Trusted Orthodontics in Tuscaloosa Address: 1224 McFarland Blvd NE b Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 Phone: 205-750-0081 Office Hours: Monday: 8am-5pm Tuesday: 8am-5pm Wednesday: 8am-5pm Thursday: 8am-5pm Friday: 8am-12pm Your Tuscaloosa Orthodontist Dr. R. Glen Cowan Jr. graduated with a Bachelor of Science from the University of Alabama. He attended the University of Alabama School of Dentistry and earned his Doctorate of Medicine in Dentistry with honors. Dr. Cowan was a part-time clinical instructor at the University of Alabama Orthodontic Department. Dr. Cowan has the following professional Affiliations: American Dental Association Alabama Association of Orthodontists Sixth District Dent Society American Association of Orthodontists Edward H. Angle Society College of Diplomates of the American Board of Orthodontists Southern Association of Orthodontists. Dr. Julie Whitaker earned her undergraduate degree at Clemson University. From there, she went on to the University of Alabama, where she earned both her DMD and Master’s of Science in Orthodontics. During her academic career, Dr. Whitaker received several awards for academic excellence. Today, she stays up-to-date with the latest in orthodontic treatments and technology to provide patients of all ages with high-quality care. When she isn’t building beautiful smiles, Dr. Whitaker enjoys giving back to her community. She serves as an active member of the Christian Medical Ministry of Alabama and sings in her church choir. In her free time, Dr. Whitaker enjoys singing, eating out, and watching college football with her husband, Dr. Brett Whitaker (as a local dentist, he creates smiles, too!) Tuscaloosa Braces Traditional braces are one of the most efficient orthodontic tools we have. The ceramic or metal brackets are attached to the teeth, then connected by wires and elastics or tiny rubber bands. Through regular adjustments with our doctors, these components work together to apply gentle pressure, which will gradually move the teeth into the desired positions. Whether simple or complex, Tuscaloosa braces are an excellent choice for correcting a number of tooth issues. Because they sometimes work faster at closing gaps and aligning teeth than other options might, overall treatment time can be slightly reduced. Since braces don’t require some of the more complicated technology or expensive equipment that newer treatments can, Tuscaloosa braces are a cost-effective orthodontic option for patients on a budget. Tuscaloosa Invisalign Rather than brackets and bands, the Tuscaloosa Invisalign system uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually move the teeth into alignment. This option is incredibly popular with both patients and orthodontists and is currently the top alternative to traditional braces. Invisalign aligners are made of a comfortable plastic material that is designed to fit snugly over the patient’s teeth. The trays are virtually invisible and are usually switched out every 1-2 weeks for the next in the series to keep the teeth moving correctly. Aligners must be worn 20-22 hours per day throughout treatment in order for them to do their job. Patients who fail to wear the aligners as directed can experience negative results and also add time to the orthodontic process. Invisalign is at its most effective when used to correct many of the most common orthodontic issues. For certain complex cases, Invisalign may not be a viable option. A free consultation with Cowan & Whitaker Orthodontics will be able to help determine your eligibility for Invisalign. Tuscaloosa Braces and Invisalign: find the right treatment for your smile Our skilled doctor and staff excel at providing customized treatment plans for each patient we see. When you visit our office for a complimentary consultation, you’ll find that we focus on your particular orthodontic needs, while taking into account your specific tooth shape, lip movement, and face shape. Using these as the basis for treatment will result in a beautifully aligned smile that’s just right for your face! To learn more about Tuscaloosa orthodontics, click here to schedule your free consultation with Cowan & Whitaker Orthodontics.