Confident Smiles
Start Here
Trusted by Southwest Florida Families for Over 30 Years
From braces to Invisalign®, Dr. John Richards and Dr. Whitney Richards provide personalized orthodontic care for children, teens, and adults in Fort Myers and Cape Coral.
Already a patient? Visit our existing patient's page.
Confident Smiles
Start Here
Trusted by Southwest Florida Families for Over 30 Years
Already a patient? Visit our existing patient's page.
Adolescent Braces
Healthy development. Confident smiles. Lifelong results.
Adult Braces
It's never too late to love your smile.
Invisalign
Clear, comfortable treatment for modern lifestyles.
A Practice Built on Trust & Community
For more than three decades, we've had the privilege of treating generations of Southwest Florida families. Many of our new patients come from referrals by former patients, local dentists, and families who trust us with their orthodontic care.
We believe great orthodontics is about more than creating beautiful smiles—it's about building lasting relationships and providing an exceptional experience from start to finish.
Orthodontic Care for Every Stage of Life
From a child’s first evaluation to adult smile transformations - personalized orthodontic treatment for every age, every goal, every smile.
Orthodontic Care for Every Stage of Life
From a child’s first evaluation to adult smile transformations - personalized orthodontic treatment for every age, every goal, every smile.
Early Treatment
Guiding developing smiles early leads to healthier alignment and easier treatment down the road.
Palatal Expanders
Creating more space in a growing mouth improves alignment and supports long - term oral health.
Adolescent Treatment
The teen years are the ideal window for braces - results come faster when the jaw is still growing.
Invisalign for Teens
All the results of traditional braces with the freedom and confidence of clear, removable aligners.
Adult Treatment
A straighter smile improves confidence, comfort, and how you feel in every room you walk into.
Invisalign
Clear aligners that fit seamlessly into your life - discreet, comfortable, and remarkably effective.
Why Choose Us
With decades of combined experience and deep roots in Fort Myers and Cape Coral, our doctors use modern technology and proven techniques to deliver advanced, personalized orthodontic care for patients of every age.
Board-Certified, Personalized Care
Every treatment plan is customized around your smile and goals
30+ Years in
Southwest Florida
Trusted by families throughout Fort Myers and Cape Coral for over three decades.
Modern Orthodontic Technology
Advanced appliances and digital treatment planning designed for comfort and efficiency.
All Ages Welcome
Kids, teens, and adults
Flexible Payment Plans
Options for every budget
Two Convenient Locations
Fort Myers and Cape Coral
Meet the Doctors
Dr. John M. Richards &
Dr. Whitney Richards
30+ Years.
Two Generations.
One Standard of Care.
What Can Orthodontic Treatment Improve
Orthodontic care does more than enhance your smile - it can improve your oral health, bite function, and overall confidence.
Crowded or Crooked Teeth
Straighten misaligned or overlapping teeth for a healthier, more confident smile.
Gaps Between Teeth
Close unwanted spaces to improve appearance and make cleaning easier.
Overbites, Underbites & Crossbites
Correct bite issues to improve function, comfort, and long-term oral health.
Smile Balance & Facial Harmony
Improve the way your smile looks and supports your overall facial appearance.
Orthodontic Care Built Around Your Family
Personalized orthodontic care for children, teens, and adults - designed around your goals, lifestyle, and schedule.
Trusted for Routine Care and Complex Cases Alike
For over 30 years, patients and dental professionals across Southwest Florida have trusted Richards & Associates for everything from routine orthodontic treatment to complex cases requiring advanced expertise.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should my child first see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children receive their first
orthodontic evaluation around age 7. Early evaluations allow us to identify developing issues
and determine the ideal timing for treatment if needed.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Most orthodontic treatment plans last between 12 and 24 months, depending on the
complexity of the case and the type of treatment selected.
What is the difference between braces and Invisalign?
Traditional braces use brackets and wires to move teeth, while Invisalign uses a series of
clear removable aligners. Both are highly effective, and we’ll help determine which option is
best for your lifestyle and goals.
Do you offer Invisalign for teens and adults?
Yes. We offer Invisalign treatment for both teens and adults looking for a more discreet
orthodontic option.
Can adults still get braces or Invisalign?
Absolutely. Orthodontic treatment is increasingly popular among adults, and it’s never too
late to improve your smile and bite alignment.
Do braces hurt?
Patients may experience mild soreness for a few days after adjustments or when starting a
new Invisalign aligner, but most discomfort is temporary and manageable.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. We offer flexible payment options designed to make orthodontic treatment affordable for
families and individuals.
Will insurance help cover orthodontic treatment?
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits. Our team will help review your
coverage and maximize available benefits whenever possible.
What if I feel anxious about dental visits?
Our team focuses on gentle, patient-centered care and will work with you to ensure a comfortable and stress-free experience.
How often will I need appointments?
Most orthodontic patients visit our office approximately every 6–8 weeks so we can monitor
progress and make any necessary adjustments.
What happens if I have an orthodontic emergency?
If you experience a broken bracket, poking wire, or other orthodontic issue, contact our office
and we’ll schedule you as soon as possible to address the problem.
Real Families. Real Smiles.
I absolutely love this office staff. They have made my Invisalign process such a breeze with zero stress. They work with my schedule to help me get appointments that work for my schedule and I really appreciate the overall positive vibe of the office. Dr. Richards is amazing and so are the assistants like Julie!
Dr John Richards did my braces, so years later when I needed to revisit, (I wasn't consistent with retainers) and met with his daughter, Dr Whitney Richards and loved her. I completed a short stint of Invisalign and got new retainers. They are truly the best in town.
Super grateful and happy your work team are unique and special. Thank you for being so dedicated and professional we will be eternally grateful. Johandiell family 💙
