Local Parents Name the Best Orthodontists
Who doesn’t love seeing their child smile?
Yes, an orthodontist can help children with crooked teeth feel confident about their smile. However, there are many factors to take into consideration when setting up your orthodontic journey: frequent appointments, lengthy treatment timelines, and financial considerations are part of the equation.
Finding the right Grand Rapids orthodontist for your child is an important decision.
Thankfully, parents all over West Michigan have revealed to us the Grand Rapids orthodontists they love for their kids. Check out our list of the best Orthodontists in Grand Rapids, voted on by you, our readers.
in this article
Best Orthodontists in Grand Rapids/West Michigan (2025 Results)
Looking for a smile makeover?
Check out the 10 best orthodontists in West Michigan!
These experts are dedicated to helping you achieve your best grin.
Recommended by patients and families, here are some of the best in the biz:
sponsored listings:
FCP Guide
Dr. Kevin Knapp at Knapp Orthodontics
Our purpose at Knapp Orthodontics is to inspire confidence. We do this by creating healthy, beautiful smiles using the most advanced and efficient orthodontic treatments.
No matter your age, Dr. Knapp and his team welcome the opportunity to create a custom treatment plan that gives you a confident, lasting smile that you will love.
(616) 277-1938 | Visit Website
2384 76th St SW, Byron Center, MI 49315 | Map It
Dr. Kevin Knapp at Knapp Orthodontics
Our purpose at Knapp Orthodontics is to inspire confidence. We do this by creating healthy, beautiful smiles using the most advanced and efficient orthodontic treatments.
No matter your age, Dr. Knapp and his team welcome the opportunity to create a custom treatment plan that gives you a confident, lasting smile that you will love.
2384 76th St SW, Byron Center, MI 49315 | Map It
FCP Guide
Kathryn Swan DDS MS at Swan Orthodontics
Swan Orthodontics offers a modern orthodontic experience, treating patients of all ages with braces or Invisalign. They are the only practice in Grand Rapids offering Invisalign Palatal Expanders.
As a working mom, Dr. Swan understands that convenience is important. Patients are remotely monitored, significantly cutting down on the amount of missed school and work.
Patients seek treatment at Swan Orthodontics for their customized treatment plans and affordable payment options. The friendly team make office visits a breeze.
Schedule your free consultation today!
This office is so professional, well informed, great education, reasonable pricing, and great communication. We love all of the staff and Dr. Swan!
(616) 698-2323 | Visit Website
1723 68th Street SE Ste A, Caledonia, MI 49316 | Map It
Kathryn Swan DDS MS at Swan Orthodontics
Swan Orthodontics offers a modern orthodontic experience, treating patients of all ages with braces or Invisalign. They are the only practice in Grand Rapids offering Invisalign Palatal Expanders.
As a working mom, Dr. Swan understands that convenience is important. Patients are remotely monitored, significantly cutting down on the amount of missed school and work.
Patients seek treatment at Swan Orthodontics for their customized treatment plans and affordable payment options. The friendly team make office visits a breeze.
Schedule your free consultation today!
1723 68th Street SE Ste A, Caledonia, MI 49316 | Map It
FCP Guide
David Armbrecht and Mark Wierenga at Armbrecht & Wierenga Orthodontics
in practice with Dr. Sara Schwager
A&W Orthodontics is Grand Rapids' most experienced orthodontic practice, with more years of provider experience than any other local orthodontic office. Check our reviews on Google and look us up on Social Media!
Our focus is on top quality care in a caring, friendly environment with individual treatment plans tailored to each patient.
All insurances accepted
High-tech 3D imaging, intraoral scanning, and 3D printing available
See a doctor at each visit
Family, military, and ministry discounts available
Flexible payment plans for every budget
Open 5 days-per-week
We are committed to continued doctor and staff education
Digital consultations available online!
They are ABSOLUTELY the best. The office staff is awesome! All of the docs take time to answer any questions you may have. I highly recommend them!
Becky (via Google)
(616) 455-4800 | Visit Website
2000 43rd St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508 | Map It
3131 44th St SW, Grandville, MI 49418 | Map It
David Armbrecht and Mark Wierenga at Armbrecht & Wierenga Orthodontics
A&W Orthodontics is Grand Rapids' most experienced orthodontic practice, with more years of provider experience than any other local orthodontic office. Check our reviews on Google and look us up on Social Media!
Our focus is on top quality care in a caring, friendly environment with individual treatment plans tailored to each patient.
All insurances accepted
High-tech 3D imaging, intraoral scanning, and 3D printing available
See a doctor at each visit
Family, military, and ministry discounts available
Flexible payment plans for every budget
Open 5 days-per-week
We are committed to continued doctor and staff education
Digital consultations available online!
Becky (via Google)
2000 43rd St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508 | Map It
3131 44th St SW, Grandville, MI 49418 | Map It
FCP Guide
Felipe Porto at Enjoy Orthodontics
Enjoy Orthodontics offers the most advanced treatment options available for the entire family.
