Woman looking at her new smile in the mirror

Port City Ortho: Smarter Treatment Starts with 3D Imaging – Enhancing Precision in Every Step

Learn how 3D technology elevates orthodontic care from consultation to results.

Ready to Elevate Your Smile? You're about to discover why Port City Ortho is not just another orthodontic office but a hub of advanced innovation. From day one, this practice has redefined what it means to get braces or aligners. With a stellar reputation in Southeastern North Carolina and a pioneering approach to technology, they've positioned themselves at the forefront of smile science. The secret weapon? 3D imaging powered by tools like iTero and AI-enhanced planning. Let's dive in and see how that transforms every step of your orthodontic journey.


Table of Contents

Introduction to Port City Ortho
The Role of Technology in Modern Orthodontics
What Makes 3D Imaging a Game-Changer
AI Meets Orthodontics
How 3D Imaging Elevates the Patient Journey
Invisalign® Enhanced by 3D and AI
Braces with a Modern Makeover
Patient Stories and Success Cases
The Comfort Factor: No More Goop, No More Guesswork
Time-Saving Efficiency at Every Step
Smile Results That Go Beyond Aesthetics
Why Choose Port City Ortho?
Ready to Elevate Your Smile?
Frequently Asked Questions


Introduction to Port City Ortho

Who We Are

Port City Ortho isn't just known for straightening teeth—it's known for elevating smiles. Led by a renowned trio—Dr. Bill Gierie, Dr. Gregory Richardson, and Dr. Steven Hancock—our team brings decades of experience fused with cutting-edge technology to every patient interaction. Our philosophy is simple but impactful: combine personal care with technological precision. Whether it's traditional braces or Invisalign®, our method revolves around personalization backed by powerful tools like 3D imaging and digital scanners.

Locations and Accessibility

Convenience is part of the experience. Port City Ortho operates four fully equipped locations:


Every location is designed for comfort and equipped with the latest orthodontic technology. Whether in bustling Wilmington or scenic Southport, state-of-the-art care is always available.

The Expert Team: Dr. Gierie, Dr. Richardson, Dr. Hancock

The strength of Port City Ortho lies in its people. Dr. Gierie brings a wealth of experience and was instrumental in introducing Invisalign® to the region. Dr. Richardson is revered for his precision and care, while Dr. Hancock blends clinical skill with a personable approach that puts patients at ease. Together, they lead a team deeply trained in using digital tools for diagnostics and treatment, ensuring that every smile is beautiful and functionally perfect.

The Role of Technology in Modern Orthodontics

Technology is transforming the orthodontic experience, and Port City Ortho is leading that charge. Gone are the days of messy impressions and long waits. Today, tools like iTero digital scanners and AI-based simulations allow for real-time precision, faster results, and a more comfortable journey.

Every aspect of treatment—whether with Invisalign® or braces—is planned using detailed digital models. This tech-enhanced approach means fewer appointments, better results, and more predictability. Patients benefit from smoother adjustments, faster progress, and an overall experience that feels modern, not medical. It's orthodontics reimagined for today's world.

What Makes 3D Imaging a Game-Changer

The Power Behind the Precision

Imagine your orthodontist having a digital twin of your mouth that updates in real time. That's what 3D imaging allows. Every tooth, root, and contour is mapped in stunning detail. This is more than fancy graphics—it's about planning treatments with surgical precision, reducing trial and error, and shortening treatment timeframes.

These high-resolution scans not only allow orthodontists to see your current structure, but they also let them model future changes. Want to see your projected post-treatment smile? You can. Want to track how each aligner will shift your teeth week by week? Done. That level of insight is what transforms average results into exceptional ones.

Faster, Clearer, Smarter: The iTero Advantage

The iTero scanner is the backbone of Port City Ortho's 3D imaging approach. With just a quick scan, your entire dental profile is captured in minutes—no trays, no discomfort, and best of all, no guesswork. These digital models can be instantly reviewed, modified, and used to fabricate Invisalign® aligners that fit like a glove.


Beyond initial scans, iTero also supports progress tracking, giving patients a visual timeline of their improvements. Want motivation during your Invisalign journey? Nothing beats seeing your smile transformation in real time.

Why 3D Over Traditional Impressions?

Traditional molds were messy, often inaccurate, and time-consuming. 3D scanning eliminates all that. There is no gagging, no retakes, just a quick scan and a fully interactive model of your smile. This leap in technology means fewer appointments, better-fitting appliances, and faster results. Plus, patients love seeing a detailed simulation of their future smile—it turns what once was a blind process into a crystal-clear vision.

AI Meets Orthodontics

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing orthodontic care at Port City Ortho. AI tools can now accurately predict tooth movement and outcomes by analyzing thousands of successful cases. This means more effective planning and a streamlined path to your perfect smile. Instead of guesswork, treatments are backed by data and personalized to your unique dental profile. With our team's expertise, AI helps map out every step, ensuring you stay on schedule and reach your goals faster. It's orthodontics powered by intelligence, designed to deliver next-level results.

How 3D Imaging Elevates the Patient Journey

From your first visit, 3D imaging changes the game. At Port City Ortho, the initial consultation includes a detailed iTero scan that helps you—and your doctor—see everything clearly. The digital model of your smile allows for a collaborative, informed conversation about your treatment options. Throughout the process, your progress is tracked in real-time, meaning fewer surprises and faster adjustments. You'll even get to visualize the end result before starting. It's an empowering experience that keeps you involved, motivated, and excited from day one to your final appointment.

