Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile. 1 out of every 5 orthodontic patients are over the age of 21. The most common reasons for adults to seek orthodontic care is because of relapse from previous treatment as a child. Other reasons for treatment include: a bad bite (malocclusion); crowding or spacing that could be causing gum disease or tooth decay; worn or missing teeth that require movement for dental restorations. In more severe cases, jaw surgery or extractions may be necessary for adults because their jaws are not growing.
Our self-ligating ceramic brackets are made of a clear, translucent material that resist staining during treatment. They are usually used on older teenagers and adult patients who have cosmetic concerns. While visually less prominent, they are more brittle than their metal counterparts and tend to be used on upper teeth more than the lower teeth.
Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces. Made of high-grade stainless steel, metal braces straighten your teeth using metal brackets and archwires. Lots of kids wear their braces with pride and enjoy showing off their in-progress smile with Dr. Karas brightly colored elastics. We also offer self-ligating or tie-less brackets, reducing pressure on your teeth for more efficient movement. In addition to greater comfort, self-ligating brackets make it easier to maintain good oral hygiene, decrease frequency of visits, and shorten treatment time.
Yes, in fact its even more important that patients receiving orthodontic treatment visit their dentist regularly. With braces, food may be caught in places your toothbrush cant reach. This causes bacteria to build up and can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. We will work closely with your dentist to make sure your teeth stay clean and healthy while wearing braces.
Braces do not often hurt; however, you may feel a small amount of discomfort for a couple days as your teeth, gums, and mouth gets used to your new braces. We will give you wax to place on your brackets or wires. If sores or ulcers develop, we recommend dissolving 1 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of lukewarm water and swishing several times a day. For sore teeth you can try taking a pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or Tylenol.
During your treatment, try to avoid foods with a lot of sugar (sugar increases the amount of bacteria that grows in your mouth causing more plaque and possibly cavities). Avoid sticky and chewy foods (caramel, chewing gum, taffy, gummy bears), hard foods (hard candy, nuts, ice cubes, carrots) or any foods that could possibly get stuck in your braces (corn on the cob, apples, soft bagels)
Born and raised in Portland, Dr. Kara is proud to be practicing close to her friends and family, and giving back to her community by creating beautiful smiles that last forever. She received a B.S. in Biology and graduated Cum Laude from Santa Clara University before entering the University of Washington, School of Dentistry. She attended a General Practice Residency at University of San Francisco and then returned home to pursue a Master of Science in Orthodontics at OHSU. Continued education and involvement in the field of orthodontics are an important part of Dr. Karas commitment to her patients and her career. She is a member of the American Association of Orthodontics, Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontics, and the Pacific Northwest Angle Society.
Born and raised in Hood River, Karina has been in the medical field since 2013. She enjoys getting to know her patients and making sure they feel welcome and cared for. She spends her free time with her husband and two children.
Amy has worked in the dental field since high school. She completed the dental assistant program at Portland Community College. She enjoys helping her patients have their best smile! She loves living in Oregon with her husband, two teenage boys and their dog Lola who keep her busy.
Dahlia started working for Dr. Kara in 2007. She fell in love with orthodontics while attending school. Dahlia and her husband have three children. They enjoy hiking, sightseeing and being outdoors especially in the Gorge. She also enjoys running, bike riding and yoga.
Reviews
Rating 4.7 out of 5 based on 50 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestLea Joyer
2 years ago
We were visiting Hood River from abroad when my daughter ran out of rubber bands for her Invisalign trays. My sister recommended Straightline and I'm glad she did. They were so friendly and helpful-they helped us determine the correct sized bands and provided them free of charge. While I can't speak for the full orthodontic experience, their customer service was great!
Yukie Armenta
2 years ago
I would definitely recommend Dr. Hann and staff! They are so friendly and the office looks great. My brother and I both got our teeth done here and we are very happy with the work. Dr. Hann is a great Doctor who knows his profession very well. The assistants are awesome and the front desk is really nice too! Believe me, you won't regret going there.
Master Your Garden Oregon
2 years ago
I'm putting four stars only to verify that these reviews are real. Dr. Hobson and staff are really great. They treated my daughter and the fee was reasonable. I am now considering getting treatment for myself. Great place (5 stars)
Esque Studio (Andi Kovel)
2 years ago
I'm so impressed by the friendly and skilled team of professionals at Straightline. My appointments always feel supportive and personalized and I just want to say how grateful I am. They are reliable, go out of their way to accommodate my schedule, and noticeably passionate about their profession. Wonderful care and I trust Straightline Orthodontics without reservation. Thank you!
