Three Leaf Orthodontics serves patients in Waxhaw and South Charlotte, NC, with specialist-level care in braces, Invisalign®, and comprehensive orthodontic treatment for kids, teens, and adults.
Below are answers to the most common questions families in the Charlotte area ask before starting treatment with Dr. Shane Markey.
About the Practice
Who is the orthodontist at Three Leaf Orthodontics?
The orthodontist at Three Leaf Orthodontics is Dr. Shane Markey, DDS, MS, a board-certified specialist with more than 25 years of experience in the field, treating patients in the Waxhaw and South Charlotte, NC areas. Dr. Markey earned his Bachelor of Dental Surgery at the University of Liverpool, his DDS from New York University College of Dentistry, and his orthodontic specialty certificate and Master of Science from the Eastman Institute for Oral Health at the University of Rochester. Originally from Ireland, he is known for a conservative, patient-first philosophy and for taking time to explain each step of treatment in clear language. Dr. Markey treats children, teens, and adults across both the Waxhaw and SouthPark offices
Why choose Three Leaf Orthodontics over another orthodontist near me?
Three Leaf Orthodontics offers specialist-level orthodontic care in Waxhaw and South Charlotte, NC with a conservative, patient-first philosophy that many Charlotte-area families appreciate. You work directly with Dr. Shane Markey, an orthodontic specialist with more than 25 years of experience and thousands of cases treated. The practice uses modern technology including digital 3D scanning and low-radiation imaging, offers before and after school appointments at both locations, and communicates regularly with your general dentist throughout treatment. Flexible payment plans, family discounts, and complimentary consultations make starting easier. Many patients choose Three Leaf for the blend of clinical expertise, friendly team culture, and consistent experience at both the Waxhaw and SouthPark offices.
Getting Started
Do I need a referral to see an orthodontist?
You do not need a referral to see an orthodontist in North Carolina, and Three Leaf Orthodontics welcomes self-referred patients at both the Waxhaw and South Charlotte offices. Many families are referred by their general dentist, but you can schedule a complimentary initial consultation directly. If your dentist recommended an orthodontic evaluation, it is helpful to share that context so Dr. Markey can review relevant records. Throughout treatment, Three Leaf communicates regularly with your general dentist about progress and care coordination, so your regular cleanings and orthodontic visits stay aligned. Whether you are considering braces, Invisalign®, or an evaluation for a child, you can schedule your consultation at the location most convenient to you.
What happens at a first orthodontic consultation?
Your first visit to Three Leaf Orthodontics is a complimentary consultation that takes about an hour at your selected location, which becomes your primary office for care. The team reviews your medical and dental history, takes digital photographs, and captures X-rays or 3D images as needed. Dr. Markey then performs a clinical exam, walks you through any problem areas, and explains appropriate treatment options in plain language. You leave with a personalized treatment plan, a timeline, and a clear understanding of insurance coverage and payment options. Because Dr. Markey uses a conservative approach, he will sometimes recommend monitoring rather than treating right away, especially for younger children in the Charlotte area who are still growing.
Is there a consultation fee at Three Leaf Orthodontics?
There is no consultation fee at Three Leaf Orthodontics. Initial consultations are complimentary at both the Waxhaw and South Charlotte offices, so you can explore your options without financial pressure. The visit lasts about an hour and includes a review of your dental history, digital photos, any needed X-rays or 3D imaging, a clinical exam with Dr. Markey, and a discussion of treatment options, timelines, insurance, and payment plans. This format gives families in the Waxhaw and Charlotte areas enough information to make a confident decision about whether to start treatment, wait and monitor, or consider alternatives. Scheduling a consultation does not commit you to starting care.
How often will I need to come in for appointments during treatment?
During active treatment at Three Leaf Orthodontics, most patients come in every 4 to 8 weeks, depending upon their case, and whether they are in braces or Invisalign®. Braces appointments typically involve a wire change or bracket adjustment, while Invisalign® visits focus on checking progress and handing off the next set of aligners. Before and after school appointment times are available at both the Waxhaw and South Charlotte offices to minimize missed class or work time. The exact frequency depends on your treatment plan, and the team schedules follow-ups at the end of each visit so you always know what is next. Between visits, you are always welcome to contact us for repairs, questions, or urgent concerns.
Braces FAQs
How do braces work?
