Orthodontics
Braces & aligners for kids and teens – expert dental care made easy
- Kid-friendly staff – Calm, kind, and patient
- Beautiful results from our pediatric dental team
- Flexible payment options & insurance-friendly
Orthodontic Care at Children’s Dental Health
Children’s Dental Health proudly offers orthodontic services to patients for ongoing, quality oral care, and convenience. Parents seeking orthodontic care for their children can now save time and avoid the hassle of finding a new practice for additional treatment. Our child-friendly practices provide patients and families with a comfortable, consistent experience from comprehensive dentistry to full orthodontic care. We also offer FREE Orthodontic Consultations!
Pediatric dentistry and orthodontics go hand in hand, as the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic exam no later than the age of seven. Having an experienced orthodontist alongside the pediatric dentists allows for greater collaboration between our two specialties, which ultimately is very beneficial to your child’s oral health.
Why are orthodontics important?
While pediatric dentists focus on the health of the teeth and gums, orthodontists focus on the growth and development of the teeth and jaw. The services provided by an orthodontist ensure proper spacing and alignment to allow for not only an attractive smile but a healthier smile. Properly aligned teeth make brushing and flossing easier, reduce the risk of decay, and are less likely to be fractured or damaged during falls or other injuries. More extreme cases, such as facial and jaw malalignment, can also be corrected with orthodontic treatment and can improve airway flow, reduce pain, and dramatically increase self-esteem in growing children.
Our pediatric dentists may notice preliminary orthodontic problems, but only an orthodontist can give a comprehensive evaluation to determine the proper course of action. Teeth, and sometimes entire facial structures, can be permanently changed and enhanced by orthodontic treatment. Our orthodontic specialists have extensive and specialized training that enables them to provide patients with professional, personalized treatment plans.
What are the benefits of early orthodontic treatment?
Children should visit an orthodontist by the age of seven to assess potential tooth and jaw problems. Early orthodontic treatment is advantageous because a young child’s teeth have not finished erupting, which allows orthodontists to guide the growth of facial and jawbones to address any problems at the earliest stage possible.
The goal of early treatment is to prevent a developing problem, eliminate the cause, and guide the growth of the facial and jawbones to prepare enough space for permanent teeth. A patient may require a second course of treatment after all permanent teeth have come in to move those teeth into their best positions.
An orthodontist may recommend treating a child who still has their baby teeth if they discover the following issues:
- Underbites when the lower front teeth are ahead of the upper front teeth
- Crossbites when the jaw shifts to one side
- Crowded front teeth
- Teeth that are spaced too far apart
- Extra or missing teeth
- Teeth that meet abnormally, or do not meet at all
- Thumb, finger, or pacifier sucking that affects the teeth or jaw growth
While some of these issues are inherited, others may result from accidents, dental disease, sports injuries, or abnormal swallowing. Early orthodontic treatment can take many forms, and each plan will consider the patient’s oral growth and development. The orthodontist could prescribe a fixed or removable appliance to change the position of the jaw, move teeth, or hold teeth in place to see desirable changes. Sometimes appliances are not necessary, and rather, the removal of baby teeth may help the permanent teeth erupt better.
What orthodontic services do you offer?
