If braces are on your radar, chances are you’re already thinking ahead, balancing your child’s smile, school schedules, and the right timing for orthodontic care.
Understanding when orthodontic care may be recommended, what options are available, and where treatment can be provided can help you make confident, informed decisions for your child’s smile.
When Do Kids Typically Need Braces?
There isn’t a single “right age” for braces. Every child’s mouth develops differently. However, many orthodontists recommend an initial orthodontic evaluation around age 7, when adult teeth are beginning to emerge, and jaw growth patterns become more visible.
This doesn’t always mean treatment starts right away. In many cases, orthodontic monitoring helps identify whether future treatment may be beneficial and allows providers to plan the most effective timing.
Signs Your Child May Benefit from Orthodontic Care
Parents often begin researching braces after noticing:
Crowded or overlapping teeth
Gaps between teeth
Bite issues (overbite, underbite, or crossbite)
Difficulty chewing or biting
Jaw shifting or clicking
Teeth that don’t seem to be coming in evenly
An orthodontic consultation can help determine whether treatment is needed now, later, or simply monitored over time.
Braces vs. Clear Aligners for Kids and Teens
Orthodontic treatment today offers more flexibility than ever. The best option depends on your child’s needs, age, and dental development.
Traditional Braces
Braces use brackets and wires to gradually move teeth into proper alignment. They are often recommended for more complex orthodontic concerns and cases where precise control of tooth movement is needed.
At ProHEALTH Dental, traditional braces are provided by orthodontists at select locations, specifically:
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are removable, transparent trays designed to gently shift teeth over time. They may be a good option for certain teens and older children who can consistently wear them as directed.
Clear aligner orthodontic treatment is available at all ProHEALTH Dental locations, making it a convenient option for many families.
An orthodontic evaluation will determine which treatment option is most appropriate based on your child’s individual needs.
Are There Treatment Limitations or Requirements?
Orthodontic recommendations are based on a variety of factors, including:
Dental development
Jaw growth
Severity of alignment concerns
Oral hygiene habits
Some children may benefit from early, phased orthodontic treatment, while others may be better suited for treatment during their teen years. Your provider will explain any timing considerations during the consultation so you know exactly what to expect.
What Parents Can Expect During an Orthodontic Consultation
An orthodontic visit typically includes:
A comprehensive dental and bite evaluation
Digital imaging or X-rays, if needed
A discussion of treatment options and timing
Recommendations tailored to your child’s development
Parents are encouraged to ask questions about duration, maintenance, and what daily care may look like during treatment.
Supporting Your Child During Orthodontic Treatment
Whether your child has braces or clear aligners, success depends on consistency and good oral habits. This includes:
Regular brushing and flossing
Attending scheduled appointments
Following dietary recommendations
Wearing aligners as prescribed, if applicable
Your ProHEALTH Dental care team will provide guidance every step of the way.
Schedule an Orthodontic Evaluation with ProHEALTH Dental
ProHEALTH Dental offers orthodontic solutions designed to support healthy, confident smiles at every stage of development.
Braces are available with orthodontists at our Mt Kisco and Lake Success locations
Clear aligner treatment is available at all ProHEALTH Dental offices
If you’re considering orthodontic care for your child or teen, scheduling a consultation is the best place to start. Our team can help determine the right approach based on your child’s unique needs and treatment goals.
Give your child a confident start with a smile they’ll love. Contact ProHEALTH Dental today to schedule an orthodontic consultation and explore braces or clear aligner options tailored to their needs.