New Year, New Smile: Why January 2026 is Perfect for Starting Braces or Clear Aligners

The ball has dropped, the resolutions are made, and you’re ready to make 2026 your best year yet. But while everyone else is signing up for gym memberships and promising to eat more vegetables, there’s one transformation that often gets overlooked—the kind that happens when you finally invest in that straighter, healthier smile you’ve always wanted.

If you’ve been thinking about braces or clear aligners but haven’t pulled the trigger, January 2026 is calling your name. Whether you’re a parent considering treatment for your child, a teen ready to level up your confidence, or an adult who’s finally prioritizing yourself, right now is the absolute best time to start your orthodontic journey.

Here’s why January isn’t just a good time to begin—it’s the perfect time.

Your Orthodontic Insurance Benefits Just Reset

Let’s start with the most practical reason to schedule your consultation in January: money.

Your orthodontic insurance benefits reset on January 1st—and most people have no idea what this actually means for their wallet.

What This Means for Your Family

For kids and teens: If your child needs braces, starting in January means you have the entire year to use your insurance benefits strategically. Orthodontic treatment typically spans 12-24 months, so beginning in January allows you to maximize benefits across multiple calendar years if needed.

For adults: Many people assume orthodontic coverage is only for children—not true. Check your plan. If you have orthodontic benefits, you can use them at any age. Starting in January means you won’t compete with the end-of-year rush when everyone scrambles to use their benefits before they expire.

Pro tip: Call NLV Orthodontics at (702) 476-2444 and our team will verify your insurance benefits for free. We’ll tell you exactly what’s covered, what your out-of-pocket costs will be, and help you create a payment plan that works for your budget.

Flexible Financing is Available

Don’t have orthodontic insurance? That’s completely okay. At NLV Orthodontics, we accept most major insurance plans and offer flexible financing options so affordability never stands between you and a confident smile.

Starting your treatment in January gives you the whole year to budget and plan, rather than feeling rushed at year’s end.

The Psychology of Fresh Starts: January Momentum is Real

There’s legitimate science behind why New Year’s resolutions work for some people—and it has everything to do with what researchers call the “Fresh Start Effect.”

Why Your Brain Loves January

When you cross into a new year, your brain creates a psychological boundary between your “past self” and your “future self.” This temporal landmark makes it easier to:

• Distance yourself from past imperfections (like putting off orthodontic treatment)
• Visualize a better future version of yourself
• Commit to meaningful change
• Follow through on goals that felt too big before

Translation: If you’ve been procrastinating on getting braces or clear aligners, January 2026 gives you the mental reset to finally say “yes” to yourself or your child.

Building Momentum Throughout the Year

Here’s what happens when you start orthodontic treatment in January:

Month 1-3: You’re adapting to your new braces or aligners. The newness keeps you motivated and consistent with care.

Month 4-6: You’re seeing early changes. Your teeth are moving, your confidence is growing, and you’re glad you started.

Month 7-12: You’re in a routine. Treatment feels normal, results are visible, and you’re approaching the finish line with excitement.

Compare this to starting in November or December, when you’re squeezed between holidays, travel, and year-end chaos. January gives you a clean runway to focus on your smile transformation without competing priorities.

Creating Family Habits

For parents, starting your child’s orthodontic journey in January creates a family health ritual. When the whole family sees braces or aligners as part of the New Year health plan (alongside eating better and exercising), kids are more likely to embrace treatment positively rather than resist it.

More Appointment Availability (Seriously)

Here’s something most people don’t realize: orthodontic offices are significantly less crowded in January than during the end-of-year rush or back-to-school season.

Why This Matters for You

Flexible scheduling: More availability means you can choose appointment times that actually work with your schedule—early mornings before work, weekday afternoons, or Saturdays. No more taking whatever slot is left.

Longer consultations: When the schedule isn’t jammed, your orthodontist has more time to answer all your questions, explain treatment options thoroughly, and make sure you feel completely informed and comfortable before starting.

