Maya RichardsonFinding the right professional for your smile can feel daunting, especially when searching for the best orthodontists in Columbus. Whether you’re a parent considering braces for your teen or an adult improving alignment, the decision carries real weight.
The same is true if you are considering more advanced treatments like dental implants, where precision and long-term results matter just as much as appearance.
A healthy, straight smile improves both confidence and long-term oral health, so choosing the right provider is not something to rush. I remember navigating these same options and wishing there had been a clearer way to compare trusted clinics in one place.
That’s why I rallied my team to help me put together this guide to help you understand your choices and find an orthodontist in Columbus who fits your needs, goals, and budget.
How much does an orthodontist charge in Columbus?
Orthodontists in Columbus charge between $3,000 and $8,000 for braces, though booking a complimentary consultation with local experts is the best way to get a precise estimate tailored to your exact needs.
1. CARMEN ORTHODONTICS
Website: carmenorthodontics.com
Address: 5225 East Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43213
Contact: (614) 864-5555
Schedule: Monday to Thursday 7:40AM–4:30PM | Friday 7:40AM–1:00PM
Taking that first step toward a straighter smile often feels intimidating, but Carmen Orthodontics makes the process highly reassuring.
They have a Diamond Provider Status for clear aligners and massive historical case volumes. Because they handle such a staggering number of unique alignment needs, they have practically seen every dental challenge imaginable.
They also use rapid alignment technology to significantly cut down your overall time in the chair, which is paired nicely with very low initial down payments to keep things accessible.
When a friend recently took her daughter here for an initial consultation, she was incredibly relieved by how manageable the monthly fees turned out to be.
However, you should know that their scheduling is extremely rigid. This means they absolutely don’t accommodate spontaneous or drop-in visits.
You also have to wait for the staff to explicitly reach out and finalize any online bookings, which can be slightly frustrating if you are trying to secure a time slot quickly.
Customer Reviews
Amazing, caring team makes visits great
My son loves coming in to Carmen’s orthodontist office. Emilia always does a great job and she always so kind, attentive, and caring. Sidney, Hannah, Ruby, Makayla, Natalie C., Natalie R., Triston, Maddie B., Emma, Riley and Katelin also do an amazing job and they all are part of an amazing team.
- Emily Friedrich | Google Reviews
Best orthodontist practice; friendly and accommodating
This is by far the best orthodontist practice in town. This is my second time in braces but my first time and Carmen and everyone is friendly and accommodating. And I mean everyone. Ortho tech Triston is fantastic and everyone at front desk is fantastic and always understanding.
- Wil Turner | Google Reviews
2. POLARIS ORTHODONTIC CENTER
Website: polarisorthodonticcenter.com
Address: 1079 Polaris Pkwy, Columbus, OH 43240
Contact: (614) 781-6990 | [email protected]
Schedule: Monday to Thursday 9:00AM–5:00PM | Friday 9:00AM–3:00PM
Polaris Orthodontic Center is known for combining high-level orthodontic expertise with practical financial flexibility. This makes it especially appealing for families managing longer treatment plans.
The clinic also offers zero-interest payment plans that help spread out the cost of care without adding extra financial pressure.
Another convenience factor is its location near major shopping centers, which makes it easy to run errands before or after appointments instead of planning an entire separate trip. That small detail tends to make routine visits feel less disruptive to a busy schedule.
The main trade-offs come down to policy strictness. Their financial agreements are firm, meaning patients are responsible for any remaining balance if insurance coverage changes unexpectedly.
Additionally, they are very firm about compliance, warning patients that failing to stick to a strict aligner schedule will negatively impact their overall treatment timeline.
Customer Reviews
Professional team delivered amazing, proud results
I just finished my treatment, and I’m absolutely in love with the results! I finally have a smile I’m proud of 😁. Dr. Mason and the entire team are incredibly professional, friendly, and supportive. They made the whole process smooth and comfortable from start to finish. I truly appreciate their dedication and care—my experience couldn’t have been better! Highly recommend to anyone looking for an amazing orthodontist.
- Alaa Jaber | Google Reviews
Dr. Mason is worth the drive
We drive a long distance and pass many other orthodontists on the way to our appointments here. Dr. Mason is worth it. He is extremely good at what he does. He has a vision of what works best for your facial structure and adjusts accordingly. He also gives pretty accurate time estimates. The office is efficient and the staff is friendly. In addition to being a great orthodontist, Dr. Mason is very personable and pleasant; we actually enjoy going to appointments. I will take all of my kids that need braces here.
- Jenni J | Google Reviews
3. COLUMBUS ORTHODONTIC CENTER
Website: columbusorthodonticcenter.com
Address: 2 E Long Street, Columbus, OH 43215
Contact: (614) 549-5835 | Fax: (614) 781-9477 | [email protected]
Schedule: Monday to Thursday 8:00AM–4:00PM | Friday 9:00AM–3:00PM
Securing an appointment outside of normal business hours is a huge relief for busy professionals. Columbus Orthodontic Center intentionally opens up its schedule on weekends to accommodate those tight timelines.