Braces work by applying gentle, continuous pressure to your teeth that gradually moves them into the correct position. Small brackets are bonded to each tooth and connected by a thin archwire, and Dr. Markey adjusts the wire and components over time to guide the teeth. At Three Leaf Orthodontics in Waxhaw and South Charlotte, patients generally come in every 4 to 8 weeks for the wire to be changed or adjusted. Modern braces are smaller, smoother, and more efficient than earlier generations, which means fewer appointments and less discomfort. Braces can correct crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, crossbites, open bites, and alignment issues. Most cases last 1 to 2 years, followed by a retainer phase to protect your results.
How long does braces treatment take?
Most patients at Three Leaf Orthodontics wear braces for 1 to 2 years, though the exact timeline depends on case complexity, age, and how well you follow care instructions. Simple alignment corrections may finish in closer to 12 months, while more involved bite corrections can take longer. In Waxhaw and South Charlotte, Dr. Markey builds a personalized plan at your consultation and sets realistic expectations up front. Missing appointments, broken brackets, or not wearing prescribed elastics can extend treatment. Once active treatment ends, a retainer phase keeps teeth in their new position long term.
Do braces hurt?
Braces do not cause sharp pain, but most patients feel mild soreness or pressure for a few days after placement and after each adjustment. This is a normal response to your teeth starting to move. At Three Leaf Orthodontics, patients in Waxhaw and South Charlotte usually find that over-the-counter pain relievers, soft foods, and orthodontic wax on any irritated spots are enough to stay comfortable. The modern brackets and wires used at the practice, including the Empower and Radiance Plus systems, are designed to apply gentler, more consistent pressure than older braces, which means less discomfort overall. If you experience persistent pain or a poking wire, the team is available at either office to resolve the issue quickly.
What foods should I avoid with braces?
With braces, you should avoid foods that are hard, sticky, or very chewy, since these can break brackets or bend wires. Common culprits include ice, hard candy, caramels, taffy, gum, popcorn, nuts, beef jerky, and hard pretzels. Crunchy items like raw carrots, apples, and corn on the cob should be cut into small pieces rather than bitten directly. Patients at Three Leaf Orthodontics in Waxhaw and South Charlotte are encouraged to stick to softer options like pasta, eggs, yogurt, soft fruits, steamed vegetables, and tender proteins, especially right after placement or adjustments. Limiting sugary and acidic drinks also helps protect enamel around the brackets. Following these guidelines reduces emergency repair visits and helps keep your treatment on schedule.
What is the difference between metal and ceramic braces?
Metal and ceramic braces work the same way but differ in appearance and material. Metal braces use stainless steel brackets and are the most common, durable, and typically the most affordable option. Ceramic braces use tooth-colored or clear brackets that blend with your teeth, making them a more discreet choice for adults and image-conscious teens. At Three Leaf Orthodontics, patients in Waxhaw and South Charlotte can choose the Twin or Empower metal bracket systems or the Radiance Plus clear ceramic system, which is one of the clearest ceramic twin brackets available. Treatment time and results are comparable between the two. Dr. Markey will help you weigh appearance, lifestyle, and cost during your complimentary consultation at your selected location.
Invisalign® FAQs
What is Invisalign® and how does it work?
Invisalign® is a series of clear, custom-made aligners that gradually move your teeth into position without metal brackets or wires. At Three Leaf Orthodontics in Waxhaw and South Charlotte, Dr. Markey takes a digital 3D scan of your teeth using the iTero Element 2 scanner, then designs a sequence of aligners that each shift your teeth slightly closer to the final result. You wear each set for about 1 to 2 weeks, typically 20 to 22 hours per day, removing them only to eat, drink anything other than water, and brush. Follow-up visits monitor progress and switch you to the next stage. Invisalign® is nearly invisible, easy to keep clean, and suitable for most teens and adults in the Charlotte area.
Is Invisalign® as effective as braces?
Invisalign® can be just as effective as braces for most common orthodontic issues, including crowding, spacing, and many bite corrections, as long as you wear the aligners consistently. Compliance is the key variable, since aligners only move teeth while they are in your mouth. At Three Leaf Orthodontics in Waxhaw and South Charlotte, Dr. Markey evaluates each case to determine whether Invisalign®, traditional braces, or ceramic braces will produce the best result for your specific bite. Highly complex cases involving significant jaw discrepancies may still be better served by braces or a combined approach. During your consultation, you receive a straightforward recommendation based on what your teeth actually need rather than a one-size-fits-all answer.
Are mail-order aligners safe?
Mail-order or direct-to-consumer aligners carry meaningful risks because they skip in-person evaluation, X-rays, and ongoing supervision by a specialist. Orthodontic treatment moves living bone and tissue, and problems such as bite imbalances, loose teeth, gum recession, or unresolved underlying issues can occur without proper diagnosis. At Three Leaf Orthodontics in Waxhaw and South Charlotte, every patient receives a complete clinical exam, imaging, and a treatment plan supervised by Dr. Markey, an orthodontic specialist with 25 plus years of dental experience. If a concern arises during treatment, you have a local office and team to address it quickly. If you are considering mail-order aligners, scheduling a complimentary consultation first is a smart way to understand what is actually happening with your teeth.