Faster treatment start: Want to move quickly from consultation to getting braces on? January availability means less waiting. You can often complete your consultation and start treatment within 1-2 weeks rather than waiting a month or more.

Better attention: Let’s be honest—when offices aren’t slammed with patients, you get more personalized attention. Your orthodontist and team can focus on making your experience exceptional rather than rushing to the next appointment.

At NLV Orthodontics, we’re open Monday through Saturday with flexible hours designed to accommodate busy Las Vegas families. Starting in January means you get first pick of appointment times.

Perfect Timing for Students and Teens

If you’re a parent of a teen or a student yourself, January is strategically brilliant for starting orthodontic treatment.

The School Calendar Advantage

Starting between semesters: January falls right after winter break, which means teens can:

• Get braces put on during a less stressful academic period
• Adjust to the feeling of braces before major tests or projects
• Avoid missing school for long appointments during critical times like finals

Finish before major milestones: Most orthodontic treatment takes 12-24 months. Starting in January 2026 means finishing in early-to-mid 2027 or 2028—potentially before:

• Senior year school photos
• Prom and formal dances
• High school graduation
• College applications and interviews
• Transition to college or career

Sports and activities: Winter in Las Vegas is when many students are between sports seasons or have lighter activity schedules. This makes it easier to adapt to braces without worrying about mouthguards, instruments (for band students), or performance concerns.

The Confidence Timeline

Here’s what happens when a teen starts braces or clear aligners in January:

Months 1-4: Initial adjustment period. By spring break, they’re comfortable with their treatment and any initial self-consciousness has faded.

Months 5-8: Visible progress. Teeth are noticeably straighter. Confidence is building. They’re grateful they started.

Months 9-12+: Treatment is a normal part of life. They’re excited about the approaching finish line and the permanent smile transformation ahead.

Starting in January means teens have months to adjust and see progress before the next school year begins—and they enter that new school year with improved confidence, not just getting used to braces.

Adults: It’s Your Time

Let’s address the elephant in the room: “I’m too old for braces.”

No. No, you’re not.

The Adult Orthodontics Reality

More adults than ever are getting orthodontic treatment—and they’re not just getting braces, they’re getting clear aligners, ceramic braces, and other discreet options designed specifically for professional and social lifestyles.

Why January is perfect for adults:

You’re already in goal-setting mode: When you’re making professional and personal resolutions for the year, adding “invest in my smile” fits right in. It’s not a random decision—it’s part of your self-improvement plan.

Work calendar is reset: Most professionals have lighter schedules in January compared to Q4’s chaos or summer vacation season. It’s easier to carve out time for consultations and appointments when you’re not juggling year-end deadlines or holiday commitments.

Life is already changing: January is when many adults make big life changes—new jobs, moving, relationship changes, health improvements. Adding orthodontic treatment to this list of positive changes creates momentum and shows you’re serious about investing in yourself.

Why Adults Choose Orthodontic Treatment

The reasons adults seek braces or clear aligners go beyond vanity:

Oral health: Crooked or crowded teeth are harder to clean, leading to higher cavity risk, gum disease, and even tooth loss. Straight teeth are healthier teeth.

Bite issues: Misaligned bites (overbites, underbites, crossbites) can cause jaw pain, headaches, tooth wear, and even TMJ disorders. Orthodontics corrects these functional problems.

Career confidence: Whether you’re in sales, management, public speaking, or client-facing roles, your smile affects how others perceive you. A confident smile can literally impact your professional success.

Long-overdue self-care: Many adults spent their childhood and young adult years taking care of everyone else—kids, parents, partners. Orthodontic treatment in your 30s, 40s, 50s, or beyond is finally prioritizing yourself.

Dating and relationships: Single adults often cite confidence in dating as a major motivator. Committed adults want to feel good about themselves and show their partner they care about self-improvement.

At NLV Orthodontics, we treat patients of all ages with the same care, respect, and modern technology. You deserve to feel confident in your smile, no matter when you decide to get there.