They consistently maintain top patient satisfaction metrics while offering highly discreet solutions like lingual braces. These braces attach directly to the back of your teeth, so they remain completely out of sight.
They also utilize advanced acceleration technology designed to drastically reduce the total number of months you have to spend wearing dental hardware.
Just keep in mind that failing to follow their aligner schedule can cost you extra money for the extended treatment time.
Also, if your insurance coverage is abruptly lost mid-plan, you’re fully responsible for covering that sudden difference out of pocket.
Customer Reviews
Invisalign journey successful and very efficient
Couldn’t be happier with my Invisalign journey! I had braces as a kid but was terrible about wearing my retainer. Fast forward almost 20 years, my teeth had shifted significantly, and I, once again, became so unconfident about my smile.
After Googling for the best orthodontist in town, I went with Dr. Mason. I had initially looked into jaw surgery, but Dr. Mason said it wasn’t necessary and recommended Invisalign instead. My 18-month treatment plan ended up taking only 12 months, much to my delight. Not to mention each visit was super efficient – in and out in 30 minutes.
- Jessie Chiu | Google Reviews
Dr. Mason achieved amazing underbite correction
Dr. Mason – Magician. I received braces treatment with a grade 3 underbite. The results are night and day. If you are looking to get the best care, Dr. Mason is for you. I couldn’t be happier with the end results. To the point where my friends and family ask if I tipped my orthodontist. Amazing!
- M | Google Reviews
4. GLOBAL SMILES ORTHODONTICS
Website: globalsmiles.us
Address: 3160 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43204
Contact: New Patients: (614) 230-0374 | Existing Patients: (614) 279-6481
Schedule: Monday 7:30AM–4:00PM | Tuesday, Thursday 7:30AM–5:00PM | Wednesday, Friday 7:30AM–12:00PM
Global Smiles Orthodontics takes a more holistic approach to orthodontic care, focusing not just on straightening teeth but also on the overall structural health of the jaw and facial muscles.
Their philosophy leans toward preserving natural bite function, with a strict tooth conservation policy that avoids unnecessary extractions whenever possible.
They also try to make treatment more manageable for families by offering appointment times after school hours, so kids can attend without missing classes.
On the community side, they partner with local schools to provide paid internships for students interested in dentistry, which adds an educational layer to their practice.
The main limitation is scheduling flexibility. Their hours are reduced toward the end of the week, with the clinic closing at noon on both Wednesdays and Fridays.
Customer Reviews
Dr. Mendieta worked a miracle; great service
I am beyond pleased with the results both my children have gotten with their braces! My daughter had been told she needed major surgery by dentists and another orthodontist, and Dr Mendieta and Global Smiles worked a miracle with her. She has gained so much confidence, and as a mom I couldn’t have asked for better results and better service! My son also has had excellent results very quickly and things have moved so well quickly. It was so easy to make appointments also, and to get in if we needed to.
- Jennifer Leach Sevy | Google Reviews
Wonderful orthodontist, awesome and attentive staff
Dr Mendieta is a wonderful orthodontist! I highly recommend this office if you or anyone you know may need braces. The office is very nice and modern. The staff is awesome and very attentive to your needs and schedule. They explain everything to you and do not push things on you like some places I’ve been to. I am very pleased with my sons progress and experience here. Thank you Global Smiles!
- Angie Morrow | Google Reviews
5. SMILE DOCTORS ORTHODONTICS – UPPER ARLINGTON
Website: smiledoctors.com
Address: 1535 Old Henderson Rd., Columbus, OH, 43220
Contact: (614) 881-5540
Schedule: Monday to Thursday 7:00AM–4:00PM | Friday 8:00AM–12:00PM
Smile Doctors Orthodontics offers a streamlined, clear aligner program designed for adults who want faster cosmetic orthodontic results with fewer in-office visits.
As part of a national provider network, they position their treatment approach around convenience. They follow structured systems intended to move patients through alignment goals in a relatively short timeframe, sometimes within about six months.
They also run charitable initiatives aimed at improving access to orthodontic care for lower-income families. This broadens their role beyond purely cosmetic treatment and into community support.
A practical consideration is cost structure. Patients are typically responsible for any preliminary dental work needed before starting treatment, such as cleanings, fillings, or extractions.
They also reserve the right to terminate your care and remove your hardware completely if you develop cavities or fail to maintain proper brushing habits during the process.
Customer Reviews
Phenomenal service; no long wait for braces
Small doctors have went over and beyond to help my daughter with her smile they’re working on getting her braces. She didn’t have to wait for a long period of time they got her in right away. Her braces look nice. I definitely recommend this orthodontist to anybody. Their service is phenomenal. Thank you so much smile Doctors.
- Simone Johnjohn2008 | Google Reviews
Staff and Dr. Reed rescued my smile
Absolutely love them !!!! I came in to get new retainers because my old ones broke from another orthodontist and Shannon saw that my teeth were not done in the best way and I explained to her of my horrible experience with my braces before and she recommended me to get an opinion from her head doctor. She then introduced me to Dr. Reed and they absolutely rescued me. Got me new braces within two days. Im so thankful!!!
- Cienna Romain | Google Reviews
