Why January is a Great Time to see an Orthodontist in Dallas
/
As the new year begins and routines settle back in, January is a smart time to focus on long-term oral health. If you’re searching for an orthodontist, the start of the year is ideal for scheduling a consultation, understanding your refreshed insurance benefits, and creating a clear plan for the months ahead.
At Ohlenforst Carney Orthodontics, board-certified orthodontist Dr. Lauren Carney and our team love welcoming new patients in January and helping families start the year with confidence and a plan for a healthier smile.
1. Why January Is a Great Time to See an Orthodontist
Start with fresh insurance benefits and a clean slate
Many dental insurance plans reset on January 1, which makes January a great time to:
Confirm your updated orthodontic benefits for the new year
Understand any new deductibles, maximums, or coverage changes
Build a payment plan that aligns with your benefits from day one
If you’re unsure how your coverage works, our team walks you through it step by step. You can also visit our Financial Info page for an overview of what to expect.
Plan ahead for school, sports, and spring events
January appointments make it easier to map out treatment around a busy calendar. For kids and teens, starting early in the year can help you:
Schedule a free new patient exam before spring activities ramp up
Avoid rushing around spring break and end-of-year events
Build consistent habits (brushing, flossing, aligner wear) while routines are steady
If you’re exploring options for a child or teen, our Orthodontics for Children and Orthodontics for Adolescents pages explain what treatment can look like at different ages.
Make “this is my year” a real plan
January is when many adults finally decide to do something about a smile they’ve been thinking about for years. If you’ve been waiting because you’re busy, unsure where to start, or want a discreet option, a consultation now gives you a clear timeline and next steps.
Our Orthodontics for Adults page is a great starting point if you want to understand options and what the process looks like.
2. What to Look For in an Orthodontist
Once you’re ready to begin, choosing the right orthodontist matters. Here are a few key things to prioritize.
Specialized, board-certified training
The American Association of Orthodontists explains that orthodontists complete additional specialty training beyond dental school, focused specifically on aligning teeth and jaws. That advanced training matters when you’re trusting someone with your bite, your smile, and long-term oral health.
Dr. Carney is a residency-trained, board-certified orthodontist. You can learn more about her background and approach on the Meet Dr. Carney page.
Experience with kids, teens, and adults
A strong orthodontic home for your family can treat everyone under one roof, including:
Younger children who may benefit from monitoring or early intervention
Teens ready for braces or clear aligners
Adults starting for the first time or improving past orthodontic work
Modern treatment options that fit your life
A great orthodontist in Dallas should offer options that match different goals, budgets, and lifestyles, including:
Traditional metal braces
Clear or ceramic braces
Clear aligners (including 3M Clarity Aligners and Invisalign)
Our Types of Braces page breaks down metal vs ceramic braces, and our Clear Aligners and Invisalign page explains aligner options in more detail.
A comfortable, patient-focused experience
You’ll see your orthodontic team regularly during treatment, so the day-to-day experience matters. Look for:
A friendly, welcoming environment
Clear explanations and honest recommendations
An office where kids, teens, and adults all feel comfortable
Clear costs and flexible payment options
Orthodontic treatment is an investment, and your orthodontic team should make the financial side straightforward. A good office will walk you through:
What your insurance may cover
A clear, written fee estimate
Payment options that fit your budget
We outline this on our Financial Info page and review it again in person during your visit.
3. How Orthodontic Treatment Helps Beyond a Straighter Smile
Orthodontic care isn’t only about appearance. Well-aligned teeth and jaws can also:
Make brushing and flossing easier
Improve chewing and speech
Reduce uneven wear on teeth
Lower the risk of certain dental issues over time
If you’re wondering whether treatment would truly make a difference for you or your child, a no-pressure exam with an orthodontist in Dallas is the best way to find out.
4. Why Families Choose Ohlenforst Carney Orthodontics
When patients choose Ohlenforst Carney Orthodontics, they’re choosing a locally rooted practice focused entirely on orthodontics and patient comfort. Families often tell us they appreciate:
A board-certified orthodontist who truly listens
A conservative, thoughtful approach to timing and treatment
Options including braces, ceramic braces, and clear aligners
A warm, upbeat office atmosphere
A convenient North Dallas location at Preston Road and Forest Lane
You can find directions and office details on our Hours & Location page.
5. How to Get Started with an Orthodontist This January
Starting is simple:
Schedule a free exam through our New Patients page or call 972-503-0400.
Tell us your goals—healthier bite, more confident smile, or both.
Review your personalized plan with Dr. Carney, including options, timing, and cost.
Choose your start date and feel good knowing you have a clear plan for the year.
January is a great time to take the first step with an orthodontist in Dallas and start the year with momentum toward a healthier, more confident smile!