Business Details
23 Years
experience
Your Trusted Orthodontist in LaVale, MD
At Allegany Orthodontics, we pride ourselves on delivering personalized orthodontic care to patients of all ages across Western Maryland. With three convenient locations in LaVale, McCoole, and Oakland, our practice combines advanced technology with compassionate service to create healthy, functional smiles. Our team of specialists, including Dr. Jim Snodgrass and Dr. Valerie Ryan, brings decades of combined experience in orthodontics, utilizing state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and treatment methods. We offer comprehensive solutions ranging from traditional braces to clear aligners, tailored to meet individual needs while prioritizing patient comfort.Our commitment to excellence extends to flexible scheduling options, transparent financial planning, and a welcoming environment that makes every visit stress-free. By staying current with industry advancements through continuing education, we ensure our patients receive the most effective, efficient care available. Our practice philosophy centers on building long-term relationships through trust, expertise, and a genuine dedication to improving our patients' oral health and confidence.
Services
Braces
Clear Aligners
Early Treatment
Adult Orthodontics
Emergency Care
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- Our orthodontists have decades of combined experience in advanced treatment methods
- Three convenient locations serving LaVale, McCoole, and Oakland communities
- We utilize digital diagnostics and modern appliances for precise, comfortable treatment
- Flexible scheduling options including after-school appointments for families
- Interest-free payment plans and expert insurance coordination available
What people say
Professional and kind staff
Stress-free scheduling options
Comfortable office environment
Timely and efficient service
Experienced orthodontic specialists
Services
Braces
We offer traditional metal, ceramic, and gold braces for effective teeth alignment. Our customized treatment plans consider each patient's unique dental structure and aesthetic preferences. With regular adjustments every 4-6 weeks, our braces gradually correct misalignments while maintaining patient comfort through modern, less intrusive techniques.
Clear Aligners
Our 3M ClarityAligners provide a discreet alternative to traditional braces using custom-made, removable aligners. This treatment option suits patients with mild to moderate alignment issues who prefer aesthetic solutions that allow normal eating and oral hygiene routines while achieving gradual tooth movement.
Early Treatment
We provide specialized orthodontic intervention for children aged 6-10 using space maintainers and growth modification appliances. Early treatment addresses developmental issues like overbites and underbites, potentially reducing future treatment duration and preventing permanent tooth extractions through timely skeletal growth modification.
Adult Orthodontics
Our practice offers comprehensive treatment solutions for adults seeking improved dental alignment and oral health. We address age-specific concerns including gum recession and existing dental work while providing aesthetic options like ceramic braces and clear aligners that fit professional lifestyles and social expectations.
Emergency Care
We provide prompt assistance for urgent orthodontic issues including broken brackets, wire irritation, and appliance discomfort. Our team offers clear guidance for temporary relief and schedules emergency appointments to maintain treatment progress while ensuring patient comfort during unexpected situations.
People
Dr. Jim Snodgrass
Orthodontist
Dr. Snodgrass earned his dental degree from Medical College of Virginia in 1985 and completed a two-year orthodontic residency at State University of Buffalo. With over 30 years of experience, he specializes in comprehensive orthodontic treatment for all ages and maintains active memberships in major orthodontic associations.
Dr. Valerie Ryan
Orthodontist
A native of Cumberland, MD, Dr. Ryan received her dental degree from University of Maryland and completed her orthodontic residency at SUNY Buffalo. She specializes in modern orthodontic techniques including Invisalign and lingual systems, bringing expertise in treating both children and adults.
Michelle Snyder
QDA, QOA
As a certified orthodontic assistant with extensive experience, Michelle contributes to patient care through clinical support and treatment coordination. Her expertise ensures smooth treatment processes and patient comfort throughout the orthodontic journey.
Michelle Boggs
Office Admin
Michelle manages administrative operations with over a decade of experience in orthodontic practice management. Her organizational skills ensure efficient scheduling, insurance coordination, and patient communication for a seamless treatment experience.
Tonya Thomas
QDA
Tonya provides clinical support as a certified orthodontic assistant, focusing on patient education and treatment preparation. Her attention to detail contributes to accurate record-keeping and patient comfort during orthodontic procedures.
Questions
When should my child first see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial evaluation by age 7 to identify potential issues and determine if early intervention would be beneficial.
Are orthodontists different from dentists?
All orthodontists are dentists with additional 2-3 years of specialized training in orthodontics, focusing exclusively on teeth alignment and jaw development.
Do braces cause discomfort?
While some temporary soreness may occur after adjustments, our modern techniques minimize discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers and oral anesthetics typically manage any brief discomfort effectively.
What payment options do you offer?
We provide interest-free payment plans, accept major credit cards, and work with CareCredit. Our team also processes insurance claims for orthodontic coverage maximization.
Can adults benefit from orthodontic treatment?
Yes, over 25% of our patients are adults. We offer discreet options like clear aligners and ceramic braces to address alignment issues while accommodating professional and lifestyle needs.
How often are adjustment appointments needed?
Most patients require adjustments every 5-8 weeks, with more frequent visits during initial treatment phases and less frequent appointments as treatment progresses.
