How We Make Orthodontic Treatment Stress-Free

Orthodontic visits do not have to feel chaotic. Board-certified Dr. Kanning and Dr. Sebastian keep stress low at Kanning Orthodontics with clear conversations, a visible open clinic, and a plan you can follow between appointments. Families come in for LightForce braces, CBCT planning when appropriate, and LightForce 3D printed ceramic brackets that fit the case rather than a template.

You hear exactly what we see, what we recommend, the timing, and the cost, and then you leave with short written steps for home. Kids stay motivated with Kanning Kash rewards and, for habits, our Thumb Game focuses on coaching instead of bulky add-ons. If you want stress-free orthodontic treatment, this is how we run every visit.

Our Step-By-Step First Visit

Find us at 9101 NE 82nd Terrace, just off Flintlock Road, behind Genesis Gym, next to JCPenney. Walk into a bright, open clinic, where a team member greets you, explains the plan so it is easy to understand, and asks how you prefer updates, detailed or quick.

What happens next:

  • Conversation first: Dr. Kanning or Dr. Sebastian listens to concerns, dental history, habits like thumb or finger sucking, and sports schedules.
  • CBCT and photos when appropriate: Our 3D imaging shows teeth and roots clearly, so we plan treatment that fits your child.
  • Same-day explanation: We review images together, outline options, and recommend treatment only when it is necessary.
  • Clear costs: Fees go in writing. We offer flexible payment options and answer questions on the spot.

A Clinic Built For Visibility And Clarity

Our clinic is open, so parents can see what is happening without crowding the chair. Doctors handle procedures that require a doctor. Team members perform only the duties Missouri licensing allows, and our clinical team is now staffed exclusively by EFDAs.

During adjustments, we keep a simple flow: explain the change, make the change, review at-home steps, and confirm the next goal. This format keeps appointments efficient and helps everyone stay on the same page.

This visit sets the tone for calm, predictable care. We cover what we saw, what we recommend, an estimated timeline, and next steps before you leave.

We Strive For Clear Communication

Clear, short instructions keep everyone on track. We use a five-point checklist at each visit:

  • What changed today
  • What to wear or where to turn if an appliance is involved
  • What to eat or avoid until tomorrow
  • When to start elastics, plus a quick fit check before you leave
  • The next appointment goal

You leave with the checklist in writing and a quick recap at the front desk. Snap a phone photo of elastic placement before you go, so the setup at home matches what we showed in the chair.

What A Typical Month Looks Like

A steady process keeps stress low. Many patients move through a timeline like this:

  • Month 1: Braces on, soft foods the first night, new brushing routine dialed in, first Kanning Kash points earned.
  • Months 2 to 3: Light adjustments, elastics if needed, quick photo check to confirm progress.
  • Months 4 to 6: Momentum phase, appointments slotted around school and games, rewards keep motivation up.
  • Final phase: Detail work, retainer plan set early, debond day capped with a popcorn celebration if you want it.

At each check, Kanning Orthodontics connects the visit to a simple reason, like chewing comfortably or protecting space for a future tooth, so everyone knows what the work accomplishes right now.

How We Make Orthodontic Treatment Stress-Free

What “Community” Means For Us

We show up where our patients spend their time. Liberty Public Schools and Kearney Public Schools know our team from game nights, teacher events, and the “Smile Cam” inside Liberty High and Liberty North during volleyball, basketball, and wrestling. Those partnerships help us plan around calendars, like tournament weeks, finals, and band trips.

Local also means supporting neighbors. We print with Antioch Printing, share rotating artwork through ArtsKC, and celebrate debond days with Popculture Gourmet Popcorn. Hammerhand Coffee powers plenty of after-school visits. The building has even been highlighted on Archello and in the Kansas City Business Journal, which reflects the care that went into creating a space that serves Liberty and the Northland well.

Here is how that community focus shows up in care:

  • Scheduling that matches school life: We track district calendars and offer visit times that work around practices and games.
  • Clear communication with parents and coaches: If elastics or an appliance affects a mouthguard, we talk through options so athletes feel ready to play.
  • Spotlight on local wins: We cheer debonds with small local treats and share milestones that matter to families here.
  • A space that feels familiar: Art from local creators and a friendly, open clinic make visits feel like part of the neighborhood, not a chore.
  • Community is not a slogan for us: It is the reason our doors open early on busy weeks and why our care stays practical for kids who carry backpacks, instruments, and gym bags.

Quick FAQ

How much do braces cost?

We review fees in the consultation and outline several payment options. No surprise add-ons later. 

What foods should I avoid with braces?

Sticky and hard foods can cause problems. We teach workarounds so your child can still enjoy favorites without broken brackets. 

Do I need an orthodontic mouthguard for sports? 

Yes for contact and collision sports. We will help you select one that works with braces. 

Do I really need to wear a retainer forever? 

Teeth can shift. Wearing a retainer at night protects your finished result with minimal effort.”

Do you offer Invisalign?

We do not. Our focus is braces, including LightForce custom ceramic brackets designed from a digital scan.

How often are appointments?

Most visits occur every 6 to 10 weeks, depending on the treatment phase and how the teeth are responding.

What if a bracket breaks or a wire pokes?

Cover the spot with wax and call us. We leave time in the schedule for quick repairs so that you won’t wait long.

Can my child still play an instrument or sing?

Yes. Wax helps with new spots, and we can make time adjustments around concerts. Tell us rehearsal dates, and we will plan accordingly.

Set Up A Visit That Fits Your Week

Meet with Dr. Kanning or Dr. Sebastian, take a quick look around Kanning Orthodontics, and talk through options, timeline, and pricing in plain language. 

Call us and schedule your appointment, then choose Liberty at 9101 NE 82nd Terrace near JCPenney or our Kansas City location. Ask about LightForce custom ceramic braces, CBCT imaging when it helps the plan, and how Kanning Kash rewards keep kids motivated.