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Best Braces Dentists in Des Moines, IA (2026)

58 clinics offering braces, rankedUpdated 1 orthodontist0 paid placementsHow we rank →

The short answer

  1. 1

    Best overall for braces: Denture Care of Des Moines, ranked #1 of 58 by service score; emergency visits and evening hours.

  2. 3

    Best specialist (orthodontist): Foster Orthodontics (formerly Willham & Foster Orthodontics), an orthodontist on staff, 4.8★ from 44 Google reviews, 2 of 20 collected reviews mention braces.

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58 Des Moines clinics list braces and are ranked here by service score. 1 lists an orthodontist, 2 offer same-day or emergency visits and 4 open Saturdays. Google ratings are on file for 1 of them.

Top 10 braces dentists in Des Moines at a glance

Top 10 braces dentists in Des Moines at a glance
RankClinicService scoreSpecialist on staffRating (reviews)Reviews mentioning bracesSame-day
1Denture Care of Des Moines77———Yes
2Dr. Atticus Q Hove DDS73———Yes
3Foster Orthodontics (formerly Willham & Foster Orthodontics)72Yes (orthodontist)4.8★ (44)2—
4Baig Fariha Dr67————
5Barbara Knapp67————
6Collins Richard T DDS67————
7John Cavanaugh67————
8Park Avenue Family Dental67————
9Professionals Choice Dental67————
10Rocklyn Dental67————

The 58 best braces dentists in Des Moines, ranked

Ordered by service score: the DR Score plus bonuses for a specialist on staff, reviews that mention the service and same-day care where it applies.

  1. Ranked #1 for braces in Des Moines

    #1 Denture Care of Des Moines

    303 E Court Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, United States

    77/10030% of factors measured

    Ranked #1 for braces in Des Moines: emergency visits and evening hours.

    Based on access, services and profile completeness; Google ratings not yet collected.

    • Emergency care
    Hours
    Mon–Sun 12 AM–12 AM

    General dentistryCleaningEmergency careRoot canalExtractionWisdom teethImplantsInvisalign+9 more

  2. #14 Aspen Dental

    3737 Merle Hay Rd Ste 300, Des Moines, IA 50310, United States

    43/10030% of factors measured

    Ranked #14 for braces in Des Moines: evening hours.

    Based on access, services and profile completeness; Google ratings not yet collected.

    Hours
    Mon 9 AM–6 PM · Tue 10 AM–7 PM · Wed–Thu 9 AM–5 PM · Fri 9 AM–1 PM · Sat–Sun closed

    General dentistryCleaningEmergency careRoot canalExtractionWisdom teethImplantsInvisalign+9 more

    In their words

    Aspen Dental in Des Moines,IA offers a wide range of dental services like denture, gum diseases, root canal, crowns and bridges offered by skilled doctors and best lab technicians .To see a dentist near you book online or call during Monday – Friday 6:30am –11:00pm, Saturday 7:00am – 9:00pm, or Sunday 7:00am – 5:30pm EST. As part of our Smile Wide Smile Safe Promise, we are taking proactive steps so that patients, care teams, and communities have a safe, clean care…

    From Aspen Dental's own description. Not part of the ranking.
  3. #15 Waveland Family Dental

    4232 University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311

    37/10030% of factors measured

    Ranked #15 for braces in Des Moines on access and profile data; Google ratings are not yet collected.

    Based on access, services and profile completeness; Google ratings not yet collected.

    Hours
    Mon 7 AM–6 PM · Tue 7 AM–5 PM · Wed 7 AM–6 PM · Thu 7 AM–5 PM · Fri 7 AM–12 PM · Sat–Sun closed

    General dentistryCleaningEmergency careRoot canalExtractionWisdom teethImplantsInvisalign+9 more

    In their words

    We focus on quality care utilizing the latest technology. Our practice is patient-centered. We spend time to educate you on your oral health and provide multiple options in treatment planning. Our experienced staff offers a thorough yet comfortable patient experience. Our administrative team helps you sort through insurance questions and can offer a membership plan for those without insurance. 3rd party financing is also available.

    From Waveland Family Dental's own description. Not part of the ranking.
  4. #16 Dr. Michael J. Davidson, D.D.S.

