Looking for an orthodontist in New Orleans who does more than straighten teeth? At Hamada Orthodontics, Dr. Allison Hamada — a Columbia University-trained orthodontist with over 20 years of experience — takes a different approach.
We focus on how your teeth, jaw, and airway work together, because a great smile should also mean better breathing, better sleep, and a better quality of life. With three offices in Metairie, Luling, and Destrehan, we make it easy for families across Jefferson Parish, St. Charles Parish, and the entire Greater New Orleans metro to get expert orthodontic care close to home.
What You’ll Learn on This Page
- Why hundreds of families drive past other orthodontists to see Dr. Hamada
- The connection between your child’s crowded teeth and why they aren’t sleeping well
- How one evaluation can reveal problems most orthodontists might not even look for
- What airway-centric orthodontics actually means (and why it matters for your family)
- Treatment options for kids, teens, and adults — and what each one costs
- Why some adults are finally getting answers for TMJ pain, headaches, and snoring
- How to tell if your child needs early intervention or if it’s fine to wait
- Same-day starts for busy families who don’t want to wait
- Three office locations so you’re never more than a short drive away
Why Families Across Greater New Orleans Choose Hamada Orthodontics
Most orthodontists focus on lining teeth up. That matters, obviously. But Dr. Hamada has spent her career studying why teeth get crooked in the first place. She began to see the connection between jaw structure, airway health, and overall wellness. That means when your child comes in for what seems like a routine bite issue, we’re also evaluating their breathing, their sleep quality, and how their jaw is developing.
This approach — called airway-centric orthodontics — is what sets Hamada Orthodontics apart from every other orthodontic practice in the New Orleans area. It’s also the reason families drive from Kenner, Harahan, River Ridge, Lakeview, Mid-City, Uptown, and across the Westbank to see us.
Here’s what it looks like in real life: a child comes in because their teeth are crowded. During the evaluation, Dr. Hamada notices the jaw is too narrow, which is restricting the airway. That narrow jaw can be one of the contributing factors as to why the child snores, sleeps with their mouth open, and can’t focus at school. We don’t just fix the crowding — we optimize the jaws and open the airway. Parents tell us their child is sleeping through the night for the first time in years.
To see my daughter so much better, happier, to be making friends, trying new foods and sleeping through the night… It’s life-changing.
Hamada Orthodontics PatientThat’s not a rare story around here. It’s what we do every day.
Orthodontic Services for Kids, Teens, and Adults
Whether you’re bringing your child in for their first evaluation, your teenager is ready for braces, or you’re an adult who wants to finally address that bite issue you’ve been living with, we have options that fit your situation. And if your schedule is packed, we offer same-day starts — you can have your consultation and begin treatment in a single visit.
A Quick Look at Your Options
| Treatment | Best For | What to Know | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metal Braces (Pitts21) | Kids, teens, and adults with moderate to complex cases | Self-ligating brackets that move teeth faster with less discomfort than traditional braces | 12–24 months |
| Clear Aligners / Invisalign | Teens and adults who want a discreet option | Removable, nearly invisible trays — no food restrictions, easy to clean | 6–18 months |
| Early Intervention (Kids) | Children showing signs of airway or jaw development issues | Addresses breathing, sleep, and jaw growth before problems get worse | 6–12 months (Phase 1) |
| Adult Jaw Expansion (MARPE) | Adults with narrow palates, breathing issues, or relapsed orthodontics | Non-surgical palatal expansion — improves airway without jaw surgery | 3–6 months + follow-up |
| TMJ / Myofunctional Therapy | Anyone with jaw pain, clicking, headaches, or grinding | Treats the root cause — not just a nightguard | Varies by case |
Every treatment plan starts with a free consultation during which Dr. Hamada evaluates your specific situation and walks you through the best path forward. No guesswork. No cookie-cutter plans. And if you’re ready to get started the same day, we can make that happen.
