurate and more comfortable, including digital scanners that replace messy impression trays. Combined with multiple treatment options, this means we can offer:

Metal braces for efficient, reliable results
Clear braces for a more discreet look
Clear aligners for nearly invisible treatment

Digital scanning also lets us show you a preview of where your treatment is headed, so you can picture the end result before you even begin.

Protection Against Long-Term Issues

Untreated bite issues don't usually get better on their own. Over the years, misalignment can contribute to:

Uneven tooth wear and chipping
Jaw soreness or clicking
Headaches related to bite stress
Difficulty chewing certain foods
Speech challenges

Treating these concerns earlier rather than later often means a shorter, simpler experience. That's one more reason families choose to work with a local Kendallville orthodontist they can build a long-term relationship with. After all, we treat you like family because we are one.

The Orthodontic Treatment Process Step by Step

Here's what treatment looks like from start to finish at Hoagburg Orthodontics, from your first visit to your final retainer check. Every step is built around clear communication so you always know what comes next.

Step 1: Free Consultation and Digital Exam

Your first visit is a free consultation with no pressure and no obligation. Dr. Brian or Dr. Rachel will:

Listen to your smile goals
Examine your teeth, jaws, and bite
Capture digital scans and any needed imaging
Discuss what they see in plain language

You'll leave with honest answers, not a sales pitch. We want you to feel comfortable asking anything that's on your mind.

Step 2: Your Customized Treatment Plan

After the exam, we build a customized treatment plan around your needs. We'll walk you through:

Which treatment options will work best for your case
How long each option typically takes
What the visit schedule will look like
Total cost and flexible financing choices

This is your chance to ask every question on your list. We want you to feel fully informed before you decide anything.

Step 3: Getting Started With Braces or Aligners

Once you choose your path, we schedule your fitting appointment.

For metal or clear braces: We bond brackets to each tooth and connect them with a thin archwire. The visit is comfortable and typically takes about an hour.
For clear aligners: We deliver your first set of custom trays and show you how to wear, remove, and clean them.

You'll get a kit with everything you need to care for your new appliance at home, plus a direct line to our team if any questions come up between visits.

Step 4: How Often Will You Come In for Progress Visits?

Throughout active treatment, you'll come in for short check-ins so we can track progress and make adjustments.

Treatment Type	Typical Visit Frequency	Typical Treatment Length
Metal braces	Every 6-8 weeks	18-24 months
Clear braces	Every 6-8 weeks	18-24 months
Clear aligners	Every 8-12 weeks	12-18 months

Actual timelines vary based on the complexity of your case and how closely you follow Dr. Brian or Dr. Rachel's instructions, especially with aligner wear time.

Step 5: The Retention Phase

When active treatment ends, we celebrate the big reveal and move into retention. Retainers hold your teeth in their new positions while bone and tissue settle. We offer the Smile Savers Retainer Club to make this stage simple, with replacement retainers available when life happens.

What About Comfort?

Modern orthodontics is far gentler than the clunky appliances some adults remember. You may notice mild soreness for a day or two after a fitting or adjustment, especially when biting down. Most people manage this with soft foods and over-the-counter relief. Within a few days, things settle and you barely notice the appliance is there.

By the time you finish, you'll have a smile transformation that's built to last, plus a clear retainer plan to protect your investment.

Are You a Candidate for Orthodontic Treatment?

At our Kendallville-area offices, if your teeth don't sit quite right or your bite feels off, you're probably a candidate. Orthodontic treatment is more accessible and more discreet than ever, and there's no real upper age limit. At Hoagburg Orthodontics, we treat kids as young as seven and adults well into their 60s and 70s.

Common Issues We Treat

You may benefit from orthodontic care if you notice:

Crowding: Teeth that overlap or twist because there isn't enough space.
Gaps: Visible spaces between teeth that affect appearance or function.
Overbite: Upper front teeth that significantly cover the lower front teeth.
Underbite: Lower front teeth that sit in front of the upper front teeth.
Crossbite: Upper and lower teeth that don't line up correctly when you bite down.
Open bite: Front teeth that don't touch when the back teeth are closed.

When Is the Right Time for a Child's First Visit?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic check-up by age 7. By this age, enough adult teeth have come in for Dr. Brian or Dr. Rachel to spot patterns that might cause trouble later. Most kids won't need treatment right away. The early visit simply gives us a chance to monitor growth and step in at the ideal moment if needed.

Adult Orthodontics Is More Common Than You Think

A growing share of orthodontic patients are adults. Many never had braces as kids. Others had treatment years ago and saw their teeth shift back over time. Adults often choose clear aligners or clear braces for a more discreet look during treatment, which fits easily into busy professional lives.

Choosing Between Aligners and Braces

Here's a quick comparison to help you think through your options:

Feature	Clear Aligners	Metal Braces	Clear Braces
Visibility	Nearly invisible	Most visible	Subtle
Removable	Yes	No	No
Best for	Mild to moderate cases	All cases	Most cases
Eating restrictions	None (remove to eat)	Some foods to avoid	Some foods to avoid
Daily care	Easy brushing and flossing	Requires extra care	Requires extra care

Dr. Brian and Dr. Rachel will help you find your perfect fit based on your bite, your goals, and your day-to-day life.

