Kids’ orthodontics
When should my child see a kids’ orthodontist?
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should start seeing an orthodontist for kids by seven years old.
Our Growth Guidance program allows our kids’ orthodontists to detect problems early and start interceptive orthodontics if needed to avoid problems becoming more complicated, setting them up for a healthier permanent smile. Your complimentary early orthodontic evaluation includes X-rays and consultations from a Growth Guidance Coordinator.
Schedule a complimentary consultation for your child with the pediatric orthodontists near you at Hess Orthodontics. We have six convenient offices throughout West Coastal and Central Florida:
What is interceptive orthodontics?
Interceptive orthodontics (also referred to as early orthodontic treatment or Phase 1 treatment) helps correct abnormal bite patterns and improve results once the adult teeth emerge. The endgame of early treatment is to get a handle on any issues before they become too big.
Most children do not need interceptive or early orthodontic treatment. But for those that do, it can help offset the extent of future orthodontic work. Early orthodontic treatment uses a variety of appliances like retainers, expanders, or partial braces for kids. These appliances shape and contour the dental arch, creating a better foundation for adult tooth development.
Kids who need early treatment will not need to start Phase 2 for a few years after completing Phase 1. While in between Phases, our pediatric orthodontists will regularly monitor their development to ensure they are on the right track.
Reasons for interceptive orthodontics
There are many reasons why your kids’ orthodontist may recommend early orthodontic treatment. During your child’s developing years, their mouth is at its most flexible.
The best way to know if your child needs any intervention is to schedule a complimentary consultation.
If recommended, early treatment can help address issues such as:
Crowded teeth
Underbites and overbites
Uneven jaws
Tapered dental arches
Premature loss of baby teeth
Genetic predisposition to impacted teeth
Benefits of early orthodontic treatment
Many parents are worried about starting early treatment. It’s only natural to be concerned about your little one’s comfort.
The benefits include:
- Better jaw and tooth development
- An improved starting point for mature tooth eruption
- Decreased risk of jawbone, tooth, or gum injury
- Reducing the likelihood of costly procedures
- Keeping room for unerupted teeth
- Increasing the palate for the back molars
Our braces for kids
Our kids’ braces are Damon® self-ligating braces, meaning they’re more comfortable and work faster than traditional braces! These braces use gentle force to straighten teeth, providing a beautiful, natural smile. Kids can choose from Damon Metal or Damon Clear braces.
How much do braces cost for kids?
The cost of braces for kids varies based on the severity of their orthodontic needs, the type of braces selected, and whether or not your insurance includes coverage for kids’ braces. To find out the specific cost for your child’s braces, we recommend booking a complimentary consultation with our pediatric orthodontists at Hess Orthodontics, located in West Coastal and Central Florida. Following an orthodontic assessment, should your child require treatment, our experts will outline a detailed treatment plan and discuss all associated expenses with you before starting treatment. Hess Orthodontics provides a range of payment plans designed to fit your budget!
Schedule a complimentary consultation
Every child has unique needs during their growing years. Our experienced family orthodontists want to set your child up for a lifetime of natural smiles at Hess Orthodontics. Get started by scheduling a complimentary consultation with our kids’ orthodontists near you today!