Braces
Metal braces are still one of the most effective orthodontic treatments available, especially for complex cases. We use Pitts21 brackets — a self-ligating system that moves teeth more efficiently with less discomfort than traditional brackets. Whether it’s braces for kids in Metairie, a teenager getting ready for senior photos, or an adult who’s finally ready to address a bite issue, braces deliver consistent, reliable results.
Clear Aligners and Invisalign
If you’d rather not deal with brackets and wires, clear aligners may be the right fit. Invisalign in Metairie is one of the most popular treatments we offer — custom trays that shift your teeth gradually, are removable for eating and brushing, and are nearly invisible. Dr. Hamada will let you know during your consultation whether aligners can get you the results you’re looking for.
Early Orthodontic Treatment for Kids
If your child snores, grinds their teeth, breathes through their mouth, or has trouble sleeping, those are signs worth paying attention to. Many parents assume these things are normal or that kids will grow out of them. In a lot of cases, the real issue is how the jaw is developing — and early intervention can make a significant difference. Some children are even misdiagnosed with ADHD when the real issue is a breathing problem.
Dr. Hamada’s approach to growth and development guidance means we’re looking at the whole picture, not just waiting for all the adult teeth to show up before taking action.
Dr. Hamada and her staff are incredible! They are extremely knowledgeable and thorough in explaining the entire process to myself and my daughter.
Hamada Orthodontics PatientAdult Orthodontics
It’s never too late. Adults make up a growing percentage of our patients, and many of them come to us for reasons beyond cosmetics. TMJ pain, headaches, poor sleep, teeth that have shifted after previous orthodontic work — these are all things we treat regularly. For adults who need jaw expansion, we offer MARPE (Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion), a non-surgical option that can widen the palate and improve breathing even after the jaw has stopped growing.
TMJ and Jaw Pain Treatment
If you’re dealing with jaw clicking, popping, locking, or chronic headaches, the issue may be structural. A lot of people live with TMJ disorder for years because they’ve been told to just wear a nightguard. Our TMJ and myofunctional care program goes deeper — we find the root cause and treat it.
Sleep and Breathing
Snoring, mouth breathing, and sleep-disordered breathing affect more people than you’d think — and they’re usually connected to how the jaw and airway are structured. Our sleep and breathing treatments help both kids and adults who haven’t found answers through traditional medical routes.
You Deserve to Feel Good About This Decision
Choosing an orthodontist is a big deal. You’re trusting someone with your smile — or your kid’s smile — and you want to know you’re making the right call. Not just clinically, but personally. You want to walk out of that first appointment feeling like someone actually listened to you, explained things in a way that made sense, and gave you a plan you believe in.
That’s the experience we work to create for every single patient.
Dr. Hamada doesn’t rush through consultations. She doesn’t hand you off to someone else. She sits with you, explains what she’s seeing, and tells you the truth — even if the truth is “you don’t need treatment right now.” There’s no pressure to start today, no scare tactics, no upselling.
We want you to go home after your consultation and feel settled. Not anxious. Not second-guessing. Just confident that you found the right person and the right plan.
The process from beginning to end was exceptional. Dr. Hamada and the entire staff were welcoming and made my experience very easy. They were extremely accommodating, comforting, invested, and knowledgeable.
Hamada Orthodontics PatientWhat Sets Us Apart from Other New Orleans Orthodontists
You have choices when it comes to orthodontic care in the Greater New Orleans area. Here’s how Hamada Orthodontics compares to what you’ll find at most practices.
