What Are Braces for Children and When Should Your Child Start?
Braces for children are orthodontic appliances that use brackets and wires to correct alignment, bite, and spacing issues during childhood, when the jaw is still growing. Early treatment takes advantage of this growth window to guide development and prevent more complex problems later. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first evaluation by age 7.
Children with crowding, spacing, or bite concerns benefit most from orthodontic treatment while their jaw and teeth are still developing. The ABO Board-Certified orthodontists at Doyle Orthodontics in Washington, PA use this growth window to guide development in ways that simply aren’t available once skeletal maturity is reached.
By age 7, enough permanent teeth have typically erupted for our doctors to identify potential concerns, even if treatment won’t begin for several years. Early evaluation doesn’t always mean early treatment. Often, the most valuable outcome is knowing your child’s development is on track, or having a clear plan if intervention becomes necessary.
Doyle Orthodontics offers two-phase treatment for children who benefit from early interceptive care. Phase one addresses developing concerns at the most advantageous time in your child’s growth. Phase two refines alignment once the adult dentition is in place.
Every young patient receives CBCT imaging as part of their diagnostic workup. This three-dimensional imaging, combined with 3D scanning technology, gives our doctors the full picture of your child’s developing teeth, roots, and jaw structures. Precise diagnosis leads to precise treatment, and when orthodontic concerns are identified early, we can often prevent more involved issues from developing during adolescence.
Benefits of Getting Braces for Your Child at Doyle Orthodontics
Children’s braces correct crowding, crossbites, spacing, and jaw alignment during the growth window when orthodontic treatment is most effective. At Doyle Orthodontics in Washington, PA, ABO Board-Certified orthodontists design treatment plans around each child’s developing teeth and jaw. The key benefits of braces for children include:
- Corrects crowding, spacing, and bite alignment during active jaw growth
- Improves oral hygiene by making teeth easier to clean
- Supports proper jaw development and healthy breathing patterns
- Builds self-confidence during formative years
Childhood and early adolescence offer a distinct period for orthodontic treatment. Your child’s jaw is still growing, which means our doctors can influence its development in ways that become far more difficult once growth is complete.
Crowded teeth create overlapping surfaces where plaque accumulates and brushing becomes ineffective. Straightening these teeth improves oral hygiene, reducing your child’s risk of cavities and gum disease throughout their life.
A straighter smile during formative years can also strengthen self-confidence. Children notice their own teeth, and so do their peers. Addressing alignment concerns during childhood means your child enters their teenage years with a smile they feel good about.
At Doyle Orthodontics, our doctors also include airway management evaluation as part of your child’s assessment. Proper jaw development supports healthy breathing patterns, and orthodontic intervention can sometimes address concerns that affect sleep quality and overall development.
Types of Braces Available for Children
Several braces options are available for children at Doyle Orthodontics in Washington, PA:
- Traditional metal braces remain one of the most reliable and versatile options, appropriate for patients of all ages and case complexities
- Self-ligating brackets use a specialized clip system that can reduce friction and the frequency of adjustment visits
- Clear or ceramic braces provide a more discreet appearance while delivering the same level of correction as metal brackets
The right choice depends on your child’s specific clinical needs, and our doctors will recommend the most effective option during the consultation.
How Children’s Braces Work: The Treatment Process at Doyle Orthodontics
The children’s braces process at Doyle Orthodontics in Washington, PA includes five steps: a same-day consultation with 3D scan, custom treatment planning with CBCT imaging and jaw-motion simulation, same-day start when appropriate, regular adjustments every four to eight weeks, and braces removal with retainer fitting.
Understanding what to expect helps both parents and children feel prepared. The process at our Washington, PA practice, led by ABO Board-Certified orthodontists, is designed to be thorough and efficient for busy families.
Step 1: Same-Day Consultation
Your child’s first visit includes a complimentary examination and 3D scan. Our doctors evaluate your child’s teeth, bite, and jaw development. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss any concerns you’ve noticed at home.
Step 2: Custom Treatment Planning
Using CBCT imaging and articulated models on a jaw-motion simulator, our doctors develop a treatment plan specific to your child’s needs. Few practices in the Washington, PA area use jaw-motion simulation as part of routine diagnostics, and this tool allows us to study how your child’s bite functions dynamically, not just how it looks in a static image. A bite that appears aligned in a photograph can still function poorly in motion, and that distinction matters for long-term outcomes.
Step 3: Same-Day Start Available
If your child is ready to begin treatment, braces can often be placed on the same day as the consultation. Fewer visits mean less time away from school.
Step 4: Regular Adjustment Visits
Throughout treatment, your child will visit our practice every four to eight weeks for adjustments. These visits allow our doctors to monitor progress, assess how the teeth are responding to force, and make precise modifications to keep treatment on track. Parents are welcome to ask questions at any visit, and our team will keep you informed about how treatment is progressing.
Step 5: Braces Removal and Retainer Fitting
When treatment is complete, we remove the braces and fit your child with retainers. Retainers are an essential part of every treatment plan, not something we treat as optional. They maintain the alignment our doctors worked to achieve and protect your investment in a healthy, well-positioned smile.