As your children rapidly grow, their mouths and teeth are also growing and developing. Abnormal developments, such as crooked teeth, bite patterns, and jaw misalignment, can be corrected (and sometimes prevented) by a pediatric orthodontist. Children’s Dental Health now offers a range of orthodontic services including:
- Adolescent Orthodontic Treatment
- Clear or Ceramic Braces
- Early Orthodontic Treatment (Phase I & II)
- HERBST appliance
- Orthodontic Evaluation
- Palatal Expander
- Retainers
- Traditional Metal Braces
Orthodontic Treatment Option Matrix
| Option | Indications (examples) | Typical Ages | Visibility | Office Visits | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Metal Braces | Mild–complex crowding/spacing, rotations, bite correction (overbite/underbite/crossbite) | 10–18 (varies) | Most visible | Every 4–8 weeks for adjustments | ~12–24 months (case‑dependent) |
| Clear/Ceramic Braces | Similar to metal braces; chosen for aesthetics when aligners aren’t ideal | 12–18 (varies) | Less visible than metal | Every 4–8 weeks for adjustments | ~12–24 months (case‑dependent) |
| Clear Aligners (Teens) | Mild–moderate alignment, spacing, some bite issues; requires high wear compliance | 12–18 (varies) | Nearly invisible | Check‑ins about 6–10 weeks; new trays at home | ~6–18 months with 20–22 hrs/day wear |
| Palatal Expander (Phase 1) (early/interceptive) | Narrow upper jaw, crossbite, crowding relief before comprehensive treatment | 7–11 (Phase 1) | Hidden on palate | Activations at start; then 4–8 week checks | Active ~3–6 months, then stabilization |
Book a Free Orthodontic Consultation
We want to help set your child up for success which is why we offer FREE Orthodontic Consultations!*
At your child’s complimentary orthodontic consult, our orthodontist will perform a visual orthodontic evaluation and make a recommendation for a proposed treatment plan. You can expect your consultation to take about 15 minutes- quick and easy! Book your free consultation and give your child a gift that will last a lifetime.
Complimentary Consultation Includes:
- Visual Orthodontic Evaluation
- Panoramic X-ray
Insurance & Financing Made Simple
- Most major dental plans accepted—we’ll verify your benefits and maximize coverage.
- Flexible monthly payment options to fit your family’s budget.
- HSA/FSA eligible—we provide itemized receipts for easy reimbursement.
Clear, upfront estimates before treatment begins. - Ask about our Lifetime Retainer Program to protect your investment and your child’s smile for life.
- Free orthodontic consultation to review options with no pressure.
What To Expect During Orthodontic Treatment
Starting orthodontic care can feel overwhelming—but knowing the process helps kids and parents feel at ease. Here’s a step-by-step look at the journey from your first visit to long-term results.
Step 1: Free Consultation & Exam
Meet with our orthodontist for a complete exam, photos, and digital X-rays (if needed). We’ll discuss goals, timing, and options.
Step 2: Personalized Treatment Plan
We create a plan tailored to your child’s needs—whether braces, aligners, or an expander. We’ll review costs, insurance, and financing.
Step 3: Appliance Placement
Braces, aligners, or other appliances are fitted comfortably. We explain how to care for them at home and what to expect in the first few days.
Step 4: Regular Adjustment Visits
Every 4–8 weeks (braces) or 6–10 weeks (aligners), your child returns for adjustments and progress checks. These visits keep treatment on track.
Step 5: Progress Milestones
As teeth move into place, we celebrate each step—whether closing gaps, correcting bite, or aligning the smile. Parents receive updates along the way.
Step 6: Appliance Removal
Once treatment goals are reached, braces or aligners are removed. Your child can enjoy their new smile with confidence.
Step 7: Retention & Long-Term Care
A custom retainer maintains results and prevents shifting. We’ll guide you on wear schedules and follow-up care to keep the smile for life.
Orthodontic FAQs
Many orthodontists recommend an evaluation by age 7 to spot crowding or bite issues early. Early checks don’t always mean treatment—often we simply monitor growth and review timing. If treatment is needed, early care can guide jaw development and simplify later care.
Common signs include crowding or spacing, bite problems (overbite, underbite, crossbite), mouth breathing, or thumb‑sucking that affects the bite. A free consultation can confirm whether braces, aligners, or simple monitoring is best.
Your child receives an exam, digital photos, and (if needed) X‑rays or a scan. We explain options, timelines, and costs, and answer questions about school, sports, and hygiene. You’ll leave with a clear plan and next steps.
All three move teeth, but they differ in visibility, visit frequency, and daily responsibilities. Braces are fixed and great for most cases; ceramic is less visible; aligners are almost invisible but require 20–22 hours/day wear. See our comparison for a quick side‑by‑side.
Most cases take 12–24 months, depending on age, bite complexity, and how well instructions are followed. Some milder aligner cases finish in 6–12 months. Your orthodontist will provide a personalized estimate.
