Wheat Ridge, CO Orthodontics for Adults, Teens, and Kids
Premier Orthodontic Care in Wheat Ridge, Colorado
Are you searching for exceptional orthodontic care in Wheat Ridge? Our team, led by Dr. Timothy Hardy and Dr. Cierra Randall, provides specialized orthodontic treatments for patients of all ages. Our practice combines advanced technology with personalized care to create beautiful, healthy smiles that last a lifetime.
Located just minutes from Wheat Ridge at 311 S Teller St in Lakewood, our convenient location serves residents throughout Jefferson County. We understand that choosing the right orthodontist is a significant decision for your family’s dental health, which is why we’ve created a welcoming environment where patients of all ages feel comfortable and confident.
Our team believes that a beautiful smile does more than enhance your appearance—it improves your confidence, oral health, and overall quality of life. Whether you’re considering treatment for yourself or your child, we’re here to guide you through every step of your orthodontic journey.
Why Choose Dr. Hardy as Your Wheat Ridge Orthodontist?
Dr. Timothy Hardy isn’t just any dental professional—he’s a board-certified orthodontist with specialized training and extensive experience in treating complex orthodontic issues. After earning his dental degree from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Hardy completed additional specialized training in orthodontics, focusing on correcting misaligned teeth, improving bite problems, and treating jaw irregularities.
As an active member of the American Dental Association and American Association of Orthodontists, Dr. Hardy stays at the forefront of orthodontic advances. He’s received prestigious recognitions including The Everett Shapiro Award in Orthodontics and the Dr. Harold Berk Endowed Prize Fund for Excellence in Research.
Dr. Hardy understands that financial concerns shouldn’t prevent anyone from achieving a healthy smile. That’s why our office offers flexible payment options, accepts most PPO dental insurance plans, and works with Medicaid to make quality orthodontic care accessible to all Wheat Ridge residents.
Complete Orthodontic Services for Wheat Ridge Patients
Traditional Braces and Modern Alternatives
We offer a full range of treatment options to meet your specific needs and preferences:
Traditional Metal Braces: Time-tested and highly effective for even the most complex orthodontic issues. Today’s metal braces are smaller and more comfortable than ever before.
Clear Bracket Braces: These blend with your natural tooth color for a more discreet appearance while providing the same effectiveness as traditional braces.
Lingual Braces: Hidden behind your teeth, these braces offer the ultimate in discreet treatment. No one will know you’re wearing braces unless you tell them!
Each option is custom-tailored to your specific dental needs, timeline preferences, and lifestyle considerations. During your consultation, we’ll thoroughly discuss which approach might work best for your unique situation.
Invisalign and Clear Aligner Therapy
Looking for a nearly invisible way to straighten your teeth? Dr. Hardy is proud to offer advanced clear aligner options:
Invisalign: These custom-made, removable clear aligners gradually shift your teeth into proper alignment without metal or wires. Perfect for adults with professional concerns about their appearance during treatment.
Invisalign Teen: Specially designed for teenage patients, with compliance indicators and room for growing teeth. These aligners work wonderfully while accommodating the active lifestyle of teens.
Custom Clear Aligners: For specific orthodontic situations, we may recommend personalized clear aligner systems that address your unique dental challenges.
Our digital scanning technology creates precise 3D models of your teeth, allowing for comfortable aligners and predictable results. We’ll monitor your progress throughout treatment to ensure optimal outcomes.
Specialized Services for Different Age Groups
Orthodontics for Kids
Early intervention can prevent more serious problems from developing. We recommend children have their first orthodontic evaluation around age seven, when potential issues can be identified and addressed proactively.
Our kid-friendly office and compassionate team make dental visits a positive experience. We’ll monitor your child’s development and recommend treatment only when the time is right.
Teen Orthodontics
We understand teenagers have unique concerns about appearance, comfort, and lifestyle during orthodontic treatment. Our range of discreet options—from clear braces to Invisalign Teen—helps adolescents feel confident throughout their treatment journey.
Our team works with teens to develop good habits that ensure successful treatment outcomes. We offer flexible scheduling to accommodate busy school and extracurricular schedules.
Adult Orthodontics
It’s never too late to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted! Many of our Wheat Ridge patients are adults seeking orthodontic treatment for the first time or revisiting treatment after changes in their dental alignment.
We offer discreet treatment options that fit seamlessly into professional and personal lives. Beyond cosmetic improvements, our adult orthodontic services address functional issues that can impact overall oral health.
Advanced Technology for Better Results
We invest in cutting-edge technology to enhance your treatment experience:
3D Digital Scanning: We’ve eliminated the need for messy, uncomfortable impressions. Our digital scanners create precise models of your teeth in minutes.
Custom SmartWire Technology: For lingual braces patients, we use programmable wires that work behind your teeth to create your ideal smile with gentle, continuous force.
Computer-Assisted Treatment Planning: Advanced software allows us to visualize your entire treatment journey and make adjustments for optimal results.
These technological advances mean fewer appointments, shorter treatment times, and more predictable outcomes for our Wheat Ridge patients.
The Dr. Hardy Experience
What to Expect at Your First Visit
Your initial consultation includes:
- A warm welcome from our friendly team
- Comprehensive examination of your teeth and jaw structure
- Discussion of your smile goals and concerns
- Digital X-rays and scans as needed
- Personalized treatment recommendations
- Clear explanation of the timeline and investment
- Opportunity to ask questions and explore options
We never rush this important first step—we take the time to understand your needs and create a treatment plan that works for you.
