Business Details
31 Years
experience
Your Trusted Orthodontist in Meridian, MS
At Hodge Orthodontics, we have dedicated ourselves to delivering exceptional orthodontic care to East Mississippi residents since 1995. Our practice combines advanced technology with personalized treatment plans to address diverse orthodontic needs across all age groups. Dr. John Hodge, a board-certified orthodontist with specialized training from the University of Oklahoma, leads our team in utilizing state-of-the-art equipment including 3D X-ray imaging and innovative aligner systems. We emphasize early intervention to prevent complex dental issues while offering comprehensive solutions for adolescents and adults.Our commitment to continuous education ensures we remain at the forefront of orthodontic advancements, maintaining memberships in prestigious organizations like the American Association of Orthodontists. With multiple locations and flexible scheduling options, we prioritize patient comfort through efficient service and transparent communication about treatment options and costs. Our practice consistently achieves high patient satisfaction through proven methodologies and a focus on creating lasting, healthy smiles.
Services
Early Orthodontic Treatment
Braces for Adolescents
Clear Aligners
3D X-ray Imaging
Adult Orthodontics
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of combined orthodontic experience with advanced technology
- Our practice specializes in early interceptive treatment for optimal development
- We provide customized solutions for children, teens, and adults
- Our team maintains active memberships in leading dental organizations
- We guarantee patient satisfaction with personalized care plans
Associations and certifications
- American Association of Orthodontists
- Southern Association of Orthodontists
- American Dental Association
- Mississippi Dental Association
What people say
Spectacular service
No long wait time
Professional and friendly
Great experience
Explained treatment clearly
Services
Early Orthodontic Treatment
Our early intervention program addresses orthodontic issues in children aged 7-10 using specialized appliances. This phase prevents severe problems by guiding jaw development and creating space for permanent teeth. The treatment reduces future complexity while improving facial aesthetics and bite function through customized care plans.
3M Clarity Aligners
These nearly invisible aligners straighten teeth without traditional braces using custom-fitted trays. The system combines advanced materials with digital tracking for precise tooth movement. Patients benefit from removable appliances that maintain oral hygiene while achieving significant alignment improvements through sequential tray changes.
Carestream 3D X-ray
Our advanced imaging system provides comprehensive 3D views of dental structures with minimal radiation exposure. The technology enables precise diagnosis of complex orthodontic issues and accurate treatment planning. Real-time imaging supports better visualization of tooth positions and jaw relationships for optimal outcomes.
Adolescent Braces
Traditional and ceramic braces for teenagers address alignment issues during critical growth phases. We offer metal and clear bracket options with specialized care for active lifestyles. The treatment combines proven orthodontic techniques with modern materials for efficient tooth movement and aesthetic considerations.
Adult Orthodontic Solutions
Customized treatment plans address adult orthodontic needs while considering existing dental work and oral health. We offer discreet options including lingual braces and clear aligners alongside traditional systems. The program focuses on improving both aesthetics and functional bite relationships for long-term oral health.
People
Dr. John J. Hodge
Orthodontist
Board-certified orthodontist with 30+ years of experience, holding degrees from University of Mississippi and University of Oklahoma. Active member of major dental associations, specializing in comprehensive orthodontic care for all ages.
Gina Dunn
Office Manager
Experienced dental office manager coordinating patient care and practice operations with 15 years in orthodontic administration. Ensures smooth patient experiences through efficient scheduling and treatment coordination.
Lisa Shelton
Insurance Coordinator
Dental insurance specialist with expertise in maximizing patient benefits and navigating orthodontic coverage options. Provides clear financial guidance to support accessible treatment for families.
Kim Vick
Clinical Coordinator
Experienced clinical coordinator managing patient treatment timelines and ensuring continuity of care. Maintains high standards of clinical documentation and patient communication throughout the orthodontic process.
Kasey Owen
New Patient Coordinator
Specialist in welcoming new patients and guiding them through initial consultations. Focuses on patient education and creating comfortable experiences for first-time orthodontic visitors.
Questions
Why choose an orthodontic specialist over a general dentist for braces?
Orthodontic specialists have 2-3 years of additional training focused exclusively on tooth movement and facial development, ensuring optimal long-term results.
What is the ideal age for orthodontic screening?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends initial screening at age 7 when permanent teeth begin erupting, allowing early detection of potential issues.
Can adults benefit from orthodontic treatment?
Yes, 25% of our patients are adults. Modern options like clear aligners and discreet braces make treatment convenient and effective at any age.
How long does orthodontic treatment typically last?
Treatment duration varies by case complexity, ranging from 12-30 months with an average of 22 months for comprehensive cases using traditional braces.
Are there food restrictions with braces?
Yes, we recommend avoiding hard, sticky, and crunchy foods that could damage appliances. We provide detailed dietary guidelines during treatment planning.
How often are orthodontic appointments needed?
Most patients require adjustments every 5-10 weeks, with more frequent monitoring only required for specific treatment phases or complex cases.
