orthodontics for kids

Building Healthy Smiles from the Start

When Should Your Child First See an Orthodontist?

If you’re wondering about the right time for your child’s first orthodontic evaluation, you’re not alone. Many parents are surprised to learn that the American Association of Orthodontists recommends scheduling an initial orthodontic consultation by age 7, well before all permanent teeth have come in.

Why Age 7 for an Orthodontic Evaluation?

Around age 7, your child has a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth. This gives Dr. Marston the perfect opportunity to evaluate how your child’s jaw is developing and how their permanent teeth are coming in. Even if your child’s smile looks fine to you, an experienced orthodontist can spot potential issues that are easier to address early.

Does Early Evaluation Mean Braces Right Away?

Not necessarily. Early orthodontic evaluations are about creating a personalized timeline for your child. Dr. Marston monitors your child’s growth and development, then recommends treatment only when the timing is right for the best long-term results.

common issues we treat in children

Early detection and treatment of these common childhood orthodontic issues can prevent more complex problems later.

Crowding
When there isn’t enough space for permanent teeth to emerge properly
Spacing
Gaps between teeth that may affect function and appearance
Crossbites
When upper teeth bite inside lower teeth, affecting jaw development
Overbites
When upper front teeth stick out too far over lower teeth
Underbites
When lower teeth protrude past upper teeth
Harmful habits
Thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or mouth breathing patterns

benefits of early orthodontic treatment

Address harmful oral habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting

Guide healthy jaw growth and create proper bite alignment

Make room for permanent teeth before crowding becomes a problem

Improve your child’s facial balance and profile

Boost confidence during important social and developmental years

palatal expanders

Gentle appliances that gradually widen the upper jaw to create space for permanent teeth and improve breathing.

There’s no better time to start transforming your smile. Our practice is proud to offer clear aligners, easy-to-wear, and comfortable alternative to traditional braces. Perfect for teens and adults alike, Invisalign lets you straighten your teeth discreetly while enjoying a modern approach to orthodontic care.

Creates space for crowded teeth
Improves airway and breathing
Corrects crossbites naturally
Works with natural growth patterns

space maintainers

Holding Space for Permanent Teeth

Custom appliances that hold space when baby teeth are lost early, ensuring permanent teeth have room to emerge properly.

Gentle appliances that gradually widen the upper jaw to create space for permanent teeth and improve breathing.

Prevents teeth from shifting

Maintains proper spacing

Reduces need for future extractions

Comfortable and discrete

What is Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment?

Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a specialized process that combines early intervention (Phase 1) during childhood with comprehensive treatment (Phase 2) during the teenage years. This approach takes advantage of a child’s natural growth and development to achieve the best possible results.

The first phase typically occurs between ages 6-10 when children still have most of their baby teeth. The second phase begins around age 11-13 when most permanent teeth have emerged. This sequential approach allows us to address problems at the most optimal times.

Guides proper jaw growth and development

Creates space for permanent teeth

Reduces need for tooth extractions

Improves facial balance and symmetry

understanding each phase

Each phase has specific goals and treatments designed to work with your child’s natural development.

Phase 1 Early Treatments (Ages 7-10)

Correct crossbites and severe crowding

Guide jaw growth and development

Create space for permanent teeth

Address harmful oral habits

Improve facial symmetry

Reduce risk of trauma to protruding teeth

Common Appliances:

Expanders, partial braces, Invisalign First, retainers, and growth modification appliances.

Phase 2 Comprehensive Treatment (Ages 11-14)

Align all permanent teeth properly

Perfect the bite and jaw function

Fine-tune tooth positioning

Establish proper contacts between teeth

Ensure long-term stability

Complete the smile transformation

Common Appliances:

Full braces, clear braces, Invisalign Teen,and retention appliances.

Making Orthodontics Fun for Kids

We believe orthodontic care should be a positive, fun experience that children look forward to.

Kid-friendly environment: welcoming, colorful spaces designed to make children feel comfortable and excited about their visits

Rewards & recognition: fun reward systems to celebrate progress and encourage good oral hygiene habits

Gentle approach: patient, caring treatment that builds trust and confidence with every visit

Family involvement: we work closely with parents to ensure the best care and support at home

Questions Parents Ask

When should my child first see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This doesn’t mean treatment will start immediately, but it allows us to monitor development and identify the optimal time for intervention if needed.

Will my child need braces later if they have early treatment?

Early treatment creates a healthy foundation, but some children may need additional treatment when all permanent teeth have emerged. However, early intervention often reduces the complexity and duration of any future treatment needed.

How do I prepare my child for their first orthodontic visit?

Explain that the orthodontist is a special dentist who helps make smiles healthy and beautiful. Emphasize that the first visit is just to look at their teeth and take pictures. Let them know it won’t hurt and that they’ll learn about keeping their teeth healthy.

How much does orthodontic treatment for children cost?

Treatment costs vary depending on your child’s specific needs. We offer flexible payment plans and work with most insurance providers. Early treatment is often more cost-effective than waiting, as it can prevent more complex issues from developing.

Can my child still play sports during treatment?

Absolutely! We encourage children to stay active. For contact sports, we’ll provide a protective mouthguard. Many treatments like Invisalign First can be removed during sports activities, making participation even easier.

What our patients say

“Amazing staff and care, always taking the best care. Dr Marston is always so caring and encouraging, as well as super supportive to help rework and restrategize the way that he assists your needs.”

John K

“Dr. Marston is absolutely professional, and all the staff are very kind. My case was not easy I had to pause and redo it because of my TMJ but what I appreciate most about Dr. Marston is his patience and dedication throughout the process. My daughter also loves visiting the clinic because of the welcoming, kid-friendly environment.”

MCogan

“Just finished my Invisalign treatment. Awesome experience from beginning to end. I felt very comfortable with every step of the process from the first consultation to receiving my retainers. Every question no matter how dumb it sounded was answered professionally. They even worked with me when I moved overseas to continue my treatment. Thanks a ton Dr. Marston and team! I appreciate all of you.”

Mark S

“The entire staff is not only incredibly friendly but also consistently professional. They always go above and beyond to accommodate our scheduling needs, which we deeply appreciate. Dr. Marston is both knowledgeable and compassionate. He takes the time to explain everything clearly, ensuring that both the patient and their family fully understand the treatment plan and what to expect. We couldn’t ask for a better orthodontic experience—and we highly recommend Marston Orthodontics to anyone in need of care!”

“Dr. Marston is amazing. He does a great job of explaining and setting expectations. He is also very gentle with kids. I used him for all three of my daughters. Highly recommend.”

Tam B