Braces for Kids

Our talented children’s orthodontists have years of experience treating young patients with growing mouths! Request your child’s complimentary exam today.

Orthodontics for Kids

We help you make the best 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 around age 7. Braces at age 8 is common!

By this age, most children have a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth. Our orthodontists are highly-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 future!

With early orthodontic treatment, we can:

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

How to tell if your child needs braces (or another treatment)

Please contact our practice to schedule an appointment for an orthodontic evaluation and discuss braces for children.

Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment

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

Early orthodontic treatment is best separated into two phases, designed to work alongside the natural development of the teeth and jaw bones.

What is Phase 1 treatment?

Phase 1 orthodontic treatment is typically completed between the ages of 7 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 treatment?

This phase 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!

Have questions about braces for kids?

If you’re looking for “kids braces near me”, 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!