Clear Aligners vs. Traditional Braces: Which is Right for You?

One of the most common questions we hear: “Should I get braces or clear aligners?”

The honest answer: it depends on your specific orthodontic needs, lifestyle, and preferences. Here’s the breakdown.

Traditional Metal Braces

Best for:

• Complex orthodontic cases (severe crowding, significant bite issues)
• Younger patients who may not be responsible enough for removable aligners
• Budget-conscious families (often less expensive than clear aligners)
• Patients who want the most reliable, time-tested treatment

How they work: Brackets are bonded to your teeth and connected by wires. Your orthodontist adjusts the wires periodically to gradually move your teeth into the correct position.

Pros:

• Works for nearly any orthodontic issue
• No risk of losing aligners or forgetting to wear them
• Often faster treatment time for complex cases
• Lower cost option

Considerations:

• Visible on your teeth
• Requires dietary adjustments (no sticky or hard foods)
• Brushing and flossing require extra care
• Monthly adjustment appointments needed

Clear Aligners (Invisalign®)

Best for:

• Mild to moderate orthodontic cases
• Adults and teens who prioritize discretion
• Active lifestyles (sports, performing arts, professional settings)
• Patients who want flexibility

How they work: A series of custom, clear plastic trays gradually shift your teeth. You switch to a new set of aligners every 1-2 weeks and wear them 20-22 hours per day.

Pros:

• Nearly invisible
• Removable for eating and brushing
• No dietary restrictions
• Fewer in-office visits
• Comfortable (no brackets or wires)

Considerations:

• Requires discipline to wear 20-22 hours daily
• Not ideal for very complex cases
• Aligners can be lost or damaged
• Typically higher cost

Ceramic/Clear Braces

The middle ground: Ceramic braces work exactly like traditional metal braces but use tooth-colored or clear brackets that blend with your teeth. They offer the reliability of braces with a more discreet appearance—perfect for image-conscious teens and adults who need the effectiveness of traditional braces.

How to Decide

The best way to choose? Schedule a free consultation at NLV Orthodontics.

During your consultation, we’ll:

1. Examine your teeth and bite
2. Take X-rays and photos
3. Discuss your goals and lifestyle
4. Explain which treatment options will work for your case
5. Review costs, insurance coverage, and payment plans
6. Answer all your questions

There’s no pressure, no obligation—just expert guidance to help you make the best choice for your smile.

What to Expect: Your First Visit at NLV Orthodontics

If you’ve never been to an orthodontist or it’s been years since your last visit, here’s exactly what happens during your initial consultation (no surprises, no pressure).

The Complete Orthodontic Consultation

1. Welcome and Paperwork (10-15 minutes) When you arrive, our friendly front desk team will:

• Greet you warmly (we really do treat you like family here)
• Review any new patient forms you completed online
• Verify your insurance benefits
• Answer initial questions about the process

2. Clinical Examination (15-20 minutes) Your orthodontist will:

• Examine your teeth, gums, and bite alignment
• Check for crowding, spacing, and jaw positioning
• Assess any existing dental work
• Look for signs of tooth wear, grinding, or jaw issues
• Evaluate facial symmetry and profile

3. Diagnostic Records (10-15 minutes) If needed, we’ll take:

• Digital X-rays (shows tooth roots, jaw bone, and alignment)
• Photographs (face and teeth from multiple angles)
• 3D digital scans (replaces uncomfortable traditional impressions)

These records help us create your custom treatment plan.

4. Treatment Discussion (20-30 minutes) This is where we explain:

• What orthodontic issues you have (in plain English, no jargon)
• Which treatment options will work for you (braces, clear aligners, etc.)
• How long treatment will take
• What the process looks like step-by-step
• Estimated costs and insurance coverage
• Payment plan options

You’ll have plenty of time to ask questions—and we encourage it. This is your smile, and you should feel completely informed and comfortable with your decision.

