Business Details
23 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Expert Orthodontic Care for Beautiful Smiles in South Bend & Elkhart, IN
Brace Yourself Orthodontics has been dedicated to providing high-quality orthodontic care in South Bend, Elkhart, and Greater Michiana since 2003. Our practice combines advanced clinical expertise with a patient-centered approach, offering comprehensive treatments tailored to individuals of all ages. Led by board-certified orthodontists Dr. Shawn Long and Dr. Emily McCrea, our team prioritizes personalized care, utilizing cutting-edge technology and techniques to achieve optimal results. With decades of combined experience, we specialize in traditional braces, Invisalign clear aligners, early intervention therapies, and specialized appliances.Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our patients' testimonials, which consistently highlight our welcoming environment, transparent communication, and transformative outcomes. We maintain active affiliations with leading professional organizations, including the American Association of Orthodontists and the American Dental Association, ensuring our practice adheres to the highest industry standards while delivering reliable, ethical care.
Services
Braces for All Ages
Invisalign Clear Aligners
Early Orthodontic Treatment
Temporary Anchorage Devices
Radiance Clear Brackets
Forsus Fatigue Resistant Device
Herbst Appliance
Palatal Expander
Orthodontic Retention
Emergency Orthodontic Care
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- Board-certified orthodontists with decades of combined clinical expertise
- Comprehensive treatment options including braces, Invisalign, and specialized appliances
- Patient-centered care prioritizing comfort, communication, and individual needs
- Proven track record of transformative results with 20+ years of community service
- Transparent treatment planning with personalized attention at every visit
Associations and certifications
- American Dental Association
- American Association of Orthodontists
- Indiana Dental Association
- North Central Dental Society
What people say
Felt like family
Outstanding work
Self confident
Beautiful smiles
Positive encouraging environment
Services
Invisalign Clear Aligners
Invisalign treatment offers a discreet, comfortable alternative to traditional braces using custom-made, removable aligners. Our certified providers create personalized treatment plans that gradually shift teeth into optimal alignment while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Patients appreciate the convenience of removable trays for eating and cleaning, combined with advanced SmartTrack material technology that ensures effective tooth movement. This solution suits teens and adults seeking subtle orthodontic correction for various alignment issues.
Traditional Metal Braces
Modern metal braces provide efficient, cost-effective orthodontic treatment using high-grade stainless steel components. Our customized systems incorporate colored elastics for personalization while maintaining superior control over tooth movement. Patients benefit from proven results for complex cases, with enhanced comfort features that minimize irritation compared to older designs. This classic solution remains ideal for patients requiring significant alignment corrections across all age groups.
Early Orthodontic Treatment
Early intervention addresses developing bite issues and jaw growth concerns in children aged 7-9. Our phased approach corrects problems like crossbites and crowding before all permanent teeth erupt, potentially reducing future treatment complexity. Specialized appliances guide jaw development to create proper space for incoming teeth, often preventing extractions or surgical interventions later. This preventive strategy establishes foundations for long-term oral health and optimal facial development.
Radiance Clear Brackets
Radiance clear brackets offer aesthetic orthodontic treatment using sapphire-based materials that blend seamlessly with natural teeth. These stain-resistant, durable brackets provide the precision of traditional braces without visible metal components. Patients enjoy enhanced comfort from polished edges while achieving significant alignment improvements. This option suits teens and adults seeking less noticeable fixed appliances for moderate to complex orthodontic corrections.
Forsus Fatigue Resistant Device
The Forsus appliance effectively corrects overbites through continuous force application during adolescent growth phases. This fixed posterior device works with existing braces to reposition jaw alignment without external headgear. Patients benefit from improved bite relationships and facial symmetry through a low-profile system that allows normal speech and eating functions during treatment.
People
Dr. Shawn Long
Orthodontist
Dr. Shawn Long graduated top of his class from Indiana University School of Dentistry and completed advanced orthodontic training at Eastman Dental Center. With over 25 years of clinical experience since 1997, he maintains active memberships in major dental associations while prioritizing patient-centered care.
Dr. Emily McCrea
Orthodontist
Dr. Emily McCrea earned her dental degree from Indiana University and completed a master's program in orthodontics. Joining the practice in 2014, she brings specialized expertise in modern orthodontic techniques while maintaining Invisalign certification and active professional affiliations.
Questions
What orthodontic services do you offer for different age groups?
We provide comprehensive treatment options for all ages, including traditional braces for children and teens, Invisalign clear aligners for adults, and specialized appliances for early intervention cases.
Do you offer Invisalign treatment for teenagers?
Yes, we provide Invisalign Teen with compliance indicators and eruption tabs to accommodate growing smiles while maintaining the discreet, removable benefits of clear aligner therapy.
Are emergency orthodontic appointments available?
We offer emergency care for urgent orthodontic issues, with same-day consultations available to address discomfort or appliance concerns promptly.
How can I schedule my initial consultation?
Contact our South Bend or Elkhart offices directly to schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our orthodontists, including digital scanning and personalized treatment planning.
What payment options do you provide for orthodontic treatment?
We offer flexible payment plans with interest-free financing options, insurance coordination, and assistance navigating coverage details to make quality orthodontic care accessible.
