Your Best Choice for Orthodontic Care
In the Abilene, Wylie, Jim Ned & Buffalo Gap Area
What is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry focused on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaw issues. Orthodontic treatment helps improve both the function and appearance of your smile by addressing problems like crowded teeth, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and gaps. Properly aligned teeth contribute to better oral health, easier cleaning, and improved overall well-being.
Airway Orthodontics
Airway orthodontics is an approach that evaluates how jaw position and dental development affect the airway. Learn More »
Invisalign
Ideal for adults and teens, Invisalign improves your smile, corrects bite issues, and enhances oral health without traditional metal braces. Learn More »
MARPE (Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion)
MARPE (Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion) is an advanced orthodontic treatment used to widen the upper jaw in a stable, predictable way. Learn More »
Orthodontic Retainers
You’ve invested time and effort into your smile - retainers help protect that investment. Learn More »
Phase 1 Orthodontics
Phase 1 orthodontics focuses on early treatment for children while they are still growing. Learn More »
Traditional & Ceramic Braces
Traditional & Ceramic Braces have a long-standing history in orthodontics. Crafted from stainless steel, titanium and ceramic material, they remain a popular and effective choice for straightening teeth in Abilene, TX. Learn More »
Getting Started
Beginning Your Treatment with Confidence
Once you decide to move forward, your start appointment is where your treatment officially begins. This visit is designed to be comfortable, efficient, and informative—so you know exactly what to expect moving forward.
What Happens at This Appointment
Braces
If you’re starting braces, we’ll carefully place each bracket on your teeth using a precise bonding process. A custom wire is then added to begin guiding your teeth into alignment.
• The appointment typically takes 60–90 minutes
• You can choose band colors (great for kids and teens)
• Everything is placed with accuracy to ensure efficient tooth movement
You’ll leave the office with your braces fully in place and your treatment underway.
Invisalign®
If you’re starting Invisalign®, you’ll receive your first sets of custom aligners.
During this visit, we will:
• Ensure your aligners fit properly
• Place small, tooth-colored attachments if needed (these help guide tooth movement)
• Review how and when to wear your aligners
You’ll also receive detailed instructions so you feel confident managing your treatment at home.
What You’ll Feel
It’s normal to experience mild pressure or soreness during the first few days. This is a sign that your teeth are beginning to move.
• Most patients adjust within a few days
• Over-the-counter pain relief can help if needed
• Soft foods are recommended at first
Our team will provide tips to help you stay comfortable as you adjust.
Instructions & Tools
Before you leave, we’ll make sure you’re fully prepared.
You’ll receive:
• Brushing and flossing instructions
• A starter kit (including wax and cleaning tools for braces patients)
• Guidelines on foods to avoid (for braces)
• Wear schedule and care instructions (for Invisalign)
We’ll walk you through everything step-by-step so you feel confident from day one.
Setting You Up for Success
This appointment sets the foundation for your entire treatment. Proper placement, clear instructions, and good habits early on help ensure the best possible results.
Our team is always available if questions come up after you leave - we’re here to support you throughout your journey.
You’re Officially On Your Way
By the end of this visit, your treatment is underway - and you’re one step closer to your new smile.
Benefits of Early Treatment
Phase 1 orthodontics can provide important advantages:
• Creates space for proper eruption of permanent teeth
• Guides jaw growth for improved facial balance
• Reduces the risk of impacted or severely crowded teeth
• May shorten or simplify future treatment
• Supports better breathing and function
Early treatment is about prevention as much as correction.
Is Phase 1 Always Necessary?
Not every child requires early treatment. In some cases, the best approach is simply to monitor growth and begin treatment later.
Our goal is to recommend treatment only when it provides a clear benefit—not too early, and not too late.
Start Your Journey
If you’re ready to take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile, we’re here to help.
Contact us today to schedule your complimentary consultation.
Ready to Start Your Orthodontic Journey?
If you're ready to achieve a straighter, healthier smile, call Key City Kids today! Our experienced team is here to provide expert care and customized treatment options to fit your needs.
"We've been taking our 3 children here for a couple of years. Dr. Phillips and Dr. Ellis and the entire staff are absolutely amazing! So friendly, professional, and most importantly, our kids feel comfortable and enjoy the welcoming environment. Our 4th grader recently had his braces removed and the results are absolutely phenomenal!! From start to finish, Dr. Phillips was so great to work with and we could not be happier with the results. We've recommended friends to this location and will continue to highly recommend Key City - Dr. Phillips and Dr. Ellis and all the amazing ladies to everyone we know! My son can't quit showing off his beautiful smile and my other two actually get excited to hear "we're going to get teeth cleaned"🩷 Thank you Key City - Abilene for the great care you provide!"
