Removable Braces for Adults — Clear, Removable Aligners
If brackets and wires aren't your thing, you're in the right place. Our removable braces for adults are clear plastic trays — nearly invisible, comfortable, and easy to take out when you eat or brush. No metal, no wires, no compromises. Invisalign® is the brand you may know best, but what matters is the result: a straight, confident smile on your schedule.
Think of them as an invisible clip for teeth — a discreet alternative to traditional braces that works just as effectively. Whether you have mild crowding, gaps, or a more complex case, removable braces can move your teeth with impressive precision while you live your normal life.
Each set of custom-made clear aligners is created from 3D digital scans of your teeth and swapped out every two weeks as your smile progresses. No goopy impressions, shorter appointments, and the flexibility to eat what you want. At The Smile Portal, we also offer third-party financing and monthly payment plans under $200 to make the process as easy as the aligners themselves.
The Artist
Dr. Starks' Journey
Dr. Sheilla Starks' journey to creating beautiful smiles began with a passion for art, health, and serving others, values instilled in her by her physician father and nurse mother. Even as a young entrepreneur, she owned a small business selling hand-beaded jewelry, artisanal candles, and oil paintings, showcasing her eye for creativity and detail. Dentistry, with its unique blend of science, art, and human connection, became her calling.
A lifelong learner with a thirst for adventure, Dr. Starks earned her first Doctorate of Dental Medicine at the prestigious Universidad Nacional de Colombia, where she placed first in her class, made the Dean's List every semester, and graduated as valedictorian. With a desire to broaden her horizons, she moved to the United States, mastering English and completing her second Doctorate of Dental Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. Her path then led to Jacksonville University, where she pursued advanced training in Clinical Orthodontics and earned a Master of Science in Dentistry and a Specialty Certificate in Orthodontics.
Today, Dr. Starks is proud to be a board-certified orthodontist, a distinction that reflects her dedication to excellence. This voluntary certification demonstrates her expertise, rigorous training, and ongoing commitment to providing the highest level of orthodontic care. She is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, the American Board of Orthodontics, and an active contributor to her local community through philanthropic efforts with The Glory Group, which supports children and families in need.
Why Patients Love Dr. StarksDr. Starks brings a unique combination of artistry, precision, and heartfelt compassion to her practice. Her strengths include:
- Attention to detail and creative problem-solving
- Honest, empathetic communication
- A gentle, charismatic, and fun-loving approach
She is obsessed with crafting smiles that reflect each patient's individuality and designing treatment plans that fit seamlessly into their lives.
When She's Not Perfecting SmilesOutside the office, you'll find Dr. Starks embracing life's joys, spending time with her family, juicing and discovering healthy hacks, running, practicing yoga, painting, and finding new ways to nurture mind, body and spitit.
The Smile Portal Crew
Brianna
Treatment CoordinatorI am from Winston-Salem, NC, and graduated in May 2025 from UNC Charlotte with a Bachelor of Science in Biology with Honors. Dentistry has been a special interest of mine, and I plan to pursue dental school with the goal of specializing in orthodontics. At the office, I serve as a Treatment Coordinator, where I enjoy welcoming patients, answering calls, and helping with scheduling to ensure every visit is a comfortable and positive experience. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, working out, and being involved in my faith. A fun fact about me is that I conducted research with yeast and defended my honors thesis during my time at UNC Charlotte.
Karen Gallegos
Front Desk CoordinatorI'm the Front Desk Coordinator at The Smile Portal Orthodontics. Born and raised in Charlotte, I love serving my community. I'm passionate about creating a welcoming environment and helping every patient leave with a brighter smile! :) Fun fact: My favorite color is pink, and in my free time I enjoy beach trips and family vacations.
