Choosing the right orthodontic treatment for your child is a big decision. As a parent, you might be wondering: What age do kids usually get braces? How much do braces cost for kids? Can kids get clear aligners (Invisalign® or 3M™ Clarity™) instead of braces?
We’re here to help! At Premiere Orthodontics, we specialize in orthodontics for kids, helping families in Orlando (Winter Springs, Oviedo and Waterford Lakes) navigate orthodontic treatment with confidence.
Whether you’re considering braces or clear aligners for your kiddo, this guide answers the most common questions parents have about their child’s orthodontic care.
You’ll also want to hear about our exclusive Lifetime Guarantee that protects your investment and your little one’s smile for life!
What Age Do You Get Braces?
You don’t have to wait until your child is a teenager to visit an orthodontist in Oviedo, Winter Springs or Waterford Lakes. According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), children should have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7.
At this age, a child’s jaw is still growing, and their mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth allows Dr. Battle, our board-certified orthodontist, to spot alignment issues early on. The best way to determine when to start treatment is by bringing your kiddo into our orthodontic office for a complimentary consultation at age 6 or 7.
Dr. Battle is the only board-certified orthodontist in Winter Springs, Oviedo and Waterford Lakes! He’s achieved the highest level of expertise in the area. With Premiere Orthodontics, you and your little one are in the best hands.
We’re here to provide a professional opinion, a full orthodontic exam, and a personal consultation to answer all of your questions about kids’ orthodontics and the lifelong benefits of early intervention — at no cost.
Your kiddo’s smile is guaranteed at Premiere Orthodontics.
With Dr. Battle, your investment in your child’s orthodontic treatment is guaranteed and insured. You won’t find this promise with any other Orlando orthodontist.
If your child experiences “orthodontic relapse”, meaning they completed a full orthodontic treatment but stopped wearing their retainer and their teeth returned to their original positions, we will replace their braces!
Your only financial responsibilities will be a nominal monthly charge for adjustments, as well as the cost of a new retainer. While we hope that you wear your retainer full-time following your first treatment, we understand that life happens.
Your child’s beautiful new smile is intended to last a lifetime, and we’re here to help ensure that with our Lifetime Guarantee.
Can Kids Get Invisalign or 3M Clarity Clear Aligners Instead of Braces?
Yes! Clear aligners aren’t just for adults—kids can benefit from the same treatment their siblings and parents use. Invisalign First and kids’ clear aligners are designed specifically for growing smiles, working alongside the natural development of their teeth and jaws.
That said, clear aligner treatment requires a level of responsibility. Since aligners are removable, kids must commit to wearing them for 20–22 hours a day for their treatment to be effective. If your child is likely to forget or misplace them, braces might be the better choice!
So, is Invisalign better than braces? The answer depends on your child’s lifestyle and orthodontic needs. We’re your partners in creating a beautiful, healthy smile for your child, and we’ll help you weigh the advantages of all of our treatment options.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Get Invisalign or 3M Clarity?
There’s no exact age requirement for Invisalign or 3M Clarity, but children can start treatment around age 6 if needed!
Here’s how it works:
- For younger kids (Ages 6–10) – We can intervene in problematic conditions before they progress, and address jaw development and spacing issues while baby teeth are still present. Kids’ clear aligners are designed to hold space for permanent teeth to erupt, and prevent neighboring teeth from shifting into these gaps.
- For preteens & teens (Ages 11–17) – Once all adult teeth have erupted, clear aligners can correct alignment issues just like braces!
How Much Do Braces Cost for Kids?
The cost of orthodontics for kids depends on their personalized treatment plan, based on the complexity of their case. On your first visit, we’ll discuss the cost of your kiddo’s treatment, and create a custom financing plan that meets your needs.
Kids’ orthodontic treatment with Premiere Orthodontics is more affordable than you may think! We’re proud to offer all treatment options at the same price – with no down payment or low monthly payments.
Choose from easy 0% interest in-house financing, Care Credit financing or Lending Point financing to spread the cost out over time – in a way that works for you.
