What Are Braces for Kids?
Braces for kids in Davenport, FL are orthodontic appliances designed to guide jaw growth and align developing teeth in children. Our orthodontists at Shannon Orthodontics often use them as part of interceptive (Phase 1) orthodontics to correct bite issues, create space for incoming permanent teeth, and reduce the need for more involved care later.
Children’s mouths are still growing, and that growth offers a real opportunity. By gently guiding how the jaw develops, our team can address problems before they become harder to fix.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have their first orthodontic check-up by age 7. By this age, enough permanent teeth have come in for our orthodontists to spot developing issues like crowding, crossbites, or jaw misalignment.
Early orthodontics is different from full braces for teens. Phase 1 focuses on guiding growth and correcting specific problems during childhood. Phase 2, usually in the teen years, straightens all the permanent teeth into their final position.
Shannon Orthodontics offers early orthodontics for children right here in Davenport, FL. Our fun and energetic office is a welcoming place for young patients and their families.
Benefits of Braces for Kids in Davenport
Starting orthodontic care early can shape your child’s smile and protect their long-term oral health. Here’s what early braces can do:
- Guide proper jaw growth. Treatment helps the upper and lower jaws develop in balance, creating room for incoming permanent teeth.
- Reduce the need for extractions or surgery in the future. Addressing crowding and bite problems early can prevent more involved procedures as your child grows.
- Correct bite issues and harmful habits. Crossbites, overbites, underbites, and habits like thumb-sucking can be addressed before they cause lasting issues.
- Make oral hygiene easier. Straighter teeth are easier for kids to brush and floss, which supports healthier gums and fewer cavities.
- Boost confidence. A healthy, confident smile helps children feel good about themselves at school, with friends, and in family photos.
- Simplify future treatment. Phase 1 care often shortens or simplifies the second phase of braces during the teen years.
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, early evaluation gives kids the best chance at avoiding more complex problems as they mature. Even if treatment isn’t needed right away, our orthodontists can monitor your child’s growth and recommend the right time to begin.
The Kids Braces Process at Shannon Orthodontics
The braces process at Shannon Orthodontics follows five clear steps: a complimentary new patient exam, digital imaging and personalized treatment planning, placement of braces or an appliance, regular adjustment visits, and a retention phase. Following clinical norms, most children complete active treatment in 12 to 24 months, depending on their needs.
Here’s what your family can expect:
Step 1: Complimentary New Patient Exam
Your child’s first visit is free. Our orthodontists will gently examine your child’s teeth, bite, and jaw to see if treatment is needed and when to begin.
Step 2: Digital Imaging and Personalized Treatment Plan
We capture detailed digital scans and X-rays of your child’s teeth and jaw, so there’s no messy impression putty involved. From there, our team builds a treatment plan around your child’s specific bite, growth pattern, and goals.
Step 3: Placement of Braces or Appliance
Once you’re ready, we’ll schedule the appointment to place your child’s braces or appliance. We take time to explain everything to both you and your child, so there are no surprises along the way.
Step 4: Regular Adjustment Visits in Davenport
Your child will visit our Davenport practice every 4 to 8 weeks for adjustments. These short visits keep treatment on track and let our team monitor progress.
Step 5: Retention Phase with Retainers
After the braces come off, your child will wear a retainer to keep their new smile in place. Retainers help protect all the hard work and ensure long-lasting results.
¡Hablamos español! Our bilingual team is happy to walk Spanish-speaking families through every step.
Does My Child Need Braces? Signs to Watch For
Wondering if your child might need braces? Here are common signs parents can watch for at home:
| Sign | What It May Indicate |
|---|---|
| Early or late loss of baby teeth | Possible spacing or eruption issues |
| Crowded, crooked, or blocked-out teeth | Not enough room for permanent teeth |
| Difficulty chewing or biting | Bite misalignment |
| Mouth breathing or snoring | Possible jaw or airway concerns |
| Thumb-sucking past age 5 | Risk of bite and jaw changes |
| Speech difficulties | Tongue placement or bite issues |
| Jaws that shift, click, or protrude | Jaw alignment concerns |
| Teeth that don’t meet properly | Overbite, underbite, or crossbite |
Even one of these signs is worth a closer look. Some issues are easy to miss without a trained eye, which is why the American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first visit by age 7.