| Hamada Orthodontics | Most Orthodontic Practices | |
|---|---|---|
| Treatment philosophy | Airway-first — evaluates breathing, sleep, and jaw structure alongside alignment | Alignment-focused — straightens teeth without assessing airway or sleep |
| Who treats you | Dr. Hamada personally — same doctor, every visit | May rotate between associates or providers |
| First consultation | Comprehensive evaluation with digital imaging, no cost, no obligation | Often a quick look and a quote |
| Same-day starts | Consult and begin treatment in one visit if you’re ready | Typically requires a second appointment to start |
| Technology | 3D digital scanning, Pitts21 self-ligating brackets, advanced imaging | Varies — some still use traditional impressions |
| Kids evaluation | Looks at symptoms (snoring, grinding, mouth breathing) — doesn’t just wait for adult teeth | Typically recommends waiting until all permanent teeth are in |
| Adult options | Braces, Invisalign, MARPE jaw expansion, TMJ treatment, sleep solutions | Usually limited to braces and Invisalign |
| Locations | Three offices — Metairie, Luling, Destrehan | Typically one or two locations |
Three Convenient Locations Serving the Greater New Orleans Area
We built three offices so you don’t have to drive across town for every appointment. Pick the location that’s most convenient for your family.
Orthodontist in Metairie
Our Metairie office is our flagship location, just off Metairie Road near Lakeside Shopping Center. We serve families from across Jefferson Parish including Kenner, River Ridge, Harahan, Old Metairie, and Bucktown. Patients from Lakeview, Mid-City, and Uptown make the short drive over as well — it’s about 15 minutes from the Garden District.
Hamada Orthodontics | Metairie, LA 123 Metairie Rd, Metairie, LA 70005 Monday–Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:45 PM
Orthodontist in Luling
Our Luling office makes orthodontic care accessible for families in St. Charles Parish, Boutte, Paradis, Des Allemands, and the surrounding River Parishes.
Hamada Orthodontics | Luling, LA 118 Lakewood Dr, Luling, LA 70070 Monday–Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:45 PM
Orthodontist in Destrehan
Our Destrehan office is in Ormond Center, convenient for families in Destrehan, St. Rose, New Sarpy, Norco, and Montz. Same expert care, same doctor — just closer to home if you’re on the St. Charles Parish side of the metro.
Hamada Orthodontics | Destrehan, LA 131 Ormond Center Ct, Destrehan, LA 70047 Monday–Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:45 PM
Phone: (985) 725-0509
Who We Serve
We treat patients of all ages, but here’s a closer look at who walks through our doors:
Parents who know something’s off. Maybe your child snores, wakes up tired, struggles to focus, or breathes through their mouth. You’ve been told it’s normal, but it doesn’t feel normal. You’re right to trust your gut — and Dr. Hamada can help you figure out what’s going on.
Teens ready for braces or Invisalign. Whether your teenager wants metal braces, clear braces, or Invisalign, we’ll find the treatment that fits their lifestyle and gets the job done right.
Adults who’ve been putting it off. Maybe you had braces as a kid and your teeth shifted. Maybe you’ve been dealing with TMJ pain or poor sleep for years. Maybe you just want a straighter smile. Whatever brought you here, you’re in the right place.
Tulane and Loyola students. We see a lot of college students who want to start or continue orthodontic treatment while they’re in school. Our Metairie office is a quick drive from both campuses.
Families from across the metro. We regularly see patients from Metairie, Kenner, River Ridge, Harahan, Gretna, Harvey, Marrero, Luling, Destrehan, Norco, LaPlace, and everywhere in between. Patients from Orleans Parish — including Lakeview, Mid-City, Uptown, the Garden District, and Gentilly — choose our Metairie office for its easy access right off I-10.
I absolutely love Dr. Hamada and her staff! Everyone is friendly and welcoming. Both of my kids are being treated and we have had great experiences! They are proactive and communicate your plan in detail.
Hamada Orthodontics PatientInsurance and Payment Options
We accept most major dental insurance plans and will work with your provider to maximize your benefits. For families without insurance or for costs not covered by your plan, we offer flexible payment plans that break treatment into manageable monthly payments. No one should have to choose between their family’s health and their budget.
