
Dr. Gavin-Rae Donaldson, DDS
Orthodontist
5900 E Virginia Beach Blvd Norfolk VA, 23502About
Dr. Gavin Donaldson practices Orthodontics in Norfolk, VA. Comprehensive orthodontic treatment includes metal wires that are inserted into orthodontic brackets, which can be made from stainless steel or a more aesthetic ceramic material. The wires interact with the brackets to move teeth into desired positions. Being advanced in the field, Dr. Donaldson may also use Invisalign or other aligner trays that have been designed to align a patients? smile. As an orthodontist, Dr. Donaldson must recognize various characteristics of a malocclusion or dentofacial deformity, define the nature of the problem, including the etiology if possible, and design a treatment strategy based on the specific needs and desires of the patient.
Provider Details

Dr. Gavin-Rae Donaldson, DDS's Expert Contributions
Does having braces hurt?
The placement of braces does not hurt, however, there may be some mild soreness that lasts a few days as your mouth adapts during the process of your teeth being straightened. I recommend a soft food diet for a couple days, and as time goes the soreness will lessen. Taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as Tylenol will help greatly with the soreness. Everyone’s body responds differently to changes so some have less or more soreness than other. READ MORE
What happens if you don't wear your retainer?
Teeth have a "memory" and often try to move back to their original positions. Retainers are required to help keep teeth in their new positions. Regular lifetime retainer wear is necessary as the body is continually undergoing growth and maturation. I recommend bedtime retainer wear after removal of braces. Minor irregularities, particularly in the lower front teeth may occur. Even with good retainer wear, teeth may move slightly which is beyond the control of the orthodontist. If retainers are lost, broken, or no longer fit you should immediately schedule an appointment to have new ones made or if possible repaired to avoid shifting of the teeth. You can also ask your orthodontist if a fixed/bonded retainer would be a good option for you. Best of luck and congrats on getting your braces off! READ MORE
My daughter’s middle tooth seems to be out of line from the remaining teeth. Can this be corrected with braces?
I would advise that you seek orthodontic treatment especially if you and your daughter are concerned about the current position of the teeth. After an initial exam your orthodontist may recommend clear aligner therapy, braces, or possibly some form of limited treatment option depending on the severity of the bite. Usually a consultation is complimentary and you can have all your questions answered. Hope this helps and good luck! READ MORE
Dr. Gavin-Rae Donaldson, DDS's Practice location
Practice At 5900 E Virginia Beach Blvd
5900 E Virginia Beach Blvd -Norfolk, VA 23502Get Direction
Richmond, VA 23220Get Direction
Dr. Gavin-Rae Donaldson, DDS's reviews
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Get to know Orthodontics Dr. Gavin-Rae Donaldson, who serves the population of Richmond, Virginia.
Dr. Gavin-Rae Donaldson is an orthodontist currently practicing with Richard L Byrd, DDS, PC & Associates and is affiliated with Kool Smiles.
Dr. Gavin-Rae Donaldson grew up in South Florida and received his Bachelor of Health Science at the University of Miami and his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from Meharry Medical College in Nashville. Upon graduation, he was accepted into a two-year competitive Orthodontics and Maxillofacial Orthopedics program at Howard University. As an experienced orthodontic specialist, he accepted a move to the Richmond area as an associate of Dr. Richard Byrd.
Dr. Donaldson strives to create lasting relationships with each and every patient, starting with the creation of a beautiful and healthy smile. He understands the importance of aligning teeth to help build overall confidence and self-esteem as well as the contribution of straight teeth to good oral and overall health. Dr. Donaldson is a member of the American Association of Orthodontics, American Dental Association and American Mensa. In his free time he enjoys singing, traveling, working out, watching sports and spending time with family and friends.
Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis, prevention and correction of malpositioned teeth and jaws. An orthodontist is an expert who diagnoses and treats overbites, occlusions, misaligned teeth and jaws, and overcrowded mouths. If left untreated, all of these problems can grow worse over time.
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Nearby Providers
- Dr. George C Dailey DDS2118 Executive Dr Hampton VA 23666
- Neepa Patel D.D.S.1403 GREENBRIER PKWY CHESAPEAKE VA 23320
- Monica Woodard DDS MDS5833 Harbour View Blvd Suffolk VA 23435
- Jon L Scott DDS, MS1186 Big Bethel Rd Hampton VA 23666
- Dr. Gregory M Hutchins DDS1806 Hampton Blvd Norfolk VA 23517
- Dr. Walter Karl Wexel DDS2140 Great Neck Sq Virginia Beach VA 23454
Nearest Hospitals
BON SECOURS DEPAUL MEDICAL CENTERl
150 KINGSLEY LANE NORFOLK VA 23505SENTARA LEIGH HOSPITALl
830 KEMPSVILLE ROAD NORFOLK VA 23502MEDICAL COLLEGE OF VIRGINIA HOSPITALSl
1250 EAST MARSHALL STREET - BOX 980510 RICHMOND VA 23298BON SECOURS RICHMOND COMMUNITY HOSPITALl
1500 N. 28TH STREET RICHMOND VA 23223