Braces patients are typically seen every 4–8 weeks for adjustments. Aligner patients usually check in every 6–10 weeks, with new trays worn at home as instructed.
An expander widens the upper jaw to create space and correct crossbites during growth. It’s often part of Phase 1 (early) treatment and is followed by a short stabilization period before braces or aligners later.
Phase 1 (generally ages 7–11) guides jaw growth and creates space; Phase 2 (generally early teens) aligns teeth and fine‑tunes the bite. Not every child needs two phases—many start comprehensive treatment in the teen years.
Sometimes, yes—especially if treatment goals change or compliance becomes challenging. We’ll reassess and update the plan; timing and costs may be adjusted.
Mild soreness is common for 1–3 days after placement or adjustments. Wax and over‑the‑counter pain relief (as directed by your provider) help. Call us if your child has persistent or sharp pain.
Yes. For sports, we recommend a mouthguard for braces; aligner wearers can remove trays during play and reinsert afterward. Instrument players typically adjust within a few days.
Skip sticky, hard, or chewy foods (caramels, taffy, hard candies, ice, popcorn). Cut apples and carrots into small pieces. With aligners, remove trays to eat and brush before reinserting.
Yes. Our team is trained to create a calm, kid‑friendly experience with extra time, desensitization techniques, and comfort options when appropriate. Please tell us about your child’s needs when scheduling so we can prepare.
Costs vary by case, treatment type, and length. We’ll provide a personalized estimate at your consultation and discuss payment plans and budget‑friendly options.
Many dental plans include orthodontic benefits for children; coverage varies by employer and plan. We’ll verify your benefits and provide a pre‑treatment estimate.
Yes—orthodontic treatment is often eligible for HSA/FSA funds. We also offer flexible monthly payments; details are reviewed at your visit.
Yes, orthodontic consultations at Children’s Dental Health are free so families can explore options without pressure. We’ll confirm what’s included when you schedule.
Retainers are essential for keeping teeth from shifting after braces or aligner treatment. Expect full‑time wear at first, then night‑time wear long‑term as directed by your orthodontist
Because retainers can sometimes be lost or damaged, many families choose our Lifetime Retainer Program for added peace of mind. This program helps ensure your child always has a properly fitting retainer so their orthodontic results stay protected. Learn more about caring for retainers or ask our team about enrolling during treatment.
Contact us promptly so we can replace it before teeth shift. Wearing an old retainer is not recommended if it no longer fits comfortably, is cracked, or has broken.
Routine adjustments typically take 20–30 minutes; longer visits are needed for placement or removal. Schedule online, call, or choose your nearest location, we’ll help you find a time that works.
Absolutely. Bring any X‑rays or records you have, and we’ll provide a clear review of options at a free consultation.
Yes! Kids and teens can keep playing their favorite sports while wearing braces. We strongly recommend a protective mouthguard to prevent injuries and protect both teeth and appliances.
Over-the-counter mouthguards often don’t fit well over brackets and wires. A poorly fitted guard can be uncomfortable or even damage braces. That’s why we suggest a custom mouthguard designed for orthodontic patients.
Yes. Our orthodontic team provides custom-fitted mouthguards that adapt as teeth move during treatment. They are more comfortable, protective, and durable than store-bought options.
As teeth shift, the fit of a mouthguard can change. We’ll check the fit during adjustment visits and let you know if a replacement is needed.
Contact and ball sports such as football, basketball, soccer, hockey, and lacrosse carry the highest risk of dental injury. Even in non-contact activities like gymnastics or skateboarding, a mouthguard is a smart choice.
Retainers can last for years with proper care, but many patients need replacements due to wear, damage, or accidental loss.
Yes, even if it has been years since your child finished treatment! Teeth can shift naturally over time due to aging, bite pressure, and everyday use. Wearing retainers regularly helps maintain alignment.
Patients who enroll are eligible to get 4 individual retainers per year (or 2 full sets). A $20 co-pay per retainer will apply.
Membership to the program costs $800, and patients can enroll before treatment, during treatment, or at the time of their disband. This one-time-fee covers your membership for life!
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