Alicia Crockett
2 years ago
My son just finished his treatment and his smile is gorgeous!! The staff and Dr. Hobson were a joy to work with. They were creative in our treatment plan to accommodate my son's special needs. Highly recommend.
Julia Mullinix
2 years ago
Super nice! They did a great job! They were a little rushed, but they handled it amazingly!
Jessica Davis
2 years ago
After meeting with several orthodontists in the Portland area, we followed up on a referral to Straightline in Hood River. It was well worth the drive. My son was on the fence if he even wanted braces but after listening to Dr. Hobson explain the process and show him the outcome, he was sold. My son's treatment was fast, efficient and affordable. The staff is awesome too!
Ang S
2 years ago
If there were negative stars I would given them. I am in the process of also filing a formal complaint with the proper oversight functions. I was provided an estimate and a clinical end point, neither was met. When I questioned the process and the delays, I was blamed for the issues in front of staff and other patients. When I pressed further I was basically told that I was lucky I wasn't charged for the services included in the treatment (which included emergency services). My clinical end point was 18-24 months from start of treatment and almost 30 months in and no end in sight after 4 different applications of bite aligners, I transferred to another orthodontic practice which cost me an additional $3000.00 out of pocket. A meager $500 was returned to me from Straightline. I am now $9,000 into treatment for a 2 year or less process and at very near to 4 years of braces as an adult. Conversely the new Orthodontist estimated 12-14 months and has achieved the clinical end point in that time frame with less equipment and less hardware in my mouth.
Toni Crosby
2 years ago
Dr. Hobson and her professional, personable staff provided great service when I relocated to the area nearing the end of my Invisalign treatment. They managed to fit me in and came up with the perfect way to complete my treatment. I am extremely happy with my results and to highly recommend Straightline Orthodontics. Toni
figtree blue
2 years ago
Forgot teeth rubber bands on a trip, let us pick up new ones no problem.
Joshua Sharp
2 years ago
So glad we chose Straightline. The staff, the facility, and the results. The quality of care is outstanding. There might be an equal provider; but I'm at a loss for how there could be a better one.
Colin Herr
2 years ago
Thank you so much for getting my son in for an out of state wire trim. Wonderful experience. Highly recommended.
James Widenmann
3 years ago
Fantastic work and very friendly people. The entire experience was exceptional. COVID-19 made it difficult for many in fields of health and dental. The staff at Straightline managed these times very well! I am very well pleased with my teeth!
figtree blue
3 years ago
Forgot teeth rubber bands on a trip, let us pick up new ones no problem.
Joshua Sharp
3 years ago
So glad we chose Straightline. The staff, the facility, and the results. The quality of care is outstanding. There might be an equal provider; but I'm at a loss for how there could be a better one.
Toni Crosby
3 years ago
Dr. Hobson and her professional, personable staff provided great service when I relocated to the area nearing the end of my Invisalign treatment. They managed to fit me in and came up with the perfect way to complete my treatment. I am extremely happy with my results and to highly recommend Straightline Orthodontics. Toni
Ang S
3 years ago
If there were negative stars I would given them. I am in the process of also filing a formal complaint with the proper oversight functions. I was provided an estimate and a clinical end point, neither was met. When I questioned the process and the delays, I was blamed for the issues in front of staff and other patients. When I pressed further I was basically told that I was lucky I wasn't charged for the services included in the treatment (which included emergency services). My clinical end point was 18-24 months from start of treatment and almost 30 months in and no end in sight after 4 different applications of bite aligners, I transferred to another orthodontic practice which cost me an additional $3000.00 out of pocket. A meager $500 was returned to me from Straightline. I am now $9,000 into treatment for a 2 year or less process and at very near to 4 years of braces as an adult. Conversely the new Orthodontist estimated 12-14 months and has achieved the clinical end point in that time frame with less equipment and less hardware in my mouth.
Julia Mullinix
3 years ago
Super nice! They did a great job! They were a little rushed, but they handled it amazingly!
Colin Herr
3 years ago
Thank you so much for getting my son in for an out of state wire trim. Wonderful experience. Highly recommended.
Jessica Davis
3 years ago
After meeting with several orthodontists in the Portland area, we followed up on a referral to Straightline in Hood River. It was well worth the drive. My son was on the fence if he even wanted braces but after listening to Dr. Hobson explain the process and show him the outcome, he was sold. My son's treatment was fast, efficient and affordable. The staff is awesome too!
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