Dr. Porto believes that everyone has the right to know what is best for them. He has more than 20 years of experience, and he is the only orthodontist in West Michigan who is Board Certified in Orthodontics and in Orofacial Pain.
We accept most insurance plans to make paying for orthodontics easy and affordable. We will also offer reasonable down payment options so you can begin treatment immediately. Our team will help you develop a monthly payment plan that will fit your budget.
"We had a great first appointment experience. The entire team is phenomenal. Dr. Porto was very honest, he explained everything in a way that was easy to understand."
J.C.
(616) 743-6569 | Visit Website
4320 44th Street SW, Suite 101, Grandville, MI 49418 | Map It
Felipe Porto at Enjoy Orthodontics
Enjoy Orthodontics offers the most advanced treatment options available for the entire family.
Dr. Porto believes that everyone has the right to know what is best for them. He has more than 20 years of experience, and he is the only orthodontist in West Michigan who is Board Certified in Orthodontics and in Orofacial Pain.
We accept most insurance plans to make paying for orthodontics easy and affordable. We will also offer reasonable down payment options so you can begin treatment immediately. Our team will help you develop a monthly payment plan that will fit your budget.
J.C.
4320 44th Street SW, Suite 101, Grandville, MI 49418 | Map It
FCP Guide
Dr. Cory Coe at Beaches & Braces
At Beaches and Braces, we believe everyone deserves a smile that shines as bright as the beach!
From traditional metal to clear aligners, our braces are designed for all lifestyles. Our affordable and flexible plans allow everyone to start your smile journey today.
Book your FREE consultation today and let's get our smile beach-ready.
(616) 878-5960 | Visit Website
2347 84th St SW, Byron Center, MI 49315 | Map It
4310 Leonard St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534 | Map It
Dr. Cory Coe at Beaches & Braces
At Beaches and Braces, we believe everyone deserves a smile that shines as bright as the beach!
From traditional metal to clear aligners, our braces are designed for all lifestyles. Our affordable and flexible plans allow everyone to start your smile journey today.
Book your FREE consultation today and let's get our smile beach-ready.
2347 84th St SW, Byron Center, MI 49315 | Map It
4310 Leonard St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534 | Map It
Dr. Kevin Knapp at Knapp Orthodontics
2465 Byron Station Dr SW, Suite D, Byron Center, MI 49315
Patients rave about the friendly team at Knapp Ortho in Byron Center, MI! With exceptional care and cutting-edge equipment, they achieve beautiful results in shorter treatment times. He’s repeatedly voted a best orthodontist by our readers!
Dr. Kevin Knapp specializes in orthodontics and offers modern, efficient treatments for children, teens, and adults. Their state-of-the-art digital office integrates technology for improved patient care and experience.
Flexible financing and payment plans are offered.
We’ve got more intel on Knapp Ortho here.
2 – Dr. Thomas Williams at Williams & Gallagher Orthodontics
6840 Northway Dr NE, Suite C, Rockford, MI 49341
Williams Orthodontics is a family-friendly orthodontic clinic in Rockford, MI. Dr. Williams practices with Dr. Gallagher and is regularly voted into the top 10. Their office aims to provide the best experience and create beautiful, healthy smiles for their patients.
Patients appreciate that Dr. Williams is approachable and easy-going. That, plus a caring staff and easy scheduling make them a popular choice among patients.
3 – Dr. Mark Weirenga at Armbrecht & Wierenga Orthodontics
2000 43rd St SE, Suite A, Grand Rapids, MI 49508
3131 44th St SW, Suite A, Grandville, MI 49418
Dr. Werienga is part of A&W Orthodontics, the longest standing orthodontic treatment practice in Grand Rapids, MI. Their friendly, experienced team provides top-quality care with personalized treatment plans.
You’ll see a doctor at each visit, enjoy high-tech imaging and intraoral scanning. They’re open five days a week, with digital consultations available online.
Armbrecht & Wierenga Orthodontics accepts all insurance plans, has family discounts and offers flexible payment plans to fit every budget.
4 – Dr. Kathryn Swan at Swan Orthodontics
1723 68th St SE, Suite A, Caledonia, MI 49316
Swan Orthodontics is a state-of-the-art practice with 3D x-rays, digital scans (no more goopy impressions) and free Invisalign upgrades (even for complex treatment plans).
We’ve got an insider’s look at Swan Orthodontics.
5 – Dr. Cory Coe at Beaches & Braces
2347 84th St. SW, Byron Center, MI 49315
597 Baldwin Dr, Jenison, MI 4942
4310 Leonard St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534
At Beaches and Braces, Dr. Cory Coe can help you achieve a beautiful, straight smile with their advanced orthodontic treatments. They offer multiple types of braces to give you the smile you have always wanted at your preferred comfort level.
6 – Dr. Felipe Porto at Enjoy Orthodontics
4320 44th St SW, Suite 101, Grandville, MI 49418
West Michigan’s only orthodontist also certified in orofacial pain, Dr. Porto at Enjoy Orthodontics sees every patient at every visit. They use the latest 3D technology to ensure you get great care and efficient service.
Bonus: little sibs can be part of the Little Joy Club to get free check-ups and monitoring to see if and when they might need braces. No cost, no obligation!