Invisalign® Enhanced by 3D and AI

Port City Ortho isn't just a provider of Invisalign®—we are among the Top 1% in SE North Carolina, a rare distinction that reflects deep experience and proven success. Every Invisalign® treatment starts with a 3D scan, eliminating the need for messy molds. These digital models power AI-assisted planning, which maps out your entire journey from start to finish. The aligners are then custom-created to fit your unique smile, adjusting with pinpoint accuracy over time. The result? Faster treatment, fewer office visits, and a seamless smile transformation. Patients love the nearly invisible design and the comfort of knowing their treatment is guided by both human expertise and intelligent software.

Braces with a Modern Makeover

Braces have come a long way; at Port City Ortho, they're smarter than ever. With 3D imaging and digital bracket placement, your orthodontist can precisely position each component. This leads to faster, more predictable results and a more comfortable experience overall. Custom treatment plans mean fewer adjustments and shorter time in braces. Whether for teens or adults, modern braces now feel more like a streamlined system and less like a burden. Paired with experienced hands and top-tier tech, braces at Port City Ortho are a powerful, efficient choice.

Patient Stories and Success Cases

The proof is in the smiles, and hundreds of success stories exist at Port City Ortho. With over 195 five-star reviews, patients consistently rave about the clear communication, the cutting-edge tools, and our friendly, knowledgeable staff. Parents love how their kids feel involved in the process; adults appreciate the efficiency and predictability of treatments. Real before-and-after results showcase dramatic transformations—smiles that look great and function better. These aren't just cosmetic changes—they're confidence boosters that last a lifetime.

The Comfort Factor: No More Goop, No More Guesswork

Say Goodbye to Messy Impressions

Let's be honest—no one liked traditional dental impressions. That cold, goopy material shoved into your mouth? Gag-inducing. Thankfully, Port City Ortho has retired those outdated methods and replaced them with iTero digital scans that are fast, clean, and accurate.

Patients sit back while a small wand moves around the mouth, capturing thousands of images per second. The scan builds a complete 3D model of their teeth and bite in just minutes. There's no discomfort, no mess, and best of all, no need for retakes.

This upgrade alone is a game-changer, especially for kids, people with sensitive gag reflexes, or anyone with a bad dental experience. The difference is night and day.

More Precision, Fewer Surprises

Because these scans are so precise, they eliminate the guesswork that used to come with braces and aligner fittings. Appliances fit better, function better, and feel better. You'll spend less time in the chair and more time loving your results. That kind of peace of mind? Priceless.

Time-Saving Efficiency at Every Step

Port City Ortho understands your time is valuable. Thanks to advanced tech and AI-powered planning, most treatments are shorter and require fewer in-person visits. Smart scheduling systems, real-time tracking, and precise adjustments keep your treatment moving smoothly. It's ideal for busy families and professionals alike. The result? Exceptional outcomes delivered with less disruption to your daily routine.

Smile Results That Go Beyond Aesthetics

A straight smile isn't just about looking good—it's about health, comfort, and confidence. At Port City Ortho, treatments are designed to improve both the function and appearance of your teeth. Better alignment can reduce jaw pain, improve bite efficiency, and even prevent long-term dental issues. Of course, the boost in self-esteem that comes with a great smile? That's a life-changing bonus.

Why Choose Port City Ortho?

Experience, Technology, and Compassion

So, why Port City Ortho over another provider? It boils down to three things:


  1. Experience – Decades of practice and leadership in the field.
  2. Technology – Industry-leading tools like iTero and AI-based treatment planning.
  3. Compassion – Our team that truly cares about your comfort, goals, and experience.


We're not just checking boxes. We're crafting custom journeys for every smile that walks through the door. We are so grateful to be a part of every patient’s smile journey.

Trusted by the Community

Being recognized as a Top 1% Invisalign Provider is impressive. But what speaks volumes is oue five-star rating and hundreds of reviews from happy patients. Port City Ortho has earned the Wilmington and Southport communities' trust—and we work daily to keep it. We are honored to be a part of our amazing communities. It is our pleasure to serve you! From kids getting their first orthodontic appliance to adults completing a smile glow-up, Port City Ortho meets you where you are and helps you get where you want to be.

Ready to Elevate Your Smile?

If you're ready to transform your smile with unmatched precision and personalized care, now's the time to take the first step. With the power of 3D imaging, expert providers, and cutting-edge technology, Port City Ortho is leading the charge in smarter, faster, better orthodontic treatment.

Whether you need traditional braces or are curious about Invisalign®, you can count on a comfortable, informed, and confidence-boosting experience. Every detail of your care—from your first scan to your final reveal—is designed with precision in mind.

Reach out to one of our convenient locations today and experience the future of orthodontics.


📞 Mayfaire (Wilmington): 910-256-8590

📞 Shipyard Blvd. (Wilmington): 910-452-7988

📞 Southport, NC: 910-457-0020

🌐 Visit: portcityorthodontist.com

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How does 3D imaging improve my orthodontic treatment?

3D imaging captures ultra-detailed digital scans of your teeth, allowing for more accurate planning and efficient progress tracking. It improves appliance fit, reduces treatment time, and enhances patient comfort.

2. What's the difference between iTero scanning and traditional impressions?

iTero scanning is digital, fast, and mess-free—no more goopy molds. It provides a more precise image of your teeth, which leads to better-fitting braces or aligners and fewer corrections.

3. Is Invisalign® as effective as braces?

Absolutely! For many cases, Invisalign® can be just as effective as braces, especially when planned with AI and 3D imaging. Port City Ortho's doctors will help you determine the best option for your needs.

4. What age should my child see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial checkup by age 7. Early evaluations can catch developmental issues before they become more complicated to treat.

5. How do I get started with Port City Ortho?

Contact one of our four locations or visit our website to schedule a consultation. You'll receive a free 3D scan and a personalized treatment plan tailored to your goals during your visit.

READY TO ELEVATE YOUR SMILE?

SCHEDULE TODAY

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