    8573 Urbandale Ave, Des Moines, IA 50322

    37/10030% of factors measured

    Ranked #16 for braces in Des Moines on access and profile data; Google ratings are not yet collected.

    Based on access, services and profile completeness; Google ratings not yet collected.

    Hours
    Mon–Thu 7 AM–5 PM · Fri 7 AM–12 PM · Sat–Sun closed

    General dentistryCleaningEmergency careRoot canalExtractionWisdom teethImplantsInvisalign+9 more

    In their words

    Dr. Michael Davidson practices general dentistry emphasizing sedation dentistry, all stages of implant restorations, and same-day CEREC crowns and bridges. A graduate of Iowa State University and the University of Iowa School of Dentistry, Dr. Michael's memberships include the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, American Dental Association of Anesthesiology, American Dental Association, and the Des Moines District Dental Society (past president) and previous board member…

    From Dr. Michael J. Davidson, D.D.S.'s own description. Not part of the ranking.
  5. #17 Dr. Kyle J. Connolly, DDS

    4401 SW 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50315

    37/10030% of factors measured

    Ranked #17 for braces in Des Moines on access and profile data; Google ratings are not yet collected.

    Based on access, services and profile completeness; Google ratings not yet collected.

    Hours
    Mon–Wed 8 AM–5 PM · Thu 8:08 AM–5 PM · Fri 8 AM–5 PM · Sat–Sun closed

    General dentistryCleaningEmergency careRoot canalExtractionWisdom teethImplantsInvisalign+9 more

  6. #18 Dental Connections, Inc.

    1111 9th St #190, Des Moines, IA 50314

    37/10030% of factors measured

    Ranked #18 for braces in Des Moines on access and profile data; Google ratings are not yet collected.

    Based on access, services and profile completeness; Google ratings not yet collected.

    Hours
    Mon 8 AM–5 PM · Tue 8 AM–6 PM · Wed–Thu 8 AM–5 PM · Fri 8 AM–2 PM · Sat–Sun closed

    General dentistryCleaningEmergency careRoot canalExtractionWisdom teethImplantsInvisalign+9 more

    In their words

    Established in 1919, Dental Connections is a 501c3 non-profit dental clinic. We provide family dentistry to patients of any age and any income or insurance. We accept Medicaid, Dental Wellness Plan, Hawk-I, Delta Dental, and many others. For patients with no dental insurance, we offer discounted services. We have been serving patients for over 100 years! Our highly-trained and Board-Certified dentists and staff are ready to serve YOU and your entire family.

    From Dental Connections, Inc.'s own description. Not part of the ranking.
  7. #19 Hayley L. Harvey, DDS

    1761 Hickman Rd, Des Moines, IA 50314, United States

    37/10030% of factors measured

    Ranked #19 for braces in Des Moines on access and profile data; Google ratings are not yet collected.

    Based on access, services and profile completeness; Google ratings not yet collected.

    Hours
    Mon–Fri 8 AM–4:30 PM · Sat–Sun closed

    General dentistryCleaningEmergency careRoot canalExtractionWisdom teethImplantsInvisalign+9 more

  8. #21 Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics of Central Iowa

    8515 Douglas Ave STE 26, Des Moines, IA 50322

    37/10030% of factors measured

    Ranked #21 for braces in Des Moines on access and profile data; Google ratings are not yet collected.

    Based on access, services and profile completeness; Google ratings not yet collected.

    Hours
    Mon–Fri 8 AM–4:30 PM · Sat–Sun closed

    General dentistryCleaningEmergency careRoot canalExtractionWisdom teethImplantsInvisalign+9 more

    In their words

    Welcome to Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Central Iowa, a leading pediatric dental and orthodontic practice in Des Moines, Iowa. We are committed to providing comprehensive dental and or orthodontic care to infants, children, adolescents and young adults. Our mission is to provide our patients with the highest standard of care in a pleasant and comfortable environment. We believe in the importance of patient education and will work with your child individually to…

    From Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics of Central Iowa's own description. Not part of the ranking.
  9. #22 Primary Health Care - University Dental

    1200 University Ave #100, Des Moines, IA 50314

    37/10030% of factors measured

    Ranked #22 for braces in Des Moines on access and profile data; Google ratings are not yet collected.

