Business Details
Your Trusted Orthodontic Care in Peters Twp., PA
Schratz Orthodontics has been dedicated to transforming smiles through advanced orthodontic care for over 25 years. Our practice combines cutting-edge technology with personalized treatment plans to address a wide range of orthodontic needs, from early interceptive care to comprehensive solutions for adults. Led by Dr. Walter Schratz, a board-certified orthodontist with extensive experience in dentofacial orthopedics, our team prioritizes patient comfort and long-term oral health. We utilize innovative techniques such as self-ligating brackets, clear aligners, and digital radiography to ensure efficient and effective treatment. Our commitment to continuing education ensures that our staff remains at the forefront of orthodontic advancements.Patients consistently highlight our friendly, professional environment and the transformative results achieved through our care. Whether addressing malocclusions, bite issues, or aesthetic concerns, we focus on creating functional, beautiful smiles that boost confidence. Our practice serves Peters Twp., Mon Valley, PA, and St. Clairsville, OH, with a family-friendly approach that makes every patient feel valued. We emphasize clear communication, helping families navigate treatment options and insurance processes with ease. With decades of combined experience, our team remains dedicated to excellence in orthodontic care.
Services
Interceptive Treatment
Comprehensive Treatment
TMD Therapy
Clear Braces
Invisalign
Clear Correct
Retention Period
Orthodontic Consultation
Digital Radiography
Splint Therapy
Highlights and features
- Over 25 years of experience in orthodontic care
- Board-certified orthodontist with dentofacial orthopedics expertise
- Personalized treatment plans for all ages
- Advanced technology including digital radiography and clear aligners
- Family-friendly, patient-centered approach
Associations and certifications
- American Board of Orthodontics
- Pennsylvania Association of Orthodontics
- Western Pennsylvania Society of Orthodontics
What people say
Professional, kind, accommodating staff
Comfortable experience
Great results
Wonderful staff
Stress-free environment
Services
Interceptive Treatment
Interceptive treatment addresses orthodontic issues in children by leveraging facial growth and tooth eruption. This approach reduces problem severity and shortens future treatment time. Ideal for correcting harmful oral habits, crossbites, and jaw alignment issues before full orthodontic treatment.
Comprehensive Treatment
Comprehensive treatment corrects malocclusions in both upper and lower arches, focusing on proper tooth alignment and bite improvement. Includes a 12-month retention period with retainer use, utilizing advanced options like self-ligating brackets and clear aligners for optimal results.
TMD Therapy
TMD therapy addresses temporomandibular joint disorders through customized splint therapy, dietary guidance, and physical treatments. A tailored exam identifies pain sources, with adjustments made over 8-10 months to alleviate symptoms like jaw popping and headaches.
Clear Braces
Clear braces offer a subtle orthodontic solution with translucent brackets that blend with teeth. Featuring stain-resistant materials and rounded edges for comfort, they provide aesthetic appeal while maintaining the effectiveness of traditional braces with customizable band colors.
Invisalign
Invisalign uses virtually invisible trays to straighten teeth without brackets or wires. Patients wear aligners 22-24 hours daily, with treatment typically lasting 18-22 months. Removable for eating and cleaning, they offer a convenient alternative to traditional orthodontic appliances.
People
Walter Schratz
Orthodontist
Dr. Walter Schratz has provided orthodontic care for over 25 years, combining advanced techniques with personalized attention. A board-certified orthodontist, he specializes in dentofacial orthopedics and completed residency at Case Western Reserve University. He actively supports continuing education for his team.
Alyson Schratz
Practice Manager
Alyson Schratz manages daily operations at Schratz Orthodontics, focusing on scheduling, insurance, and patient comfort. With organizational expertise since 2016, she ensures a stress-free experience while maintaining efficient practice management.
Questions
What is the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?
Orthodontists complete 2-3 years of specialized residency beyond dental school, focusing on tooth movement and facial development. They address complex alignment issues requiring advanced expertise.
Should I get braces from a dentist or orthodontist?
For complex cases, consult a board-certified orthodontist. Dentists may handle basic alignment but lack specialized training for advanced malocclusion corrections.
What are the classes of malocclusion?
Class I involves crowding/spacing, Class II features protruding upper teeth (buck teeth), and Class III shows lower teeth extending beyond upper teeth (underbite).
Does dental insurance cover braces?
Most plans cover children's orthodontics up to age 18 but limit adult coverage. Check for waiting periods and consider medical plans for surgical procedures.
When will I see changes in my teeth?
Most patients notice visible improvements within 2-6 weeks of starting treatment, with full results achieved over 18-22 months depending on complexity.
Can I get braces on just top or bottom teeth?
Treatment depends on bite alignment. While some cases allow single-arch treatment, comprehensive plans often require full arch correction for optimal functionality and aesthetics.