If you notice any of these signs, schedule an evaluation at Shannon Orthodontics. Our orthodontists will let you know whether treatment is needed now, in a year or two, or not at all. Either way, you’ll leave with answers and peace of mind.
Why Families Choose Shannon Orthodontics in Davenport
Families across Davenport, FL trust Shannon Orthodontics with their children’s smiles, and we don’t take that lightly. Here’s what sets our practice apart:
Experienced Orthodontists Who Love Working With Kids
Our orthodontists bring real experience and genuine warmth to every young patient, and they truly enjoy helping children build smiles they’re proud of.
A Fun and Energetic Office
From the moment your family walks in, you’ll feel the warm, welcoming atmosphere. We want kids to feel comfortable and even excited about their visits.
Options That Let Kids Express Themselves
We offer several types of braces, including:
- Traditional metal braces
- Ceramic (clear) braces
- Gold braces
- WildSmiles braces in fun shapes
Care Built Around Your Child
Every child is different, and so is every treatment plan. Our team takes time to understand your child’s specific bite, your family’s goals, and the pace that works best for you.
Trusted Credentials
Shannon Orthodontics is a proud member of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), Southern Association of Orthodontists (SAO), American Dental Association (ADA), and Florida Dental Association (FDA).
Convenient Davenport Location
Our practice serves families throughout Davenport, Celebration, Winter Haven, Auburndale, Kissimmee, Poinciana, and Haines City, making quality orthodontic care easy to reach.
Bilingual Care
Hablamos español, so Spanish-speaking parents feel right at home from their very first phone call to the final retainer check.
Families consistently tell us they appreciate our friendly team and the attentive, one-on-one care we bring to every visit, whether it’s a first exam or a routine adjustment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Braces for Kids
What age should my child get braces?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic visit by age 7. Most children who need braces begin treatment between ages 9 and 14, but every child is different. Some benefit from early (Phase 1) treatment, while others wait until more permanent teeth have come in.
How long does kids’ orthodontic treatment take?
In keeping with typical clinical norms, most children wear braces for about 12 to 24 months, depending on the issues being corrected. Phase 1 (early) treatment is usually shorter, often around 6 to 12 months, followed by a resting period before Phase 2 begins if needed.
Do braces for children hurt?
Braces don’t hurt to put on. Your child may feel some soreness or pressure for a few days after placement and after adjustments, which is completely normal. Soft foods and over-the-counter pain relievers help, and the discomfort usually fades quickly.
How much do braces for kids cost in Davenport, FL?
The cost of braces depends on the type of treatment and how long it takes. At Shannon Orthodontics, we offer financial options and online payment to make care affordable for families. We’ll review all costs with you during your complimentary new patient exam.
Does insurance cover children’s braces?
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits for children. Coverage varies by plan, so our team will help you understand your benefits and answer any questions about payment options.
What is the difference between Phase 1 and Phase 2 treatment?
Phase 1 is early treatment during childhood that guides jaw growth and addresses specific issues while baby teeth are still present. Phase 2 happens later, usually in the teen years, and focuses on aligning all the permanent teeth into their final positions.
Schedule Your Child’s Free Consultation Today
Ready to give your child a healthy, confident smile? Schedule your complimentary new patient exam at Shannon Orthodontics today. Our friendly Davenport team will answer your questions, walk you through the process, and help you decide what’s right for your child. There’s no pressure and no obligation, just clear, honest guidance from people who care.
Call us at 863-353-6867 or book online at your convenience. We offer flexible hours to fit busy family schedules, and hablamos español for our Spanish-speaking families. Whether your child needs braces now or simply a check-up to track their growth, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Shannon Orthodontics proudly serves children and families throughout Davenport, Celebration, Winter Haven, Auburndale, Kissimmee, Poinciana, and Haines City. We are eager to hear from you!