Pediatric Orthodontics

Parents and kids alike know that many children need braces for a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.

So what is pediatric orthodontics?

Orthodontic treatment in young children is pediatric orthodontics, and it can begin as early as age 6. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends seeing an orthodontist by age seven, soon after your child has started losing their baby teeth. At this age, the teeth and jaw are still developing and growing. So certain conditions, like crowding, may be easier to address. Bringing your child to an orthodontist at this time allows the doctor to evaluate your child’s smile and determine whether – and exactly when – orthodontic treatment is needed.

See BRO’s early prevention page for more about orthodontic treatment of young children.

At Blue Ridge Orthodontics, the majority of our patients are minors. We recognize that kids, teens and adults have different needs — and we’re committed to providing personalized attention and care to all ages. We also offer free new patient consultations. Just call our office at 828-585-6045 to schedule today. We’ll take x-rays or pictures, and then you’ll meet with one of our doctors to discuss your child’s smile at no cost. Many kids under 11 years old are not ready for treatment, but catching things earlier can avoid more extensive and costly treatment later. And there will be no charge for follow-up observations until your child is ready for treatment!

Why Do Some Kids Need Braces?

As a parent, you may have noticed something about your child’s smile that makes you wonder if you should see an orthodontist. Or maybe your family dentist has recommended you take that step. Here in Western North Carolina, the BRO team often sees young children because of these signs:

  • Early or late loss of baby teeth (usually children begin to lose baby teeth around age five)
  • Difficulty chewing and/or biting
  • Mouth breathing
  • Thumb-sucking now or in the past
  • Speech impediments
  • Protruding teeth (the top teeth and the bottom teeth extend away from each other)
  • Teeth that don’t come together normally or at all
  • Too much space between teeth
  • Jaw shifting when opening or closing the mouth (crossbite)
  • Crowded front teeth

If your child has one of these conditions, our doctors will work to create an individualized orthodontic treatment plan. Please call us at 828-585-6045, and we can set up a free consultation at our office.

What Treatment Options Are Available for Children?

For children who require orthodontic treatment, we offer a variety of options to fit each child’s unique smile. The treatment options offered at Blue Ridge Orthodontics include:

  • Traditional metal braces
  • Ceramic braces
  • Lingual braces

For teens, we also offer:

  • Invisalign®
  • Impressions at-home Invisalign® treatment

See our braces, Invisalign® and Impressions pages for more information on these options. Or visit our FAQs for answers to questions that the BRO team often is asked.

Want to learn about how the BRO team can help your child?

You can schedule a complimentary patient consultation today. Our doctors and treatment coordinator can’t wait to meet you and your child, and to answer any questions you may have.

Call 828-585-6045 or  complete our contact form to make an appointment today — and take the first step toward a more beautiful and healthy smile for your child!

Make an appointment for a free new patient exam for your child today!

We’ll help you take the first step toward a new smile.