Pro tip: Dr. Porto will remove braces for your big moments (like senior pictures) and put them back on again at no extra charge!
Psst! We’ve got the inside scoop on Dr. Porto and Enjoy Orthodontics.
7 – Dr. Jeff Heinz at Heinz Orthodontics
158 Marcell Dr NE, Suite A, Rockford, MI 49341
6208 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Suite 3, Grand Rapids, MI 49508
Dr. Heinz and team make your orthodontic journey a memorable experience with personalized care and attention to detail.
From the moment you step into their warm and inviting office, you’ll be guided through every step of the process, with all procedures thoroughly explained. Dr. Heinz & team will create a custom treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Good to know: They use Damon system braces and clear aligners. Free consultations.
8 – Dr. David Armbrecht at Armbrecht & Wierenga Orthodontics
2000 43rd St SE, Suite A, Grand Rapids, MI 49508
3131 44th St SW, Suite A, Grandville, MI 49418
With years of experience treating patients with the highest level of care, Dr. David Armbrecht and his team are proud of their work and look forward to helping you accomplish your orthodontic goals.
9 – Dr. Jayne Kessel at Kessel & Bouwens Orthodontics
3101 Macatawa Dr, Grandville, MI 49418
3340 Central Blvd, Hudsonville, MI 49426
11160 WJ Presley Pkwy, Allendale, MI 49401
10432 Chicago Dr, Zeeland, MI 49464
Kessel and Bouwens have built a reputation in the community for outstanding patient service and quality orthodontic care – serving patients for over 35 years.
Dr. Jayne Kessel, along with her amazing team, will give you personalized care to help you achieve a smile that you love!
9 – Dr. Alexis Gallagher at Williams & Gallagher Orthodontics
6840 Northway Drive NE, Suite C, Rockford, MI 49341
This team loves what they do, and it shows – celebrating every milestone, big or small, and cherishing the journey you take together to a stunning, healthy smile. You are a part of the family from the initial consultation to the final reveal.
How to Choose the Best Orthodontist
Sooner or later, many parents hit the milestone of paying for a kids braces. Now comes the tricky task of finding the best orthodontist for your family.
When you’re investing in something as important as orthodontics, it’s important to find someone you can trust your child’s teeth (and face) to. You want someone reliable, experienced, and knowledgeable.
*Thanks to Dr. Kevin Knapp of Knapp Orthodontists in Byron Center, for consulting with us on this section.
Step 1: Research – Is the Doctor a Member of the American Association of Orthodontists?
Yes, it’s a mouthful but this simple step will help you see who has the qualifications to work on kids braces in your area.
Not all dentists who work with kids braces are orthodontists.
Dr. Knapp says orthodontists have an additional two to three years of training and licensing to become orthodontic specialists.
Check the status of local orthodontists here: American Association of Orthodontics
What is the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist?
Dentists are doctors of oral health that broadly deal with teeth, gum, nerves and jaw.
Orthodontists are specialists – they are dentists with additional specialty training in the art of moving teeth.
This extra training allows them to claim the title “Orthodontist” and assures that their practice will be advanced when it comes to treating misaligned teeth, crowded teeth, overbites, underbites, and other problems of the jaw. In short, Orthodontists use kids braces to straighten teeth and engineer smiles.
Step 2: Look for An Orthodontist Who Works Well With Your Family
There should be good communication directly between the orthodontist and the parent. A child should never be expected to relay information to the parent.
“We always communicate what was done at each appointment and what is planned for the next appointment, even if it is as simple as changing a wire and talking about rubber bands. That brief interaction is important.”
A likable, professional presence throughout your child’s treatment makes having braces much more pleasant.
Step 3: Location is Important, to a Point
Finding an office with a convenient location is important since you will be traveling there every four to six weeks.
However, the closest orthodontist won’t necessarily be the best fit for you, so decide how important close proximity is before choosing an orthodontist.
Step 4: Look for a Clean, Modern Office With a Practical View of Technology
Think twice before using an orthodontist who is an early technology adopter – you don’t want to be the patient getting everything new tried out on you.
Look for an orthodontist with a good balance of using proven methods while also looking forward to the newest technology.
“Modern, up-to-date practices will have digital x-ray and 3-D digital impressions. These technologies have proven themselves,” says Dr. Knapp.
Step 5: Look for an Orthodontist Who Cares About Giving You a Good Experience
Dr. Knapp has a unique way of looking at his role as an orthodontist and orthodontics in general. The patient’s experience, as well as the final outcome, are tantamount to what he does.
“Orthodontics is like a story, and it’s almost like a little book review each time. Each experience creates value for you being here.”
Takeaway lesson: Sign up with an office that makes you feel comfortable.
I am looking for an orthodontist on the NE or NW side of town. Has anyone compared the cost of treatment plans in that area and who did you find the most reasonably priced with great care? Thanks
Dr. John Monticello and Staff are wonderful! They did great work on all 4 of our kids, including 3 with special needs! All 4 have beautiful teeth! The whole staff is kind and helpful!!!