Our Commitment to the Wheat Ridge Community
Dr. Hardy has been serving the greater Lakewood and Wheat Ridge area for years, creating over 6,000 beautiful smiles since 2016. We’re proud to be an active part of this vibrant community.
Dr. Hardy and Dr. Randall participate in community outreach programs like Smiles Change Lives and the Colorado Orthodontic Foundation, helping provide orthodontic care to those in need.
Our practice is designed with patient comfort in mind—from our welcoming reception area to our state-of-the-art treatment rooms. We schedule appointments efficiently to respect your time while ensuring each patient receives personalized attention.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontic Treatment
How do I know if I need orthodontic treatment?
Signs that you might benefit from orthodontic care include crowded or overlapping teeth, gaps between teeth, difficulty chewing or biting, jaw pain, and feeling self-conscious about your smile. During your consultation, we’ll conduct a thorough assessment to determine if treatment would be beneficial for your specific situation. Even minor alignment issues can impact your oral health over time, so it’s worth having an evaluation if you have concerns.
What’s the difference between seeing an orthodontist versus a general dentist for braces?
While some general dentists offer basic orthodontic treatments, orthodontists like Dr. Hardy and Dr. Randall have completed 2-3 years of specialized education beyond dental school focused exclusively on correcting bite issues and straightening teeth. This specialized training means they’re equipped to handle complex cases and provide more treatment options. Board-certified orthodontists stay current with the latest advances through continuing education and professional associations, ensuring you receive the most effective care possible.
How long does orthodontic treatment typically take?
Treatment duration varies significantly depending on your specific needs. Simple alignment issues might be resolved in 6-12 months, while more complex cases typically take 18-24 months. During your consultation, we’ll provide a personalized estimate based on your individual situation. Factors that influence treatment time include the severity of your orthodontic issues, the type of treatment selected, and your compliance with treatment protocols.
Does orthodontic treatment hurt?
Modern orthodontic techniques have significantly reduced discomfort during treatment. You may experience some soreness for a few days after adjustments or when switching to new aligners, but this is typically mild and temporary. Our team provides detailed guidance on managing any discomfort with over-the-counter pain relievers and dental wax for occasional irritation. Most patients adjust quickly to their appliances and find the minor discomfort well worth the lifetime benefits of a healthy, beautiful smile.
How much does orthodontic treatment cost in Wheat Ridge?
Treatment costs vary based on the complexity of your case and the treatment method selected. We’re committed to making quality care affordable through flexible payment plans, insurance coordination, and financing options. We accept most PPO dental insurance plans and Medicaid. During your consultation, our treatment coordinator will provide a clear breakdown of costs and payment options so there are never any surprises. We believe financial concerns shouldn’t prevent anyone from achieving a healthy smile.
Take the First Step Toward Your New Smile Today
Ready to transform your smile with top-quality orthodontic care? The Dr. Hardy team is eager to help you achieve the healthy, beautiful smile you deserve.
📍 Visit Us: 311 S Teller St, Lakewood, CO 80226
📞 Call: 303-233-2445
📩 Or Request an Appointment Online Today
Don’t let orthodontic concerns hold you back any longer. Our Wheat Ridge patients consistently tell us that their only regret is not starting treatment sooner. Contact Dr. Hardy today to schedule your complimentary consultation and discover how we can help you smile with confidence!
Image source: www.ci.wheatridge.co.us
The City of Wheat Ridge is a home rule municipality located in Jefferson County, Colorado, United States. Wheat Ridge is located immediately west of Denver and is a part of the Denver–Aurora–Lakewood, CO Metropolitan Statistical Area. The Wheat Ridge Municipal Center is approximately 5 miles (8 km) west-northwest of the Colorado State Capitol in Denver. The city had a population of 30,166 as of the 2010 Census.
Founded in 1902, incorporated in 1905, and named for C. L. Wellington (an employee of the Colorado and Southern Railroad). U.S. Supreme Court Justice Byron White lived in Wellington as a child. He made a point of returning to Wellington on an annual basis for his high school reunions up until 1999 when his physical health worsened significantly.
In the early 20th century, especially during the years of prohibition, Wellington doubled as a place to drink and a service town for drivers commuting from Cheyenne to Fort Collins and vice versa. The town, more or less, sustained a population of 500 throughout the century which proceeded to build homes, restaurants, churches, and various other elements of small town life.
In 2000, woolly mammoth remains were discovered by a construction crew while digging home foundations. Colorado State University sent a team to carefully excavate and preserve the bones of the extinct animals; Wellington residents watched attentively. Unfortunately, upon hoisting the remains out of the excavation site the tusks crumbled inside of the protective forms that were previously built around them. Rear molars and parts of the skull of the mammoth are housed at CSU after being donated by the Burrus family (the developers of the project), who also kept molars of the animal. The subdivision where the bones were found named one of its streets in remembrance of the excitement. Though population remained steady throughout the 20th century, Wellington experienced moderate growth in the 1990s and 2000s, rendering it a sort of bedroom community for the city of Fort Collins, which lies 10 miles to the South. (Source: Wikipedia)
