Braces for Kids & Teens
A straighter smile can support better oral health and build lasting
confidence for your child.Get started with a
free orthodontic consultation for kids today.
Braces and care kits designed specifically for kids’ growing smiles
From treatment options to at-home care, we have everything kids need for a healthier smile.
Stainless steel
braces
Durable metal brackets and wires work together to gently straighten your teeth.
Gold
braces
Add some shine with gold-plated brackets that offer the same reliable performance as stainless steel.
Braces care
kits
Support your smile during and after braces with dentist-recommended at-home care kits.
When Should My Child Get Braces?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This early visit helps identify potential issues with jaw growth, bite, or spacing while your child’s smile is still developing.
It doesn’t mean braces will start right away. Many kids are simply monitored until the timing is right. Most children begin treatment between ages 9–14, once their permanent teeth have come in.
What to Expect from Start to Finish
Getting braces is a step-by-step process designed to support your child’s growing smile:
- Consultation: Exam of teeth, bite, and jaw development
- Imaging: X-rays, photos, or digital scans
- Plan: Personalized treatment and timeline
- Braces: Placement and a care kit to get started
- Check-ins: Regular visits every 4–8 weeks
- Retention: Retainers to keep their smile in place after treatment
Treatment Options for Growing Smiles
Every child is different, which is why orthodontic care isn’t one-size-fits-all. Options may include:
- Traditional metal braces
- Clear ceramic braces for a more subtle look
- Removable aligners for qualifying patients
In some cases, early (Phase 1) treatment may be recommended to guide jaw growth and create space for incoming teeth—helping reduce the need for more complex treatment later.
What Parents Should Know
Braces are a safe and effective way to improve your child’s smile and oral health.
Most kids wear braces for 18–24 months, with check-ins every 4–8 weeks. Mild soreness is normal at first or after adjustments, but it’s temporary and manageable.
Factors like genetics, thumb sucking, or early tooth loss can all affect how teeth develop—but orthodontic treatment can help correct these issues and set your child up for long-term success.
Find a Kids & Teens Orthodontist Near You
Life with braces: What to expect
Braces take some getting used to, especially for kids. There’s a lot to learn, from brushing tips and foods to avoid to how to care for braces at home. Our team is here to make the experience easier every step of the way.
Affordable payment
options for dental care
We accept most insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, and offer financing options to fit your budget. Whether you’re insured or not, we’ll help find a solution that works for you.
Hear what’s making our patients smile
Brident Dental took good care about my cleaning teeth and teeth implant Thank you
Excellent experience overall. The staff was friendly and professional, and the dentist was very gentle and skilled. The clinic was clean and modern. The treatment was quick and comfortable. I’m very satisfied with the service.
Amazing office with amazing people. We went today for my daughter general and braces check and Dr. Shah was so nice and Zeinab was so helpful with the cleaning & Noemi is always one of out favorite nurses 🥰 they always work with my busy schedule and make my appointment time easy and stressful less.
Braces for kids FAQs
Following guidance from the American Association of Orthodontists, we recommend children get their first orthodontic exam by age seven. You can book a free orthodontic consultation for your child at a Brident location near you.
Here are some common signs that your child may need an orthodontic evaluation:
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing
- Thumb sucking beyond early childhood
- Crowded or misaligned teeth
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Bite that seems off or uneven
- Jaw that shifts, clicks, or looks misaligned
If your child shows any of these signs, schedule a free orthodontic consultation at a Brident location near you.
Braces help straighten smiles, fix bite problems like underbites and overbites, and close gaps or adjust teeth that stick out. Braces can also make it easier to keep teeth clean in the long run by fixing spots where food and bacteria can get trapped. A healthier, more aligned smile can also boost confidence.
It’s normal for your child’s mouth to feel sore after getting braces or having them tightened. Braces can take time to get used to and can rub against the inside of the mouth. If discomfort continues, your dentist may recommend remedies like dental wax to help ease irritation.
Brident offers children’s dental care at all of our locations, but we also have dedicated pediatric (kids-only) offices. Our pediatric offices provide full-service care for infants, children, teens, and patients with special needs. You can expect friendly and safe dental care from a dedicated team of dentists, hygienists, orthodontists, and specialists trained to support young patients with extra attention and care.