5. Scheduling (If You’re Ready) If you decide to move forward:

• We’ll schedule your first treatment appointment
• Provide written treatment plan and financial agreement
• Give you care instructions to review
• Answer any final questions

Total consultation time: Plan for 60-90 minutes. We never rush—your comfort and understanding are our priorities.

No-Pressure Environment

Here’s what NLV Orthodontics doesn’t do:

• Pressure you to start treatment immediately
• Make you feel bad about your teeth
• Hide costs or add surprise fees
• Rush you through appointments

Here’s what we do:

• Educate you thoroughly
• Respect your timeline and budget
• Treat you with kindness and professionalism
• Support you throughout your entire journey

You’re welcome to take time to think about your decision, discuss with family, review your budget, or get a second opinion. We’ll be here when you’re ready.

The Investment: Making Orthodontic Treatment Affordable

Let’s talk money. We know cost is often the biggest factor in whether families and adults move forward with orthodontic treatment.

Understanding Orthodontic Costs

Orthodontic treatment is an investment with costs that vary based on:

• Type of treatment (traditional braces, clear aligners, ceramic braces)
• Complexity of your case
• Length of treatment
• Your location

Making Treatment Affordable at NLV Orthodontics

Insurance: We accept most major insurance plans including MetLife, Delta Dental, Aetna, Guardian, Humana, and many others. Most plans cover a portion of orthodontic treatment.

Payment Plans: We offer flexible, interest-free financing options with affordable monthly payments. Many families pay less per month for orthodontic treatment than they spend on streaming services.

No Hidden Fees: You’ll receive a complete cost breakdown upfront—no surprises, no games. We believe in transparent pricing so you can make informed decisions.

Family Discounts: Multiple family members getting treatment? Ask about our multi-patient discounts.

Free Consultations: Your initial consultation, exam, and treatment planning are completely free. You’ll know your costs before committing to anything.

The True Cost of NOT Getting Treatment

Consider what happens when orthodontic issues go untreated:

Health consequences:

• $$$$ = Potential tooth loss requiring implants or bridges

Confidence costs:

• Avoiding smiling in photos for years
• Self-consciousness in social and professional settings
• Missed opportunities due to lack of confidence

The longer you wait:

• Orthodontic issues often worsen with age
• Treatment may become more complex (and expensive)
• Underlying damage may occur that requires additional dental work

Starting orthodontic treatment in January 2026 isn’t just an investment in your appearance—it’s an investment in your health, confidence, and future.

Special Considerations for Las Vegas Families

Living in Las Vegas presents some unique factors that make January an especially smart time to start orthodontic treatment.

The Las Vegas Lifestyle

Tourism and hospitality: Many Las Vegas families work in industries with variable schedules. Starting orthodontic treatment in January—after the holiday tourist rush—means more flexibility for appointments during slower work periods.

Desert climate: Las Vegas is known for intense summer heat. Starting treatment in January means you’ll be well-adjusted to your braces or aligners before the peak heat months, when staying hydrated and managing any mouth sensitivity becomes more important.

Year-round activities: Unlike cities with harsh winters, Las Vegas families stay active outdoors all year. Getting braces or clear aligners in January means you won’t miss out on spring hiking, swimming, or other activities while adjusting to treatment.

School Schedules in Clark County

For local families, January timing works perfectly with the Clark County School District calendar:

• Kids are back in routine after winter break
• No major school events coming up immediately
• Parents can build orthodontist appointments into the established school-year schedule
• Treatment can progress smoothly through spring semester

Common Concerns Addressed: Your Questions Answered

“Will it hurt?”

Initial discomfort is normal but manageable. When you first get braces or start clear aligners, you may experience:

• Mild pressure or soreness for 2-5 days
• Sensitivity when chewing
• Mouth irritation from brackets (easily managed with dental wax)

This is your teeth beginning to move—it’s a sign treatment is working. Most patients describe it as mild discomfort, not pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods help during adjustment periods.

