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Home of the $2,600 Braces

Three smiling dentists in Albuquerque

Even though we offer braces at a much lower cost compared to other dental practices, it doesn’t come from cutting corners. They are provided by a highly trained orthodontist who only uses the best materials and latest technology. We simply want to make this treatment as accessible as possible while still meeting the highest possible standards.

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Get to Know Our Orthodontist:
Dr. Kurtis Lightheart

Dr. Lightheart had his life and smile changed for the better thanks to braces, so he has dedicated his career to helping people enjoy the same benefits that have meant so much to him. A graduate of the University of Louisville School of Dentistry who completed his orthodontic specialty training at the UTHealth School of Dentistry, you can trust that you or your child will be in great hands starting at your first visit.

Meet Dr. Lightheart

Albuquerque dentist Doctor Kurtis Lightheart smiling in white lab coat Dr. Lightheart Coors

Meet Our Team of Dental Experts

Our general dentists always prioritize listening and explaining things to our patients so they feel comfortable and informed about their dental care no matter their situation. They are eager to uplift your smile as well as your overall health while making you feel right at home during each appointment.

Albuquerque dentist Doctor Erika Belle
Dr. Belle Eubank
Albuquerque dentist Doctor Christopher Lo
Dr. Lo Coors
Albuquerque dentist Doctor Kurtis Lightheart
Dr. Lightheart Coors

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5-Star Reviews

Too Good to Be True?

Valer Dental & Braces saved the day when my wife had a tooth emergency! They were incredibly accommodating, getting her in on the same day and providing phenomenal care. The staff went above and beyond to ensure her comfort and wellbeing.

— Tim D.

Everyone was really nice and the doc was amazing. She listened, she explained everything well. Great experience! You can tell everyone works well together and that they like their jobs.

— R.D.

Amazing service. They went over different treatment plans/options. They did follow up calls. The dentists/assistants were knowledgeable, skilled and professional. Truly above and beyond.

— M.C.

Valer made the process of getting braces very easy for my daughter and myself. We got her consultation and they were able to put them on the same day. The staff is always very friendly and helpful and the location is very convenient for us.

— Kyra N.

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So Much Value
in One Place

We save our patients from having to run between different dental offices by providing everything they need now or in the future under the same roof. You’ll be able to work with the team you know and trust every time!

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FAQs

Do you have some pressing questions about our practice and the services we offer, or dental care in general? We’re more than happy to assist you in person or over the phone, but you might also enjoy reading through the following frequently asked questions!

How do I find the best place to get dental work done?

It’s only natural to want to find the best provider to help you build and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile. However, if it’s been a while since your last visit, you may not know how to find a new provider.

The first step is to take a few moments to identify your main priorities. For instance, you may be seeking someone who offers a certain treatment you anticipate needing, like braces. Or it might be more important to find someone who is in-network with your dental insurance. This can help you narrow down your search results to find someone who meets your individual needs.

How much do braces usually cost in Albuquerque, NM?

Although it can depend significantly on your unique circumstances, traditional orthodontics in Albuquerque often ranges from about $4,000 to $7,000. However, your payment may vary depending on the severity of your condition, the type of braces, and the duration of your treatment.

Our team understands that not everyone can afford these higher prices, so we offer comprehensive braces treatment for just $2,600 if patients pay the entire balance in cash upfront. We also offer flexible financial payment plans if needed.

What is the best way to find a provider who places dental implants?

Unlike dentures and dental bridges, getting dental implants involves oral surgery. It’s only natural to want to find the most qualified dentist to perform your procedure, but you might not know what qualifications to look for.

This procedure requires specialized training and equipment, so many patients seek out experts, like an oral surgeon, prosthodontist, or periodontist, who have the in-depth knowledge and experience to place dental implants. With that said, many general dentists also complete advanced educational programs to be able to offer them.

At our office, Dr. Erika Belle earned her dental doctorate from the Creighton University School of Dentistry, and today, she has completed over 60 hours of advanced training to be able to place dental implants.

What level of education is required to become an orthodontist?

All orthodontists must become dentists before they can specialize in straightening smiles, which begins with their education. Typically, potential providers earn a bachelor’s degree in an appropriate field, then achieve a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery from one of over 70 institutions accredited by the American Dental Association (ADA).

These degrees typically require intensive classroom learning as well as hands-on experience with residencies or other programs. Then, a provider can choose to specialize in one of 12 specialties recognized by the ADA, such as orthodontics.

Dr. Lightheart is our on-site orthodontist, and he earned his dental degree from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry. He then earned his Certificate in Orthodontics at the UTHealth School of Dentistry.

What do you do if you can’t afford dental care?

We believe that everyone deserves to have a healthy smile they can feel proud of, but you might skip everything from routine visits to more complex procedures if you’re afraid you can’t afford them.

We offer several ways to help reduce your out-of-pocket expenses, including:

  • We gladly welcome dental insurance. We’re considered in-network with most PPO dental insurance plans, and also accept Medicaid and Medicare.
  • We offer a Valer Value Plan. For a low annual fee, you gain access to standard services and an additional 20% to 60% discount on other treatments.
  • We provide flexible financial options. We’ve partnered with Sunbit and CareCredit to offer flexible payment plans that allow you to divide your total invoice into more manageable installments if your application is approved.

Coors Location

You’ll find Valer Dental & Braces at 1514 Coors Blvd NW, just south of I-40. We’re currently accepting dental patients of all ages, so be sure to give us a call so we can bring more value to you and your family’s smiles!

Eubank Location

We’re at 120 Eubank Blvd SE near where it crosses Central Ave SE, less than five minutes south of I-40. We’re also just down the street from The Home Depot and Costco, making it easy to run your errands whenever you come to see us.

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