Maybe your child needs braces, or maybe you’re finally ready to straighten your own teeth. Either way, choosing an orthodontist in Thibodaux comes down to trust and experience. At Marcello Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, Dr. Christy Marcello is board-certified in both orthodontics and pediatric dentistry. She treats children, teens, and adults in one office on West Main Street. Orthodontics can feel overwhelming at first, so we walk you through your options, timeline, and costs before you commit to anything.

What Is Orthodontic Care?

Orthodontic care is the branch of dentistry that corrects the position of the teeth and jaws. It straightens crowded or crooked teeth and corrects bite problems such as overbites and crossbites. It also makes teeth easier to clean, which helps keep gums and supporting tissue healthy.

Treatment ranges from early interceptive care for growing children to comprehensive treatment for teens and adults. At every stage, we evaluate jaw alignment, tooth position, and facial balance, and then build a personalized plan based on what we find.

Which Orthodontic Treatments Do We Offer?

Our orthodontic treatments in Thibodaux are matched to each patient’s age, bite, and lifestyle:

• Traditional braces: Metal brackets and wires gradually guide teeth into alignment. Today’s braces are smaller and more comfortable than older styles, and kids can pick colorful bands for a fun touch.
• Ceramic braces: These work like traditional braces but use clear or tooth-colored brackets. They’re a good fit for patients who want a more discreet look and still need the control of brackets and wires.
• Clear aligners: Clear aligners are custom, removable trays. Each set is worn for about a week before moving to the next. You take them out to eat, brush, and floss, and they usually need fewer office visits than braces. They aren’t right for every case, and we’ll tell you honestly whether they fit yours.
• Early interceptive treatment: Also called Phase I, early orthodontic treatment is designed for children typically between ages 6 and 10. It addresses crossbites and crowding and saves space for permanent teeth while the jaw is still growing.

Who Is Dr. Christy Marcello?

Dr. Christy Marcello was born and raised in Thibodaux. She now practices in the same building that her father, Dr. Steven Marcello, opened in 1985. He was also a dual-trained pediatric dentist and orthodontist.

Her training includes:

• a dental degree from the LSU School of Dentistry
• a pediatric dental residency at LSU and the Children’s Hospital of New Orleans, where she earned a Master of Science in Dentistry
• two and a half years of orthodontic training at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry

She is the first and only female dental specialist from Louisiana to be dual-trained and board-certified in both pediatric dentistry and orthodontics.

For families, that dual training means your child can move from routine checkups into orthodontic treatment without switching offices or starting over with a new doctor.

What Happens at Your First Orthodontic Visit?

We keep every visit clear and predictable. Here’s how treatment typically unfolds:

1. Exam, x-rays, and photos: Digital x-rays and 3D imaging provide a detailed view of the teeth, jaws, and bite.
2. Personalized treatment plan: We explain your options, milestones, a realistic timeline, and costs, so you can decide with confidence.
3. Regular follow-ups: We adjust braces or check aligner progress to keep treatment on track.
4. Retention and long-term checkups: Retainers hold teeth in their new positions, and follow-up visits make sure results last.

For younger patients, we focus on guiding healthy jaw growth. For adults, we focus on efficiency and comfort.

Why Do Thibodaux Families Choose Marcello Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics?

• Personalized plans: We tailor care to a child’s growth or an adult’s goals, not a one-size-fits-all template.
• One office from first tooth to final retainer: Dr. Marcello leads both pediatric dentistry and orthodontics, so transitions are smooth and your child’s history stays with one trusted team.
• Clear communication: We explain each phase of treatment and show you how to care for braces or aligners at home. Our patient education resources give families answers between visits.
• Safety first: When a child needs dental treatment with IV sedation, a pediatric anesthesiologist and a team of nurses administer it. That lets Dr. Marcello focus entirely on treatment.
• Local roots: We’ve been part of the Thibodaux community since 1985, and we schedule visits around school and work for families across Lafourche Parish.

Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics in Thibodaux

At what age should my child first see an orthodontist?
You should start considering an orthodontic visit by age 7. Most children don’t need treatment that early, but an evaluation can catch jaw and spacing problems when they’re easier to correct. When early treatment is needed, it usually occurs between ages 6 and 10. If you are unsure, contact our office with your questions, and we can help you.

How do I know if my child needs orthodontics?
Common signs include:

• crowded teeth
• losing baby teeth unusually early or late
• crossbites
• jaw discomfort

We screen for these at routine visits and recommend an orthodontic evaluation when needed.

Do you offer orthodontic treatment for adults?
Yes. We treat adults, children, and teens. Many adults prefer clear aligners or ceramic braces because they’re less noticeable.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Most cases finish in 12 to 24 months, though some take less time and others more. It depends on the problem being corrected. We provide a realistic timeline during your consultation.

Do braces or aligners hurt?
Most patients feel pressure rather than sharp pain, usually for a few days after an adjustment or a new set of aligners. We share tips for managing soreness and protecting your teeth throughout treatment.

Are you accepting new patients?
Yes. New patients can call (985) 441-1922 or request an appointment online.

Where is your office?
We’re located at 156 W Main St, Thibodaux, LA 70301. Office hours are Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Schedule Your Orthodontic Consultation in Thibodaux

A healthier, straighter smile starts with one visit. Dr. Marcello and our team will examine your child’s teeth or your own and explain every option clearly. You’ll leave with a plan built around your family’s schedule and goals.

Call our new patient line at (985) 441-1922, or reach our main office at (985) 446-3754. You can also request your consultation online. We look forward to welcoming you to our practice.