Does Three Leaf Orthodontics offer Invisalign® for teens?
Yes, Three Leaf Orthodontics offers Invisalign® Teen at both the Waxhaw and South Charlotte offices. Invisalign® Teen is designed specifically for younger patients and includes compliance indicators that show whether aligners are being worn enough, ensuring compliance does not slip, which can happen during busy school and sports schedules. Teens in the Waxhaw and Charlotte areas often choose Invisalign® Teen because the aligners are nearly invisible, removable for sports and instrument playing, and easier to clean than traditional braces. Dr. Markey evaluates each teen individually to confirm Invisalign® is the right fit based on growth stage, compliance likelihood, and the specific bite and alignment issues that need correction.
Kids & Teens
At what age should my child first see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic screening by age 7. At that age, enough permanent teeth have erupted for Dr. Markey to evaluate bite development, jaw growth, and crowding concerns. Three Leaf Orthodontics offers complimentary screenings for kids at both the Waxhaw and South Charlotte offices. Many young patients do not need treatment right away, and Dr. Markey takes a conservative approach that often involves monitoring rather than intervening too early. When early treatment is warranted, it can correct issues like crossbites, narrow jaws, or thumb-sucking habits while a child is still growing, which may simplify or shorten care later. If your child is 7 or older, a screening is a good next step.
What is early or Phase 1 orthodontic treatment?
Early orthodontic treatment, often called Phase 1, is a limited course of treatment performed while a child still has most of their baby teeth, typically between ages 7 and 10. The goal is to address issues that are best corrected during active growth, such as narrow jaws, crossbites, severe crowding, or habits like thumb-sucking that are affecting development. At Three Leaf Orthodontics in Waxhaw and South Charlotte, Dr. Markey only recommends Phase 1 when the benefits clearly outweigh waiting. After Phase 1, a rest period follows while more permanent teeth erupt, sometimes leading into Phase 2 with full braces or aligners. Not every child needs early treatment, and honest, conservative guidance is a core part of how the practice evaluates young patients.
What is two-phase orthodontic treatment?
Two-phase orthodontic treatment combines an early Phase 1 course while a child is growing with a later Phase 2 course of treatment after most permanent teeth have erupted. Phase 1, usually between ages 7 and 10, addresses skeletal or developmental issues that are easier to correct during growth, such as a narrow upper jaw or a significant crossbite. A rest period follows during which the remaining permanent teeth come in naturally. Phase 2, typically in the early teen years, uses braces or Invisalign® to finalize tooth alignment and bite. At Three Leaf Orthodontics in Waxhaw and South Charlotte, Dr. Markey recommends two-phase treatment selectively, only when it truly benefits the child. Many kids do well with a single phase of treatment starting in adolescence.
How do I decide between Invisalign® and braces for my child or teen?
The best choice depends on three things: the complexity of your child’s case, their daily responsibility level, and their lifestyle. Braces stay on 24 hours a day and keep moving teeth regardless of compliance, which makes them a reliable option for younger kids or patients who may forget aligners. Invisalign® requires wearing the trays 20 to 22 hours per day, every day, so it is best suited to teens who can follow a routine consistently. At Three Leaf Orthodontics in Waxhaw and South Charlotte, Dr. Markey walks parents through a specific recommendation at the complimentary consultation based on the child’s bite, age, and personality. Some complex cases are better handled with braces regardless of preference, and Dr. Markey will say so clearly rather than default to whichever option the family prefers.
How much responsibility does my teen need to take with Invisalign® treatment?
Invisalign® requires a real daily commitment from your teen. Aligners must be worn 20 to 22 hours per day, removed only for meals and brushing, and switched to the next set on schedule. If aligners are left out of the mouth during lunch, after-school snacks, or overnight, teeth stop moving and treatment falls behind. Your teen also needs to track where the current and previous aligners are, keep them in the case when not in the mouth, and brush each time they eat before putting the trays back in. At Three Leaf Orthodontics in Waxhaw and South Charlotte, Dr. Markey uses Invisalign Teen compliance indicators to monitor actual wear time. If a teen struggles with consistency, braces are often the more forgiving choice.
What happens if my child loses or breaks an Invisalign® aligner?
