University of Minnesota Orthodontic Clinic

The University of Minnesota Orthodontic Clinic is an integral part of the University of Minnesota's School of Dentistry, located within the Malcolm Moos Health Sciences Tower in Minneapolis, MN. It functions as a specialty clinic that provides advanced orthodontic treatment while serving as a crucial teaching environment for dentists undergoing a two-year residency program in orthodontics. This unique model allows the clinic to offer high-quality care to patients of all ages—children, teens, and adults—often at a reduced cost compared to private practices, typically around 30% less than average fees in the Twin Cities. Patients at the clinic benefit from a collaborative approach to their care. Licensed dentists in the residency program perform treatments under the vigilant supervision of full-time faculty members. These faculty members are expert clinicians, many of whom are certified by the American Board of Orthodontics and possess extensive clinical experience. The clinic emphasizes the application of the latest technology in orthodontics, including CBCT scans, digital models and charts, and computer-aided treatment planning. A wide range of orthodontic services are available, including traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, and clear aligners such as Invisalign and SureSmile. The clinic addresses various dental and facial irregularities, such as crooked teeth, bite problems (overbites, underbites), and jaw alignment issues, with a focus on improving both oral function and aesthetics. They also have specialized care for complex cases, including a rotation in the school's cleft lip/palate clinic, working with multidisciplinary teams to treat craniofacial disorders. The patient journey typically begins with a complimentary initial screening exam to assess suitability for treatment and provide a cost estimate. Subsequent appointments involve diagnostic record-taking and a detailed consultation where a personalized treatment plan, goals, and fees are discussed. Regular adjustment appointments are scheduled every four to six weeks. The clinic accepts most private insurance plans, Medical Assistance, and MinnesotaCare, and offers financing options like CareCredit to make treatment more accessible. The clinic's mission extends beyond patient care to include excellence in orthodontic education and research, fostering the advancement of the field.