Woodbury Family Orthodontist

Orthodontics for Children

Many parents are surprised to learn that the American Association of Orthodontists advises that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This early checkup helps ensure that your child’s teeth and jaws are developing properly and that their bite is on track for long-term oral health.

By age 7, most children have enough permanent teeth for an orthodontist to spot potential issues with tooth alignment or jaw growth. Visiting Henseler & Kocian Orthodontics at this stage doesn’t mean your child will need braces right away. In fact, their bite may be developing just fine. In some cases, we may recommend simply monitoring their growth and beginning treatment when the time is right. For others, early intervention may be beneficial to prevent more serious problems later on.

Early orthodontic care gives us the chance to guide jaw development and catch problems before they progress. In many cases, this can reduce the need for more extensive treatment in the future and even shorten the total time in braces.

Orthodontic Care for Teens

One of the first questions teens ask is, “How long will I need braces?” The answer depends on the individual—since every smile is unique, so is every treatment plan. What we can promise is that we’ll work hard to help your teen achieve a beautiful, confident smile as efficiently as possible.

Today’s orthodontic options are far more advanced than what previous generations experienced. Braces are now smaller, more comfortable, and available in a variety of materials, colors, and styles. Teens who prefer a less noticeable option can choose clear ceramic braces, which blend in with their natural teeth while providing the same effectiveness as metal braces.

For those who want to skip brackets and wires altogether, clear aligners like Invisalign are another great option. These removable trays are custom-made to fit over the teeth and gradually move them into place—all while being nearly invisible.