If your child loses or breaks an Invisalign® aligner, contact Three Leaf Orthodontics right away at either the Waxhaw or South Charlotte office. The team will advise whether to move back to the previous set, move ahead to the next set, or order a replacement, depending on how far along your child is in that stage. In the meantime, your child should wear the most recent set they have to prevent teeth from shifting back. Do not let an aligner go unreplaced for more than a day or two, since lost wear time can add weeks to total treatment length.
What happens if my child breaks a bracket or has a wire come loose?
If your child breaks a bracket or has a wire come loose, call Three Leaf Orthodontics at (704) 727-6868 to schedule a repair visit at the Waxhaw or South Charlotte office. In the meantime, you can cover a poking wire with orthodontic wax to keep the inside of the cheek or lip comfortable, and a loose bracket that is still attached to the archwire can usually be left in place temporarily. Avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy foods, which are the most common cause of breakage. Broken brackets do not usually cause pain, but unrepaired breakages can slow treatment because the tooth stops moving correctly. The team schedules repairs quickly, especially for urgent issues before school, sports, or travel.
Adult Treatment
Can adults get braces or Invisalign®?
Yes, adults are an increasingly large part of the orthodontic patient base, and Three Leaf Orthodontics treats adult patients regularly at both the Waxhaw and South Charlotte offices. Adult options include traditional metal braces, clear ceramic braces, and Invisalign®, each chosen based on your goals, lifestyle, and case complexity. Many Charlotte-area professionals prefer Invisalign® or ceramic braces because they are discreet in workplace and social settings. Treatment time for adults is often similar to teens, though adults no longer have active jaw growth, which can influence the treatment plan. Dr. Markey has extensive experience with adult cases and is known for clear communication about what to expect, which makes the process straightforward to fit into a busy schedule.
Can orthodontic treatment help with sleep apnea or breathing issues?
Orthodontics can play a role in managing certain sleep-disordered breathing and airway concerns, particularly when the shape or size of the jaws contributes to a narrow airway. Three Leaf Orthodontics offers airway orthodontics at both the Waxhaw and South Charlotte offices, where Dr. Markey evaluates how jaw and facial development may be affecting airway function. Treatment may involve expanding a narrow upper jaw, guiding jaw growth in children, or coordinating care with a sleep physician or ENT for adults. Airway-focused orthodontics is not a substitute for a formal sleep study or a CPAP when medically indicated, but it can be a valuable part of a broader care plan. A consultation is the right first step if you have concerns about breathing.
Cost & Insurance
How much do braces or Invisalign® cost in Waxhaw and South Charlotte?
Orthodontic treatment in the Waxhaw and South Charlotte area typically ranges from about $3,500 to $7,500 for a full course of braces or Invisalign®, depending on case complexity, treatment length, and the appliance type chosen. At Three Leaf Orthodontics, the exact fee is confirmed after a complimentary consultation and full evaluation with Dr. Markey. Several factors affect pricing, including whether treatment is single-phase or two-phase, or whether ceramic braces or Invisalign® are selected.. The practice offers flexible payment plans through OrthoFi, accepts most major orthodontic insurance, and provides family and pay-in-full discounts. Families receive a transparent, itemized plan before starting, with no hidden fees added later.
Does Three Leaf Orthodontics accept insurance?
Three Leaf Orthodontics accepts most major dental and orthodontic insurance plans. At your complimentary consultation in Waxhaw or South Charlotte, the team reviews your specific benefits, confirms any orthodontic lifetime maximum, and explains how coverage applies to your proposed treatment. Many dental insurance plans in North Carolina include an orthodontic benefit that pays a percentage of treatment up to a set lifetime maximum per person, and flexible spending accounts or health savings accounts can usually be used for the remaining balance. The office helps you maximize coverage by filing claims on your behalf where possible. The team will gather your insurance information from you while making your initial, complimentary consultation appointment, so they can verify benefits for you, so you may receive a fully detailed and transparent plan for your treatment.
Does Three Leaf Orthodontics offer payment plans?
Yes, Three Leaf Orthodontics offers flexible payment plans through OrthoFi, an online financial management system that lets families tailor a plan to their budget. Options typically include low down payments and flexible monthly installments spread across the length of treatment, which makes braces and Invisalign® affordable for households in Waxhaw, South Charlotte, and surrounding communities. You can manage your account online, view invoices, make payments, and print receipts from home. During your consultation, the team walks through available plan structures so you can select one that works alongside your insurance coverage. The goal is to remove cost as a barrier to quality orthodontic care and to make monthly payments predictable from day one.
Are family or pay-in-full discounts available at Three Leaf Orthodontics?