Orthodontic treatment is an investment, and we want you to feel good about every dollar. That starts with being upfront about costs during your very first visit — no surprises, no hidden fees, no awkward conversations down the road.
What Monthly Payments Can Look Like
| Treatment Cost | Down Payment | Estimated Monthly (24 mo) |
|---|---|---|
| $3,500 | $500 | ~$125/mo |
| $4,500 | $500 | ~$167/mo |
| $5,500 | $500 | ~$208/mo |
These are estimates to give you a general idea. Your actual cost depends on your treatment plan, insurance coverage, and payment schedule. We’ll walk you through everything at your free consultation.
These are estimates to give you a general idea. Your actual cost depends on your treatment plan, insurance coverage, and payment schedule. We’ll walk you through all of this at your free consultation so there’s nothing to wonder about when you leave.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontic Care in New Orleans
How do I know if my child needs to see an orthodontist?
Look for signs like snoring, mouth breathing, teeth grinding, restless sleep, difficulty focusing, or visible crowding. These are your child’s way of telling you something isn’t right. If you’re noticing any of them, it’s worth bringing your child in for an evaluation. Dr. Hamada can assess whether early intervention would make a difference or if it’s fine to wait and monitor.
How much do braces cost in the New Orleans area?
Braces in the Greater New Orleans area typically range from $3,000 to $6,000, depending on the complexity of the case and the type of treatment. Invisalign costs are usually in a similar range. At Hamada Orthodontics, we provide a detailed cost breakdown during your free consultation and offer payment plans to keep treatment affordable.
What’s the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist?
An orthodontist is a dentist who completed an additional two to three years of specialized residency training focused exclusively on moving teeth, correcting bites, and guiding jaw development. Dr. Hamada completed her orthodontic residency at Columbia University in New York. All orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists.
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes. Your first visit includes a comprehensive evaluation, digital imaging, and a one-on-one conversation with Dr. Hamada about your treatment options. There’s no cost and no obligation. You can schedule a consultation at our Metairie, Luling, or Destrehan office.
Can I start treatment the same day as my consultation?
Yes. We offer same-day starts for patients who are ready to get going. If Dr. Hamada completes your evaluation and you decide you’d like to begin, we can often get you started right then and there — no need to schedule a second appointment.
What is airway-centric orthodontics?
Airway-centric orthodontics looks at how the jaw, teeth, and airway are all connected. Instead of only straightening teeth, Dr. Hamada evaluates whether a narrow jaw or poor bite is restricting your ability to breathe properly. Treatment may include jaw expansion, braces, or aligners — all designed to improve not just your smile but your breathing, sleep, and overall health. Learn more about our airway-centric approach.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Most treatment plans run between 12 and 24 months, depending on the complexity of the case. Early intervention for kids may be shorter, while adult cases involving jaw expansion may take a bit longer. Dr. Hamada will give you a realistic timeline during your consultation.
Can adults get braces?
Absolutely. There’s no age limit on orthodontic treatment, and more adults are choosing to invest in their smile and their health than ever before. Whether you’re 25 or 65, we can help. Many adults choose clear aligners or ceramic braces for a more discreet option, but traditional braces are always available for cases that need them.
Do you accept my insurance?
We accept most major dental insurance plans. Our team will verify your coverage before treatment begins so you know exactly what to expect. If your plan doesn’t cover orthodontics, or if there’s a remaining balance, we offer flexible payment options to help.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether your child needs early intervention, your teen is ready for braces, or you’re an adult who’s finally ready to invest in yourself, we’d love to meet you. Dr. Hamada and the team at Hamada Orthodontics are here to answer your questions, walk you through your options, and help you make a decision you feel good about.
No pressure. No rush. Just honest answers and a plan that makes sense for your family.
Phone: (985) 725-0509
Hamada Orthodontics | Metairie, LA | Hamada Orthodontics | Luling, LA | Hamada Orthodontics | Destrehan, LA