Is Your Child a Candidate for Braces in Washington, PA?
Children with crowded teeth, bite misalignment, gaps, or mouth breathing are common candidates for braces in Washington, PA. The AAO recommends evaluation by age 7, when enough permanent teeth have erupted for an orthodontist to identify developing concerns.
Some signs are visible at home, while others require professional evaluation to identify.
Common signs that your child may be a candidate for pediatric braces include:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Noticeable gaps between teeth
- Overbite (upper teeth extend significantly over lower teeth)
- Underbite (lower teeth sit in front of upper teeth)
- Crossbite (upper and lower teeth don’t align properly when biting)
- Mouth breathing or difficulty breathing through the nose
Children as young as seven may qualify for Phase 1 treatment, also called early interceptive treatment. This phase focuses on guiding jaw development and creating space for permanent teeth to erupt properly. Not every child needs Phase 1 treatment. Our doctors evaluate each case individually and recommend early intervention only when it will provide meaningful benefit.
Phase 2 treatment typically begins between ages 11 and 14, once most or all permanent teeth have erupted. This phase refines alignment and establishes a stable, functional bite that will serve your child throughout adulthood.
For children with complex orthodontic needs, the doctors at Doyle Orthodontics provide multidisciplinary care. They coordinate with oral surgeons, pediatric dentists, and other specialists as needed to ensure every element of your child’s care is aligned.
If your child has started treatment elsewhere and you’re relocating to the Washington, PA area, Doyle Orthodontics welcomes transfer patients. Our team will obtain records from your previous orthodontist and continue treatment without unnecessary delays.
Why Washington, PA Parents Choose Doyle Orthodontics for Children’s Braces
Families in Washington, PA and surrounding communities choose Doyle Orthodontics because they recognize the difference that specialized training and advanced technology make in their child’s care.
Diagnostics That Go Beyond the Standard
Every patient receives CBCT imaging, 3D scanning, and articulated models on a jaw-motion simulator. This thorough diagnostic process reveals what others might miss and supports treatment planning with exceptional precision.
Treatment Beyond Braces
Doyle Orthodontics offers TMD/TMJ therapy and airway management evaluation in addition to traditional braces and orthodontic services. If your child has jaw pain, headaches, or breathing concerns related to their bite, these issues can be addressed as part of their overall treatment plan.
Payment Plans Built Around Your Family
Most insurance is accepted, and our team will work with you to maximize out-of-network benefits. Interest-free payment plans are structured individually for each family, and CareCredit financing is available for those who prefer a third-party option.
Same-Day Consultations and Same-Day Starts
Fewer visits and less time away from school and activities. We understand that Washington, PA families are busy, and our scheduling reflects that.
Three ABO Board-Certified Specialists
Dr. Cullen J. Doyle, D.M.D., M.S., Dr. Robert F. Good II, D.M.D., M.D.S., and Dr. Ronald S. Good, D.M.D., M.S. all hold ABO Board Certification. This distinction requires rigorous case review and examination beyond the standard requirements for orthodontic practice. Fewer than a third of practicing orthodontists in the United States hold this certification, making it a meaningful differentiator for families evaluating their child’s care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Children’s Braces in Washington, PA
What age should my child first see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, our doctors can identify developing concerns and determine whether early treatment would be beneficial or if monitoring is the better course.
How long do children typically wear braces?
Most children wear braces for 12 to 24 months. Treatment duration depends on the complexity of the case. Phase 1 treatment, when recommended, is often shorter. Our doctors will provide a specific timeline during your child’s consultation based on their individual needs.
Do braces hurt?
Braces don’t cause constant pain, but mild soreness is normal for a few days after the initial placement and following adjustment visits. This discomfort typically resolves on its own. Over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods can help during these brief adjustment periods.
How much do braces for children cost in Washington, PA?
Every treatment plan is different, so we share your child’s exact fee at their complimentary exam. We are a fee-for-service practice, so we are not in-network with insurance, but our team helps you get the most from your out-of-network benefits and offers interest-free in-house payment plans.
Can my child play sports while wearing braces?
Yes. Children can continue playing sports while wearing braces. We recommend using an orthodontic mouthguard, which is designed to fit comfortably over brackets and wires while protecting both the teeth and soft tissues. Our team can advise you on the best mouthguard options for your child’s specific sport and level of activity. Contact sports like football, basketball, and soccer carry the highest risk, so proper protection during these activities is especially important.
Schedule Your Child’s Free Braces Consultation in Washington, PA
A single visit is all it takes to get started. Doyle Orthodontics offers complimentary consultations that include a thorough examination and 3D scan at no cost to your family.
Same-day starts are available for children who are ready to begin treatment. Your child could leave their first visit with braces in place, beginning the process of building a healthy, lasting smile.
Our ABO Board-Certified doctors see patients at our Washington, PA location as well as our offices in Pittsburgh and Pleasant Hills. Call or text Doyle Orthodontics or visit doylesmiles.com to schedule your child’s consultation. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your child’s orthodontic needs and show you why families throughout Washington, PA trust us with their care.