Yes, Three Leaf Orthodontics offers both family discounts and pay-in-full discounts. Families with multiple members in active orthodontic treatment at the same time, whether at the Waxhaw or South Charlotte office, may qualify for a multi-patient discount, which is common given how many siblings and parents start treatment together at the practice. Patients who pay the entire cost of treatment upfront also receive a discount as a thank-you for paying in full. The specific discount amounts and eligibility are reviewed during your complimentary consultation along with insurance benefits and payment plan options. Dr. Markey and the team aim to make orthodontic care affordable for every household, and combining these discounts with insurance often reduces total out-of-pocket cost significantly.
After Treatment
Why do I need a retainer after orthodontic treatment?
Retainers are essential because teeth have a natural tendency to shift back toward their original positions, especially in the months and years immediately after active treatment ends. The bone and tissues around your teeth need time to stabilize in their new alignment, and a retainer holds everything in place while that settling happens. At Three Leaf Orthodontics, patients in Waxhaw and South Charlotte receive a customized retainer and a wear schedule from Dr. Markey at the end of braces or Invisalign® treatment. Skipping retainer use, even years after finishing, is the most common cause of relapse. Protecting your investment in a new smile is as important as the active treatment itself, which is why the retention phase is taken seriously at the practice.
How long do I need to wear a retainer?
Retainer wear is typically recommended for life, though the schedule changes over time. Most patients at Three Leaf Orthodontics start by wearing their retainer full time for several months, then transition to nighttime wear once teeth have stabilized. Nighttime wear a few nights per week often continues indefinitely to maintain results. Dr. Markey customizes the schedule based on your case, age, and retention needs at either the Waxhaw or South Charlotte office. Teeth can shift at any age due to natural bone remodeling, bite forces, and changes that come with time, so consistent long-term retainer wear is the simplest way to protect the results you worked for. A small nightly habit preserves years of orthodontic progress.
How do I clean and care for my retainer?
Clean your retainer daily to keep it fresh and free of buildup. Brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and cool water each time you remove it, and soak it periodically in a retainer cleaning solution for a deeper clean. Never rinse or soak a retainer in hot water, since heat can warp its shape and ruin the fit. When the retainer is not in your mouth, store it in its case rather than a napkin or pocket, which is how most retainers are accidentally thrown out or broken. Patients at Three Leaf Orthodontics in Waxhaw and South Charlotte can bring any retainer questions or repair needs to either office, and the team will advise on replacement if needed.
Technology
What technology does Three Leaf Orthodontics use?
Three Leaf Orthodontics uses modern digital technology at both the Waxhaw and South Charlotte offices to make treatment more accurate and comfortable. The iTero Element 2 scanner captures a detailed 3D model of your teeth and gums in minutes, eliminating the need for messy putty impressions and allowing digital Invisalign® planning. The Planmeca ProMax 3D imaging system produces low-radiation 3D views of your teeth, jaws, and surrounding structures, which helps Dr. Markey diagnose complex issues and plan treatment precisely. For braces, the practice uses the Empower metal bracket system and the Radiance Plus ceramic bracket system, both engineered for predictable movement and patient comfort.
Locations
Where are the Three Leaf Orthodontics offices located?
Three Leaf Orthodontics has two locations serving the greater Charlotte area. The Waxhaw office is at 8412 New Town Road, Suite A, Waxhaw, NC 28173, near the intersection of New Town Road and Providence Road, convenient for families in Waxhaw, Marvin, Weddington, and surrounding Union County communities. The South Charlotte office is at 3151 Apex Drive, Suite 102E, Charlotte, NC 28211 in the SouthPark area, convenient for patients in South Charlotte, Myers Park, Ballantyne, and Matthews. Both offices are brand new, purpose-built facilities with the same doctor, team, and standard of care. You can start treatment at either location or switch between them as needed.
What are the office hours in Waxhaw and South Charlotte?
The Waxhaw office is open Monday through Thursday from 8 AM to 5 PM and Friday from 8 AM to noon. The South Charlotte office offers hours designed to work for patients in the SouthPark area, with before and after school appointment times available to reduce time out of the classroom or workplace. You can call (704) 727-6868 to confirm current hours at either location or to request a specific time slot. Three Leaf Orthodontics reserves early morning and late afternoon appointments at both offices for working adults and families in Waxhaw, Charlotte, and surrounding communities. Scheduling is flexible, and patients can select their appointments at the location which is most convenient for the duration of their treatment.
Ready to get started? Schedule a complimentary consultation with Three Leaf Orthodontics at our Waxhaw or South Charlotte office by calling (704)-727-6868 or by contacting us here.