Your dental insurance plans may offer coverage for orthodontic treatment too! We accept all PPO insurance plans, HMO and DeltaCare, and are here to help you understand your insurance benefits. We’ll do all of the paperwork for you to help you receive the maximum benefit from your plan.
Investing in early orthodontic treatment can prevent costly dental issues down the road, prevent the need for more complex treatment routes (like jaw surgery) to correct progressed conditions, and set the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles!
Is Invisalign Better Than Braces?
One of the most common questions parents ask is “Is Invisalign better than braces?” The truth is, neither is universally “better”—each option has unique benefits depending on your child’s needs, lifestyle, and commitment to wearing aligners throughout the day and night.
Advantages of Braces
Braces are a tried-and-true method for straightening teeth and correcting complex bite issues. They work around the clock since they’re fixed to the teeth, meaning there’s no risk of forgetting to wear them.
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- Effective for all cases – We braces, we can correct all conditions – from mild crowding to severe misalignment and bite issues.
- No compliance necessary – Since braces stay in place 24/7, there’s no risk of your kiddo removing them or forgetting to wear them.
- Customizable – Kids can personalize their braces with colorful bands, making treatment a little more fun!
- Options – We also offer custom, hidden InBrace™ braces attached to the back surfaces of the teeth, as well as Clarity™ clear braces and metal braces.
Advantages of Invisalign or 3M Clarity
Many kids and teens prefer clear aligners, because it’s discreet and doesn’t come with food restrictions.
- Removable for eating & cleaning – Kids can eat all their favorite foods without worrying about breaking a bracket. Their brushing and flossing routine won’t require any changes, too!
- Virtually invisible – Clear aligners are nearly undetectable, making them a popular choice for kids and teens who may not love the look of braces.
- Fewer office visits – Aligners are switched out at home every 1-2 weeks, and don’t require ‘tightening’ or adjustments. Plus, as the only digital orthodontist, we offer DentalMonitoring for convenient virtual visits throughout treatment — you’ll only have to visit us when absolutely necessary. That means fewer office visits and more time spent with friends!
How Long Does Orthodontic Treatment Take?
Every smile is unique and every orthodontic journey is different, but most treatments fall within these timeframes:
- Braces: 18–24 months
- Invisalign: 12–18 months (depending on aligner wear compliance)
Some children require two-phase orthodontic treatment, where an early phase (ages 7–10) addresses jaw development, followed by a second phase (ages 11–14) for fine-tune alignment.
Which one should your kiddo choose?
The decision between braces and clear aligners depends on your child’s specific needs and preferences. If they’re committed to wearing their aligners and prefer a more discreet treatment, clear aligners could be a great fit.
If you’re unsure which treatment is best for your little one, a visit to one of our modern orthodontic offices in Oviedo, Winter Springs or Waterford Lakes can help you decide! Dr. Battle and our team will help you weigh the advantages of all of our treatment options, so you and your child can make the right decision for their smile.
Debunking Myths About Orthodontic Treatment for Kids
Let’s debunk some common misconceptions:
- Myth 1: Kids don’t need to see an orthodontist until all their adult teeth come in.
- Fact: Early orthodontic evaluations are recommended by age 7. This allows us to detect and prevent major alignment issues, even with a mixed dentition of baby teeth and adult teeth!
- Myth 2: Invisalign isn’t as effective as braces.
- Fact: Guided by Dr. Battle’s expert treatment plan, clear aligners can correct many of the same alignment issues as braces when worn properly.
- Myth 3: Braces and Invisalign are only needed for cosmetic reasons.
- Fact: While a beautiful smile is a major benefit of orthodontic treatment, it isn’t the only one! Straight teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of oral health issues, like gum disease, cavities and uneven wear.
Book your child’s complimentary consultation today!
Whether you’re considering braces or clear aligners, the key is starting the conversation early. Early orthodontic evaluations help us determine the least invasive treatment route for your child, minimizing discomfort from treatment and reducing treatment time.
At Premiere Orthodontics near you, we’re here to answer all your questions, guide you through every step of your child’s orthodontic journey — and give you the most convenient treatment experience with digital care options.
