Our children’s orthodontists have years of experience treating young patients with growing mouths.Â
If your kiddo is around age 7, let’s get their complimentary exam scheduled!Â
Dr. Insoft and Dr. Hurst are here to help you make an informed decision for your child’s smile, health, and quality of life!
Early intervention can help prevent the need for jaw surgery, and make the treatment process as quick and comfortable for your child as possible!
There’s no exact age for children to begin orthodontic treatment, but the American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first visit by age 7.
At this stage, most children have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, making it an ideal time to evaluate how the smile and jaw are developing. If needed, early treatment can help guide growth and may reduce the need for more complex procedures later on.
Because every smile develops at its own pace, we take a thoughtful approach and only recommend treatment when the timing is right. If your child isn’t ready for treatment yet, they’ll get to join our Kids Club! This fun, supportive program allows us to monitor their growth and step in at the perfect time for the best results.
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 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.
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.
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!
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.
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.Â
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!
