Orthodontic care for children and teens looks different from adult treatment because young patients are still growing. That growth can open up options that are harder to achieve later, and it also shapes when and how treatment happens. For parents, understanding the stages can make the process feel more manageable.
This guide explains what treatment can look like at different ages, the appliances families often encounter, and how kids and teens can adjust to life with braces or aligners. If you are wondering when your child should have a first checkup, our guide on when children should visit covers that question.
Why the Growing Years Matter
The face and jaws continue developing throughout childhood and into the teen years. While that growth is underway, an orthodontist may be able to guide how the jaws develop and create room for permanent teeth, rather than only moving teeth within jaws that have finished growing. Timing treatment around growth is one of the main reasons children’s orthodontics follows a different path than adult care.
Early Treatment for Younger Children
Early treatment, sometimes called Phase 1 or interceptive treatment, begins while some baby teeth are still present. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, the goal is not to rush children into braces. Instead, early care helps an orthodontist address developing problems and, when needed, guide growth.
Early treatment may be recommended for concerns such as a narrow upper jaw, crossbites, significant crowding, protruding front teeth, or habits like thumb sucking that are affecting the bite. Most children who are evaluated early do not need treatment right away, and many are simply monitored.
The Two-Phase Approach
At Backus Smiles, early treatment typically follows a two-phase plan. Our page on early orthodontic care describes it in detail, but the general flow looks like this.
- Phase 1. Appliances are used to correct specific problems while the child is growing.
- Resting period. The remaining permanent teeth come in, often with a retainer in place. Children are usually checked about every six months during this time.
- Phase 2. Once the permanent teeth have come in, braces or aligners are used to fine-tune tooth positions. Our office notes that this phase commonly lasts about 18 to 24 months, though timing depends on each child.
Comprehensive Treatment for Teens
By the teen years, most permanent teeth are in place and the jaws are still developing. The AAO describes this stage as a prime window for treatment, when crowding, spacing, and bite problems can be addressed with options such as braces or clear aligners.
For teens who did not need early treatment, comprehensive treatment is often their first and only phase. For teens who completed Phase 1, it serves as the second phase. You can learn more about our approach on our teen orthodontics page.
Common Appliances for Kids and Teens
Expanders
A palatal expander sits against the roof of the mouth and gradually widens a narrow upper jaw. Expanders are most often used in younger patients because the upper jaw is easier to widen while it is still growing. Parents may be shown how to make small adjustments at home.
Braces
Metal, ceramic, and self-ligating braces are all used for children and teens. Metal braces remain a popular choice for younger patients, and many kids enjoy picking colored ties at each visit.
Clear Aligners for Teens
Some teens are good candidates for clear aligners, including Invisalign® Teen and Spark™ Clear Aligners. Aligners require consistent wear throughout the day, so they tend to work well for teens who are ready to take on that responsibility.
Retainers
Retainers are used after treatment to help teeth stay in place, and they may also be used during the resting period between phases.
What Parents Can Expect With Appointments
Once braces are on, adjustment visits at our office are usually scheduled every 8 to 10 weeks to check progress and hygiene. Early treatment and aligner visits may follow a different schedule, which your orthodontist will explain.
Our office is open Monday through Thursday from half past seven in the morning until half past four in the afternoon, plus two Friday mornings a month. Early morning appointments can help some students miss less class time. It also helps to plan ahead around exams, sports seasons, and school breaks when scheduling longer visits, such as the day braces are placed or removed.
Children should continue seeing their general dentist for checkups and cleanings every six months during treatment.
Helping Kids and Teens Adjust to Braces
The first few weeks bring the biggest changes. A few steps can help.
- Prepare soft foods for the first days. Teeth may feel sore after braces are placed or adjusted, and softer meals can make eating easier.
- Build a brushing routine early. A travel toothbrush in a backpack makes it easier to clean up after lunch.
- Pack an orthodontic kit. Wax, floss threaders, and a small mirror can help with minor irritation away from home.
- Talk about sports and instruments. Mouthguards and practice time can help kids stay active and comfortable.
- Keep the focus positive. Many classmates are going through the same thing, and small rewards for good habits can help younger kids stay motivated.
Our blog shares more tips for adjusting to life with braces, and teens and parents near Vestavia Hills can explore our page on teen orthodontic care.
Every Child’s Plan Is Different
Two children the same age may need very different approaches, depending on growth, bite, and tooth development. An in-person evaluation is the way to learn whether treatment is needed now, later, or at all.
Schedule Your Child’s Visit
Families looking for an orthodontist in Vestavia Hills and nearby communities can visit our Homewood-area office, and the first visit is complimentary. Call (659) 734-1740 or contact our office to find a time that works around the school day.