An orthodontist helps straighten teeth and align jaws to improve function and appearance. If your child has crowded teeth, an overbite, or spacing issues, an orthodontist can correct these problems with braces, clear aligners, or retainers. These treatments guide teeth into better positions, making it easier to chew, speak, and smile with confidence.
Orthodontists don’t just fix crooked teeth—they also track how your child’s mouth develops over time. Around age six or seven, permanent teeth start growing in, and early signs of misalignment can appear. Regular checkups help catch problems before they become harder to fix. If needed, an orthodontist may recommend early treatments like an expander or a habit-breaking appliance. These can create more space for adult teeth or help stop thumb sucking, which can affect jaw growth.
Fixing alignment issues improves more than just looks. A well-aligned bite helps prevent uneven wear on teeth and reduces strain on the jaw. It also makes brushing and flossing easier, which lowers the risk of cavities and gum disease. Orthodontic care gives your child a strong foundation for lifelong oral health.
Going to an Orthodontist vs. a Dentist
While some dentists offer braces or Invisalign, they are not specialized in orthodontics. An orthodontist spends extra years learning how to correct alignment issues and focus their practice solely on orthodontic patients.
If your child needs braces or another type of orthodontic treatment, it’s best to see an orthodontist. Because of their extra training, narrower focus, and more consistent experience, they are better equipped to handle orthodontics cases, especially if they are more severe or complex.
How To Pick a Good Orthodontist
Choosing the right orthodontist for your child is an important decision. Treatment can take years, so you want a specialist who is skilled, experienced, and easy to work with, since you’ll be working together for the long-haul.
Here is what you can look for:
- A licensed orthodontic specialist, not just a general dentist offering braces
- Experience with different treatments, including Invisalign and early intervention options
- Positive reviews from other parents and patients
- A clean, comfortable office with a welcoming staff
- A specialist who takes time to explain treatment and answer your questions
- A place where both you and your child feel at ease, since you’ll be visiting regularly
A good orthodontist will not only fix teeth but also guide your child’s jaw growth and development. A specialist who understands your concerns and makes your child comfortable can make a big difference in the treatment process.
Questions to Ask
Before committing to an orthodontist, ask questions about their approach and treatment process. A good orthodontist will take the time to give clear, detailed answers.
Helpful questions include:
- What treatments do you offer, and which is best for my child?
- How long will the treatment take?
- What are the costs, and do you offer payment plans?
- How often will my child need checkups?
- What happens if something breaks or an issue comes up between visits?
The right orthodontist will give you honest answers and make sure you feel confident in your decision. Asking these questions helps you understand the process, compare different options, and choose the best fit for your family.
Should You Get a Second Opinion?
Many parents seek a second opinion while shopping for an orthodontist. Different orthodontists may suggest different approaches, and comparing options can give you a better idea of what’s best for your child. Some orthodontists focus on early intervention, while others may recommend waiting. A second opinion helps you understand if the recommended treatment is necessary or if another approach might work just as well.
Seeking another evaluation is also helpful if you feel unsure about the diagnosis or expected timeline. If one orthodontist suggests years of treatment and another offers a shorter plan, it’s worth asking why. Orthodontists have different philosophies, and while most follow standard guidelines, some may be more conservative or proactive in their approach.
Bringing X-rays and records to your second consultation is a also good idea because it allows the new orthodontist to give a clear assessment without repeating tests.
Can You Switch Orthodontists?
Switching orthodontists is possible, but it’s not always simple. If you’re moving to a new city or unhappy with your child’s current treatment, finding a new orthodontist may be the best choice. However, transferring treatment may involve extra costs, updated scans, and new records. Some orthodontists charge transfer fees, and others may need to adjust the treatment plan based on their approach.
If you’re thinking about switching, it’s important to discuss the process with both the current and new orthodontist. Ask about fees, insurance coverage, and how the change might affect your child’s progress. Some orthodontists use different brackets or techniques, which could mean making adjustments before continuing treatment.
Most families stay with the same orthodontist for the full treatment, but there are valid reasons to switch. If you feel uncomfortable with the current provider, struggle with appointment scheduling, or have concerns about the quality of care, finding a better fit is worth considering. Before making a decision, weigh the benefits of switching against the possible challenges, and make sure the new orthodontist is a good match for your child’s needs.
Read our full guide on how to switch orthodontists here
Kids Dental Group Offers Free Orthodontic Consultations
Choosing an orthodontist is a big decision, and you want to be sure you’re making the right choice for your child. At Kids Dental Group, we offer free consultations so you can explore your options without any pressure. During the visit, our orthodontist will examine your child’s teeth, take X-rays if needed, and explain the best treatment plan. You’ll get clear answers about what to expect, how long treatment will take, and the costs involved.
We believe orthodontic care should be easy to access. That’s why we also offer free monitoring checkups for younger children who may not need treatment right away. If your child’s teeth are still developing, we’ll track their growth and let you know the right time to start treatment. We also provide flexible, interest-free payment plans to help make orthodontic care more affordable.
Book Your Appointment with Us Today
If you’re thinking about orthodontic treatment for your child, now is a great time to start. A consultation will give you the information you need to make the best decision. Whether your child needs braces soon or just an early evaluation, we’re here to help.