Reviewed By Dr. Jodi Kuhn
Reading time: 7 minutes
Kids grow fast, and so do their smiles. As new teeth come in, it’s common for parents to notice little shifts—crowding here, spacing there, or maybe a bite that doesn’t look quite right. Early orthodontic treatment helps guide that growth, setting the stage for a healthy smile and making future treatment easier when it’s needed.
We provide orthodontic evaluations and treatment for kids at our offices in Denver, Aurora, Thornton, and Hampden.
Table of Contents
When Should Kids Get Braces?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic checkup around age 7. At this stage, permanent teeth are coming in, and orthodontists can identify crowding, spacing, or bite issues.
Braces aren’t always needed right away. Some children may simply be monitored for changes, while others benefit from a two-phase approach:
- Phase One (Early treatment): Guides jaw growth, creates space for permanent teeth, and corrects bite issues.
- Phase Two (Later treatment): Fine-tunes alignment once all permanent teeth are in place.
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment
Early orthodontic treatment, helps guide a child’s jaw growth and create space for permanent teeth to come in properly. When started at the right time, it can:
- Address crowding or spacing issues before they worsen
- Correct bite problems that affect chewing or speech
- Help stop harmful habits like thumb sucking
- Reduce the risk of injury to protruding front teeth
- Support balanced facial growth and overall oral development
Phase One Orthodontic Treatment Methods
During Phase One treatment, the goal is to guide jaw growth and make room for permanent teeth. Since most children at this stage still have a mix of baby and adult teeth, orthodontists often use gentle, preventive methods rather than full braces. Treatment options may include:
- Palatal expanders to widen the upper jaw and create space
- Partial braces on select teeth to correct alignment
- Space maintainers to hold proper spacing after early tooth loss
- Habit appliances to discourage thumb sucking or tongue thrusting
These early interventions can help avoid more extensive treatment later and ensure the jaw and teeth develop in harmony.
Types of Braces for Kids
Once most or all permanent teeth have come in, full orthodontic treatment can begin. At this stage, your child may be ready for:
- Traditional metal braces: Durable and reliable, often the most affordable.
- Ceramic braces: Tooth-colored, making them less noticeable.
- Self-ligating braces: Uses clips instead of rubber bands, which may reduce treatment time.
- Clear aligners (Invisalign): Removable trays, best for mild to moderate cases.
Invisalign® vs Braces for Kids
Invisalign and braces can both straighten teeth effectively. The right choice depends on your child’s needs and the complexity of their orthodontic case.
Invisalign (Clear Aligners)
Invisalign uses a series of clear trays that gently move teeth over time.
- Nearly invisible: The trays are clear, so they’re barely noticeable.
- Removable: They come out for eating, brushing, and flossing, making daily care easier.
- Comfortable fit: With no wires or brackets, there’s less irritation to the mouth.
- Needs consistency: Aligners should be worn 20–22 hours a day to stay on schedule.
Braces
Braces use small brackets and wires to guide teeth into alignment.
- Reliable results: They stay in place and work continuously throughout treatment.
- Treats complex cases: Braces can correct crowding, bite problems, and tooth rotations.
- Customizable look: Colorful bands make treatment more fun for children.
- Requires careful cleaning: Extra time is needed to brush and floss around brackets and wires.
Some children do well with the flexibility and appearance of Invisalign, while others benefit more from the consistency of traditional braces. Braces are often best for younger patients who may forget to wear aligners, while Invisalign can be a great option for older, responsible children who want a more discreet treatment.
Helping Your Child Smile with Confidence
Early orthodontic treatment supports healthy growth, prevents bigger problems later, and builds confidence. Whether your child needs early intervention or is ready for full treatment, our team can guide you every step of the way.
Contact Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics to schedule an appointment at any of our locations.
📍Denver Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 1400 Grove Street, Denver, CO 80204 | (303) 825-2295
📍Aurora Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 14251 E. 6th Avenue, Aurora, CO 80011 | (303) 343-3133
📍Thornton Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 550 E. Thornton Parkway, Suite 240A, Thornton, CO 80229 | (303) 280-8878
📍Hampden Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 7400 East Hampden Ave. Unit C1, Denver, CO 80231 | (720) 826-3694
FAQs
What is the best age to start braces?
Most children begin orthodontic treatment between ages 9 and 14, once most permanent teeth have come in. However, an evaluation around age 7 allows the orthodontist to spot developing issues and determine the best time to start treatment.
Do all kids need early orthodontic treatment?
Some children benefit from early treatment to guide jaw growth or correct bite issues, but many can wait until most permanent teeth have erupted before starting braces. The orthodontist will recommend the best timing based on your child’s specific needs.
Is Invisalign as effective as braces for kids?
Both treatments can successfully straighten teeth, but they work best for different situations. Invisalign is ideal for simpler alignment or spacing issues, while braces are better suited for more complex movements that require precise adjustments.
How long do kids usually wear braces?
On average, 18–24 months, though treatment time depends on each child’s needs.
Where can I find braces for kids near me?
If you’re looking for family-friendly orthodontic care, Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics has offices in Denver, Aurora, Thornton, and Hampden. Our team provides both braces and Invisalign options for children.