After the first few days, most people adapt completely and don’t think about it. Subsequent adjustments typically cause less discomfort as your mouth gets used to treatment.

“What can I eat with braces?”

Most foods are fine, with some exceptions:

Avoid:

• Hard foods (ice, hard candy, nuts) that can break brackets
• Sticky foods (caramel, taffy, gum) that can pull brackets off
• Chewy foods (bagels, tough meat) that strain wires
• Foods you bite into with front teeth (apples, corn on the cob)—cut into smaller pieces instead

Enjoy freely:

• Soft foods (pasta, rice, soft bread)
• Proteins (eggs, chicken, fish, tofu)
• Dairy (yogurt, cheese, milk)
• Fruits and vegetables (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Treats (ice cream, soft cookies, cake)

With clear aligners, there are zero food restrictions because you remove them to eat. This is one reason many adults and teens prefer aligners.

“How often will I need appointments?”

Traditional braces: Typically every 4-8 weeks for adjustments (about 30 minutes per visit)

Clear aligners: Every 6-10 weeks for progress checks (about 15-20 minutes per visit)

At NLV Orthodontics, we respect your time and work to minimize disruption to your schedule. We also offer Saturday appointments and flexible weekday hours.

“What if I play sports or an instrument?”

Sports: We provide custom mouthguards that fit over braces for contact sports. Clear aligners can be removed during games and practice (though most athletes keep them in).

Instruments: Most musicians adapt to braces within 2-3 weeks. For woodwind or brass instruments, there’s a brief adjustment period. Clear aligners can be removed during performances if needed.

The key is communication—let us know your activities during your consultation so we can plan accordingly.

“Can I still get braces if I have dental work (fillings, crowns, etc.)?”

Yes, absolutely. Existing dental work doesn’t prevent orthodontic treatment. Your orthodontist will work around crowns, bridges, implants, or other restorations. In some cases, we coordinate with your dentist to optimize results.

“What happens after my braces come off?”

You’ll wear a retainer. Retainers are essential to maintain your new smile because teeth have a natural tendency to shift back.

Most patients wear retainers:

• Full-time for the first 3-6 months after treatment
• Nighttime-only indefinitely (or as directed by your orthodontist)

Retainers are comfortable, easy to wear, and protect your investment. We provide detailed retainer care instructions and schedule regular follow-up visits to ensure your smile stays perfect.

The NLV Orthodontics Difference

You have choices when it comes to orthodontic care in Las Vegas. Here’s what makes NLV Orthodontics special:

Personalized Care

We treat you like family. This isn’t marketing speak—our patients consistently mention feeling welcomed, comfortable, and cared for. We learn your name, remember your story, and celebrate your progress with you.

Modern Technology

We use the latest orthodontic technology:

• Digital X-rays (less radiation than traditional film)
• 3D digital scanners (no goopy impressions)
• Advanced treatment planning software
• State-of-the-art materials for faster, more comfortable treatment

Comprehensive Treatment Options

From traditional metal braces to clear aligners to ceramic braces, we offer every major orthodontic treatment option. This means we can recommend what’s truly best for you—not just what we specialize in.

Transparent Pricing

We believe you deserve to know exactly what treatment will cost before you commit. No hidden fees, no surprise charges—just honest, upfront pricing and flexible payment options.

Convenient Location and Hours

Located at 2365 Reynolds Ave #101 in North Las Vegas, we’re easily accessible for families throughout the Las Vegas area. We’re open Monday through Saturday with flexible appointment times to accommodate work and school schedules.

Braces Bucks Rewards Program

Our unique rewards program makes treatment fun by rewarding patients for:

• Arriving on time
• Maintaining good oral hygiene
• Caring for braces properly
• Referrals and reviews
• Good report cards
• Regular dental visits

Patients earn Braces Bucks they can redeem for prizes in our office—it’s our way of encouraging great habits and making the orthodontic journey more enjoyable.

