Timothy M. Shannon, DDS in Oklahoma City: Braces and Clear Aligners for Teens and Adults
Timothy M. Shannon, DDS operates as an orthodontic practice in Oklahoma City, offering conventional braces and clear-aligner treatment for patients from early teens through adulthood. The practice focuses on two-phase treatment for younger patients and comprehensive correction for older teens and adults, with pricing structured around treatment complexity rather than aligner quantity alone.
What braces and aligners cost at Shannon's practice
Shannon's office charges for braces and clear-aligner treatment on a per-case basis, with initial consultation free. Conventional metal braces run between $3,500 and $6,500 depending on predicted treatment length and tooth movement complexity. Clear-aligner cases (the practice uses Invisalign) typically range from $3,800 to $7,200. Payment plans spread the cost over the treatment duration with no interest if paid on time; the practice also accepts most PPO and HMO dental insurance, which may cover 40 to 60 percent of orthodontic treatment if your plan includes the benefit. Verify current fees and insurance participation directly, as plan networks change.
Two-phase treatment for children under 12 (early intervention for bite problems or jaw growth guidance) costs $2,000 to $3,500 for phase one, with the full comprehensive treatment discounted if phase two is completed at the same practice.
Braces versus clear aligners: when to choose each at Shannon's
Metal braces are the standard choice for severe crowding, large bite corrections, or cases where precise three-dimensional control matters most. They are fixed, cannot be removed during treatment, and work continuously. Clear aligners move teeth through a series of custom trays; patients remove them for eating and cleaning, which means compliance (wearing aligners 20 to 22 hours daily) falls entirely on the patient. Aligners cost slightly more, suit adult professionals and teens with good discipline, and are nearly invisible during treatment. Braces work faster on complex cases and cost less overall. At Shannon's practice, the choice depends on the problem: severe skeletal or bite issues typically require braces; mild to moderate crowding or spacing often suits aligners.
Competitors in Oklahoma City include Schumacher Orthodontics and Gorman Orthodontics, both of which also offer both modalities. Schumacher's pricing is roughly comparable, but Gorman emphasizes accelerated treatment using supplemental technology (vibration devices that may reduce overall time), which adds $500 to $1,000 to the case fee. Shannon's approach is more traditional; treatment timelines run 18 to 36 months depending on severity.
Consultation and first appointment
New patients call to schedule a free initial consultation, where Shannon or an associate performs a brief exam, takes digital photographs and X-rays, and discusses the treatment plan and fee estimate. This visit typically lasts 30 to 45 minutes. If you elect treatment, a second appointment is scheduled to place bands and brackets (for braces) or to deliver the first set of aligners. If you choose braces, expect 1 to 2 hours chairside for placement and instructions. Clear-aligner patients receive a series of trays at that visit and detailed wear instructions.
Active treatment appointments occur every 4 to 8 weeks. For braces, these involve wire changes and bracket adjustments; for aligners, the visit confirms compliance and dispenses the next batch of trays. Each appointment runs 15 to 30 minutes.
Payment plans and insurance process
Shannon's office does not require a large down payment; many patients pay the full fee in monthly installments over the 24- to 36-month treatment period. Ask about the specific plan structure at consultation. If you carry dental insurance with orthodontic coverage, the office submits claims directly. Coverage usually caps at $1,200 to $1,500 per lifetime for each covered family member and covers a percentage of the remaining balance. Out-of-pocket costs after insurance depend on your specific plan's deductible and coinsurance. Uninsured patients negotiate the standard cash fee.
Who fits here and who does not
Shannon's practice serves teenagers and adults whose compliance is realistic (braces suit any discipline level; aligners require responsible use) and whose problems fall within standard orthodontic scope (crowding, spacing, bite correction). Very young children (under 6) are not candidates; early evaluation typically begins around age 7. Patients with severe skeletal problems (such as an underdeveloped jaw requiring surgery) may be referred to an oral surgeon or a specialist in orthognathic surgery before or during orthodontic treatment.
Adults seeking esthetic improvement and willing to wear braces or aligners for 18 to 36 months fit well. Patients who cannot comply with aligner wear or cannot attend regular appointments should choose braces, which are passive once placed.
Hours, location, and parking
The practice operates Monday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with limited Friday hours; verify current hours by phone, as they may shift seasonally. Off-street parking is available at the office location. Most appointments can be scheduled after 3:30 p.m. or before 10:00 a.m. to accommodate school and work schedules.
Shannon's practice is one of a handful of full-time orthodontic offices in Oklahoma City offering both braces and clear aligners in one location, with fee transparency and direct insurance processing that cuts down on surprise bills.
