Understanding the Role of an Orthodontist
Orthodontists, along with pediatric dentists, play a crucial role in monitoring jaw growth and dental development in children. Kids braces (early orthodontic treatment) care helps with the change to adult teeth. It also addresses possible skeletal problems and stops habits like thumb sucking.
A healthy smile begins with early detection of orthodontic problems. General and pediatric dentists, along with parents, may see early concerns. However, orthodontists are the specialists who diagnose and treat these issues effectively.
Both the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) and the American Dental Association (ADA) recommend that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7.
Cost and Affordability of Orthodontic Treatment
The cost of braces for children varies based on treatment type, complexity, and location.
- Phase I Treatment (Early Orthodontics): This often starts with an expander or facemask. Then, it may include traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, or clear aligners like Invisalign.
- Cost Range: In the Greater Seattle area, early orthodontic treatment typically costs between $2,000 and $4,500. Cities with higher costs, like Bellevue, often have more expenses. This is in contrast to cheaper areas, such as Renton.
Timing: The Best Age for Children to Get Braces
The best age for an orthodontic check-up is before age 7. This is when baby teeth start to change to permanent teeth. However, dental development does not always align with a child’s chronological age. Children with smaller jaws may require early intervention to create enough space for their teeth.
A major advantage of early orthodontic treatment is that teeth move more efficiently in children than in adults. Severe crowding in adults often necessitates extractions, whereas early treatment can help prevent the need for tooth removal.
Adult orthodontics is different than children and has various limitations.
Criteria for Orthodontic Treatment Eligibility
Common orthodontic issues in children that indicate the need for early treatment include:
- Underbites – Lower front teeth extend ahead of the upper front teeth, sometimes causing jaw pain.
- Crossbites – Upper teeth positioned inside the lower teeth.
- Functional Shifts – Jaw shifts to one side when biting.
- Severe Crowding – Teeth misalignment are mostly due to lack of space.
- Excessive Spacing – Large gaps between teeth.
- Extra or Missing Teeth – Congenital or developmental dental anomalies.
- Improper Bite – Teeth meet abnormally or do not meet at all.
- Habit-Related Issues – Thumb, finger, or pacifier-sucking affecting jaw growth.
- Deep Overbites – Excessive overlap causing gum damage.
During the first check-up visit, the orthodontist will look at these factors. They will also check for other issues, like tooth decay or gum disease. X-rays will be taken to assess developing teeth, bone structure, and jaw alignment. Collectively, this leads to developing an effective treatment.
Duration and Phases of Orthodontic Treatment
Phase I orthodontic treatment usually lasts 9 to 14 months. The exact time depends on how severe the orthodontic problem (malocclusion) is.
- Treatment often begins with an expander or facemask if needed.
- This is followed by braces or clear aligners to guide tooth movement.
- Once active treatment is completed, retainers are worn at night for 1–2 years until most adult teeth have erupted.
Treatment Options for Kids’ Braces
Early orthodontic treatment includes:
- Expanders – Widen the upper jaw to correct crossbites and make room for teeth.
- Facemasks – Help correct severe underbites by guiding jaw growth.
- Traditional Metal Braces – The most common option for aligning teeth.
- Ceramic Braces – Less visible alternative to metal braces.
- Clear Aligners (Invisalign) – Aesthetic and removable option for certain cases.
- Habit-Correction Appliances – Devices designed to eliminate thumb-sucking and tongue-thrusting habits.
Meet Dr. Rooz Khosravi – Your Orthodontic Specialist
Dr. Rooz Khosravi is a board-certified orthodontist and an associate professor of orthodontics at the University of Washington.
Dr. Rooz founded PORTH (Personalized Orthodontics), a cutting-edge orthodontic practice with locations in Bellevue and Sammamish, WA. With his extensive academic background and clinical experience, he provides innovative, customized treatment ’s needs. He is an expert in esthetic orthodontic appliances: clear aligners and lingual braces.
FAQs about Kids Braces
What is the best age for braces?
The best time to start treatment depends on the child’s dental development. While some children need early intervention (Phase I) around age 7-9, others may wait until all permanent teeth have come in.
Are braces painful for kids?
Braces can cause some discomfort during adjustments. This discomfort is temporary and can be managed with soft foods and over-the-counter pain relief.
How long does early treatment last?
Most Phase I treatments take 9-14 months, followed by retainer wear. Various treatment plans could have different timelines.
Can kids use Invisalign instead of braces?
Invisalign and other clear aligners can work for some kids. Aligner trays are as effective as archwires to move child’s teeth. Maintaining great oral hygiene is very important in both braces and clear aligners.
Does insurance cover kids’ braces?
Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of braces, but coverage varies. Early treatment for children ages 5 to 12 years old often does not use all the lifetime insurance benefits. It’s best to check with your provider for more details.
Book a Free Consultation
Early orthodontic evaluations help prevent future dental complications. Schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Rooz today to evaluate your child beautiful smile. At this visit we will explore the need for personalized treatment options at our modern orthodontic clinic!