Real Stories from Real Patients

Don’t just take our word for it—here’s what NLV Orthodontics patients have to say:

Susana R.

“Very professional, super cool, and a down to earth team. I’m glad I chose NLV Orthodontics for my ortho care. I highly recommend them. You will be impressed with the professionalism and the care they provide.”

Felicia B.

“This place is awesome. The staff was amazing and very attentive to my son’s needs. They explained everything in detail step by step. If you’re looking for a great ortho team, this is the place.”

Jose M.

“Awesome customer service! Best orthodontist I’ve ever been to. I always recommend coming here. My journey to straight teeth was incredibly smooth and easy. The team is very knowledgeable and always answers any questions I have.”

Angie T.

“This place is amazing. The staff was amazing and so helpful. Whatever you don’t understand, they explain in detail step by step. If you’re looking for a great ortho team, this is the place. 100 percent recommend.”

These patients started their journeys just like you—researching options, weighing costs, wondering if it was the right time. Now they’re thrilled they made the decision.

Take Action: Your Smile Journey Starts Now

Here’s the bottom line: January 2026 offers you a unique combination of advantages that makes it the perfect time to start orthodontic treatment.

✅ Fresh insurance benefits ✅ New Year motivation and momentum ✅ Better appointment availability ✅ Perfect timing for students and families ✅ Whole year ahead to complete treatment ✅ Strategic budgeting and planning time

The investment is real, but so is the return: a healthier bite, a more confident smile, improved oral health, and the satisfaction of finally checking this goal off your list.

You wouldn’t put off fixing your car’s alignment until the tires were ruined. Why treat your smile any differently?

Your Simple Next Steps

This Week: Schedule your free consultation - Call (702) 476-2444 or book online

‍Have insurance information ready - We’ll verify your benefits for free

‍Write down your questions - Bring them to your consultation

Before Your Consultation: Review your goals - What do you want to achieve with treatment?

‍Check your schedule - Think about appointment availability

‍Discuss with family - Make sure everyone’s on board

During Your Consultation:

‍Ask all your questions - No question is too small

‍Review treatment options - Understand your choices

‍Discuss costs and payment - Get complete financial clarity

After Your Consultation:

‍Take time to decide - No pressure, no rush

‍Schedule treatment start - When you’re ready

‍Get excited! - Your smile transformation is beginning

Ready to Start Your Smile Journey?

Don’t let another January pass without taking action on the smile you’ve always wanted. Whether you’re 8 or 80, it’s never too early or too late to invest in a healthier, more confident smile.

Contact NLV Orthodontics Today

Phone: (702) 476-2444 Location: 2365 Reynolds Ave #101, North Las Vegas, NV 89030 Hours: Monday - Saturday (flexible scheduling available) Email: nlvorthodontics@gmail.com

We’re accepting new patients and offer free consultations with no obligation. Come see why Las Vegas families trust NLV Orthodontics for their orthodontic care.

Free consultation | Flexible payment plans | Most insurance accepted | Braces Bucks Rewards Program

At NLV Orthodontics, we help patients of all ages achieve straighter, healthier smiles with personalized care, modern technology, and a team that truly cares. We’re committed to making orthodontic treatment simple, affordable, and comfortable, so every patient feels supported from the first visit to the final results. Visit us online at nlvorthodontics.com or call today to schedule your free consultation.

About the Practice: NLV Orthodontics is a family-focused orthodontic practice serving North Las Vegas and surrounding communities. Our team specializes in braces, clear aligners, and comprehensive orthodontic care for children, teens, and adults.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. For personalized orthodontic treatment recommendations, please schedule a consultation with a licensed orthodontist.

Cost Guide Legend

To help you understand relative treatment costs, we use this system:

• $ = Lower cost option
• $$$$ = Highest cost procedures

For specific pricing on any treatment, please contact our office at (702) 476-2444. We’ll provide transparent, upfront costs and verify your insurance benefits during your free consultation.

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