Signs It's Time to Schedule

Consider booking a free consult if you or your child experience:

Difficulty chewing or biting
Jaw soreness or clicking
Teeth that look crowded or spaced
A bite that feels uneven
Self-consciousness about your smile

A short visit can give you answers and a plan.

Why Kendallville Families Trust Hoagburg Orthodontics

Trust is built over time, through consistent care and honest conversations. Families across northeast Indiana have chosen Hoagburg Orthodontics for decades because of how we treat people, not just teeth.

A Specialty-Trained Team You Can Rely On

Every doctor in our practice is a true orthodontic specialist:

Dr. Brian Hoagburg, DDS, MSD completed dental school followed by a master's-level residency in orthodontics.
Dr. Rachel Hoagburg, DMD, MSD brings the same specialty credentials and genuinely enjoys treating kids.
Dr. Steve Hoagburg, our founder, set the standard with decades of clinical experience and the values that still guide our team.

As active members of the American Association of Orthodontists, our doctors stay current with the latest techniques, materials, and best practices.

A Family-Owned Practice With Deep Roots

Hoagburg Orthodontics has been creating stunning smiles for decades. That heritage matters. It means we've seen generations of the same families walk through our doors, and we still get holiday cards from patients whose kids are now bringing in their own kids. We're creating a legacy of smiles, one family at a time.

Real Results, Real Stories

We're proud of the results our family achieves, and we love sharing them. You can browse before and after photos and video testimonials to hear directly from people who've sat in the same chair you're considering.

A Warm, Welcoming Office

From the front desk to the treatment chairs, our team works hard to make every visit feel relaxed. Kids get high-fives. Parents get clear answers. Adults get treated with the same care and respect as our youngest patients. There's no rushing, no pressure, and no confusing dental jargon.

Honest Conversations About Cost

We think orthodontic care should be within reach, so we offer flexible financing that fits real family budgets. Our team will walk you through monthly payment options, in-house plans, and how to use any insurance or HSA/FSA benefits you might have.

Community Roots

Beyond the office, we give back through programs like the Hoagburg Scholarship, supporting local students with their next steps after high school. Our team genuinely cares about the communities we serve, including Kendallville and the surrounding area of northeast Indiana.

When you choose Hoagburg Orthodontics, you're not just signing up for treatment. You're becoming part of a family that lives out excellence, integrity and compassion at every single visit. We treat you like family because we are one, and our family can't wait to meet yours.

Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics in Kendallville

How much do braces cost in Kendallville?

Braces in Kendallville typically range in cost depending on the type of appliance, the complexity of your case, and the length of treatment. We'll discuss exact numbers openly during your free consultation. We offer flexible financing with low monthly payments, accept most insurance plans, and work with HSA and FSA accounts so you can spread cost over time. No surprise fees, ever.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

Most patients complete treatment in 12 to 24 months. Clear aligner cases for mild to moderate alignment often finish closer to 12 to 18 months, while more involved braces cases may take 18 to 24 months. Your timeline depends on your specific bite, your age, and how consistently you wear your appliance or aligners as directed.

Does orthodontic treatment hurt?

Modern orthodontics is far more comfortable than it used to be. You may feel mild soreness for a day or two after your initial fitting or after an adjustment, especially when chewing. Most people manage this easily with soft foods and over-the-counter relief. Within a few days, your mouth adjusts and the appliance feels like a normal part of your day.

Are clear aligners as effective as braces?

For most cases, yes. Clear aligners can correct crowding, spacing, and many bite issues just as effectively as braces, as long as they're worn 20 to 22 hours per day. Complex cases involving significant rotations or jaw alignment may still be best treated with braces. Dr. Brian or Dr. Rachel will tell you honestly which option will give you the best result.

At what age should my child see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic check-up by age 7. By this age, enough adult teeth have erupted for us to spot developing issues like crowding, crossbites, or jaw growth concerns. Most kids won't need treatment right away. The early visit simply lets us monitor growth and step in at the right time if needed.

Do you offer payment plans or accept insurance?

Yes. We offer flexible financing options with low or no down payment, in-house monthly payment plans, and we accept most major dental insurance plans that include orthodontic benefits. Our team is happy to verify your benefits before your visit and walk you through every available option so you know exactly what to expect.

Schedule Your Free Consultation in Kendallville Today

Take the first step toward your smile transformation. Booking your free consult at Hoagburg Orthodontics is simple, and there's zero obligation to move forward.

Here's how to schedule:

Call us: (260) 529-5541
Book online: Visit our website to request an appointment that fits your schedule
Stop by: We'd love to meet you in person at either office

Our Fort Wayne office at 9409 Illinois Rd. and our Auburn office at 1568 Shook Dr. both welcome Kendallville families for free consultations, treatment visits, and retainer check-ins. Office hours are available by phone and on our website, so you can plan a time that works around school and work.

At your first visit, you'll meet the team, get a full evaluation, and leave with clear answers about your options, your timeline, and your investment. There's no pressure to start treatment that day, and no surprise costs along the way.

Exploring braces for your child, clear aligners for yourself, or a smile transformation for the whole family? Dr. Brian and Dr. Rachel are ready to help you find your perfect fit. Come see why so many Kendallville families trust Hoagburg Orthodontics with their smiles. Our family can't wait to meet yours.