    Based on access, services and profile completeness; Google ratings not yet collected.

    Hours
    Mon–Fri 8 AM–4:30 PM · Sat–Sun closed

    General dentistryCleaningEmergency careRoot canalExtractionWisdom teethImplantsInvisalign+9 more

  10. #23 Kimball & Beecher Family Dentistry

    6150 SE 14th St suite b, Des Moines, IA 50320

    37/10030% of factors measured

    Ranked #23 for braces in Des Moines on access and profile data; Google ratings are not yet collected.

    Based on access, services and profile completeness; Google ratings not yet collected.

    Hours
    Mon–Thu 8 AM–5 PM · Fri 8 AM–2 PM · Sat–Sun closed

    General dentistryCleaningEmergency careRoot canalExtractionWisdom teethImplantsInvisalign+9 more

    In their words

    We create beautiful, healthy smiles. Experience Dentistry Done Different. Are you nervous about receiving dental care? Relax with a heated neck wrap or warm face towel, pop in some headphones and curl up with a blanket or pillow. We take pride in creating a comfortable and relaxing dental experience for you. From the smile when you walk in, to our comfort menu filled with items to make your visit more enjoyable, we are focused on you.

    From Kimball & Beecher Family Dentistry's own description. Not part of the ranking.
  11. #24 Matta Dental Care

    520 SW 9th St Suite 100, Des Moines, IA 50309

    37/10030% of factors measured

    Ranked #24 for braces in Des Moines on access and profile data; Google ratings are not yet collected.

    Based on access, services and profile completeness; Google ratings not yet collected.

    Hours
    Mon–Thu 8 AM–5 PM · Fri 8 AM–2 PM · Sat–Sun closed

    General dentistryCleaningEmergency careRoot canalExtractionWisdom teethImplantsInvisalign+9 more

    In their words

    Dr. Matta is passionate about practicing evidence-based dentistry in order to ensure positive long-term treatment outcomes for his patients. He whole-heartedly believes in a global, comprehensive approach to patient care, and strives to deliver the best dental treatment to his patients.

    From Matta Dental Care's own description. Not part of the ranking.
  12. #25 Young General Dental

    4919 Douglas Ave Ste 10, Des Moines, IA 50310, United States

    37/10030% of factors measured

    Ranked #25 for braces in Des Moines on access and profile data; Google ratings are not yet collected.

    Based on access, services and profile completeness; Google ratings not yet collected.

    Hours
    Mon–Thu 8 AM–5 PM · Fri 7 AM–12 PM · Sat–Sun closed

    General dentistryCleaningEmergency careRoot canalExtractionWisdom teethImplantsInvisalign+9 more

    In their words

    When it comes to putting your best self forward, there’s no better place than your smile. Since 1976, Young General Dental has been keeping Des Moines’ and Urbandale teeth happy and healthy. With a passion for helping others he’s developed over a lifetime of unique experiences, including serving in the Marines, Dr. Trung is transforming lives one smile at a time. Our staff treat every patient like a friend -- and will bend over backwards to help them reach their goals.

    From Young General Dental's own description. Not part of the ranking.

Find the right dentist in Des Moines

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Des Moines, IA

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What service are you looking for?

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What are braces?

Braces straighten teeth and correct bite problems using brackets bonded to the teeth and a wire that applies steady pressure. Options include metal, ceramic (tooth-coloured) and lingual braces placed behind the teeth. Treatment usually lasts 18–36 months.

Braces: specialist or general dentist?

Orthodontists provide most braces treatment and have 2–3 extra years of training in tooth and jaw alignment. Some general dentists offer braces for simpler cases. Complex bites and jaw growth problems are usually best handled by an orthodontist.

1 of Des Moines's 58 clinics offering braces has an orthodontist on staff. See orthodontists in Des Moines

How much do braces cost in Des Moines?

Typical ranges in USD for Des Moines, IA. Your price depends on the tooth, the case and the clinic.

