Braces for Kids

Our children’s orthodontists have years of experience treating young patients with growing mouths. 

If your kiddo is around age 7, let’s get their complimentary exam scheduled! 

Orthodontics for Kids

Dr. Insoft and Dr. Hurst are here to help you make an informed decision for your child’s smile, health, and quality of life!

When is the best age to get braces?

While there is no exact age for children to begin orthodontic treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends visiting the orthodontist by age 7. 

Not every child needs orthodontic treatment, but those who do can benefit for a lifetime! 

By this age, most children have a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth. Our orthodontists are trained in diagnosing and treating tooth and jaw problems during this developmental phase. Starting treatment at this age with children’s braces (if necessary) can eliminate the need for jaw surgery in the teen years!

With early orthodontic treatment, we can:

For parents, it’s not always easy to know if your child may need orthodontic treatment.

Signs That Your Child Needs Braces or Invisalign

If you recognize any of the following signs or symptoms, it’s time to book your kiddo’s first visit — it’s complimentary!

Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment

Two-phase orthodontic treatment can help your child experience a healthy, beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime.

Early orthodontic treatment is best separated into two phases, designed to work with the natural development of the teeth and jaw bones. With this approach, we align the foundation of the smile (jaw bones), then the teeth.

What is Phase 1 orthodontics?

Phase 1 orthodontic treatment is typically completed between the ages of 6 and 10 and is aimed to prepare the mouth for permanent teeth to emerge in a healthy alignment with a sufficient amount of space.

During this phase, your child may be treated with a palatal expander appliance to widen the upper jaw and create enough room for permanent teeth to grow.

What is Phase 2 orthodontics?

Phase 2 orthodontics generally begins in the early teen years, when all of the permanent teeth have erupted. Phase 2 treatment focuses on aligning the teeth and jaws to create a harmonious facial appearance. During this phase, a full treatment of braces or Invisalign is often completed.

Every child develops at a different rate, and your child’s treatment plan will be 100% personalized to his or her needs. At your first visit, we’ll help you make the right choice for your little one!

How to Find Out if Your Child Needs Braces or Invisalign

Getting started is easy! Here’s what to do:

1. Book your child’s first visit with our St. Petersburg or Seminole orthodontic office.

2. Bring your kiddo in for a complimentary exam with one our kids’ orthodontists, Dr. Insoft or Dr. Hurst. We’ll explain your little one’s dental condition to you, and answer all of your questions!

3. Your orthodontist will design a personalized treatment plan that treats their condition, and/or prevents emerging conditions from progressing.

Let's Create a Healthy, Happy Smile!

If you’re looking for kids braces near you, we’d love to meet you! We’re here to answer your questions, and we want you to know your options. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at any time. 

Dr. Insoft, Dr. Hurst and our experienced team are here to help guide you throughout your treatment process, from your first visit to your last visit.

Ready to begin your smile transformation process? Let’s get started with your complimentary exam at one of our convenient Seminole or St. Petersburg locations!