How much do braces cost in Des Moines?
TypeTypical range (USD)BasisAs of
Metal braces$3,000–$7,000DentistsRanked estimate from typical fees, adjusted for Iowa—
Ceramic braces$4,000–$8,000DentistsRanked estimate from typical fees, adjusted for Iowa—
Self-ligating braces$3,500–$8,000DentistsRanked estimate from typical fees, adjusted for Iowa—
Lingual braces$8,000–$12,000DentistsRanked estimate from typical fees, adjusted for Iowa—

Estimates, not quotes. Ask the clinic for a written estimate. Full braces cost guide for Des Moines

What to expect from braces

Typical ranges for most patients. Your dentist's plan may differ.

Braces: visits, chair time and recovery
FactTypically
Typical visitsA consultation, a fitting visit, then adjustments every 4–8 weeks
Chair timeAbout 1–2 hours to fit; adjustments take 15–30 minutes
RecoverySoreness for a few days after fitting and after adjustments
When to see a specialistMost braces cases, and always for jaw growth issues, severe crowding or bite problems

How we ranked Des Moines braces dentists

We scored 58 Des Moines clinics offering braces on 6 factors: reputation 45%, review volume 15%, recency 10%, access 15%, services 10%, profile completeness 5%. 10 were excluded (10 duplicate listings). Data from Google listings and clinic websites, refreshed October 21, 2026.

Paid placement never changes a rank or score. Featured clinics are paid, labelled, limited to 3 and shown above the ranking, outside it.

Read the full method: formula, sources and exclusions

DR Score factors and weights
FactorWeightComputed fromIn Des Moines data
Reputation45%Bayesian-adjusted Google star ratingMeasured
Review volume15%log10(review count) against the city maximumMeasured
Recency10%Share of reviews in the last 12 monthsMeasured
Access15%Evenings, Saturday, Sunday, same-day/emergency, accepting new patientsMeasured
Services10%Services offered out of 17Measured
Profile completeness5%Named dentists, years open, languages, insurance, photosMeasured

Braces in Des Moines: frequently asked questions

Who is the best braces dentist in Des Moines?

Denture Care of Des Moines ranks #1 of 58 Des Moines clinics offering braces by DentistsRanked service score. It has emergency visits and evening hours. Dr. Atticus Q Hove DDS ranks #2 (emergency visits and evening hours). The score weighs reputation, access, services and profile data, plus a bonus for an orthodontist on staff.

How much do braces cost in Des Moines, IA?

Braces in Des Moines typically costs $3,000–$7,000 USD. By type: metal braces $3,000–$7,000; ceramic braces $4,000–$8,000; self-ligating braces $3,500–$8,000. These are estimates, not quotes. Basis: DentistsRanked estimate from typical fees, adjusted for Iowa. Ask the clinic for a written estimate.

Do general dentists in Des Moines do braces?

Yes. 57 of the 58 Des Moines clinics offering braces do not list an orthodontist, so general dentists there typically provide it. 1 lists an orthodontist on staff. Typical reasons to see an orthodontist: most braces cases, and always for jaw growth issues, severe crowding or bite problems.

Are braces covered by insurance or Medicaid in Iowa?

Dental plans with orthodontic benefits often cover part of braces for children, commonly up to a lifetime maximum. Adult coverage is less common. Medicaid covers braces for children only when medically necessary. Check your plan.

Do braces hurt?

Getting braces fitted is usually not painful. Most patients feel soreness for a few days afterward and after each adjustment, which over-the-counter pain relief often manages. Brackets can rub the cheeks at first, and orthodontic wax helps.

Which Des Moines braces dentists are open on Saturday?

4 of 58 Des Moines clinics offering braces list Saturday hours, including Denture Care of Des Moines, Dr. Atticus Q Hove DDS and Emergency Dental Care USA. Hours come from each clinic's listing; check with the clinic before you go, since holiday and summer hours can change.

How many dentists offer braces in Des Moines?

58 Des Moines clinics list braces in our data. 1 of them lists an orthodontist on staff. They include Foster Orthodontics (formerly Willham & Foster Orthodontics). 4 are open Saturdays. Google ratings are on file for 1 of them. Counts update when clinics change their profiles.

Update log for Des Moines

  1. : DR Scores recalculated for 64 clinics.
  2. : 10 duplicate listings merged.