Braces for kids in Portland OR use brackets and wires to gently straighten teeth and correct bite issues while your childโs jaw is still growing. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At Senestraro Family Orthodontics, we help Portland families figure out the right time and approach for their childโs smile. Weโre not your typical practice, and unleashing your smile is easy when youโve got the right team in your corner.
Early evaluation doesn’t always mean early care. Sometimes we simply monitor growth and development until the time is right. For other kids, starting sooner can make a big difference in their overall care.
What Are Braces for Kids?
Braces for kids are orthodontic appliances designed to gently shift growing teeth and guide jaw development during childhood. They use a combination of brackets bonded to each tooth, an archwire that applies steady pressure, and small elastic bands that hold everything in place. Over time, this gentle force moves teeth into healthier positions and corrects bite issues like overbites, underbites, and crowding.
Kids’ braces differ from adult braces in a few key ways. Because children’s jaws are still developing, our team can use that growth to our advantage, often making care faster and more predictable than waiting until adulthood. Many kids also qualify for two-phase care: an early Phase 1 around ages 7 to 9 to address bite or spacing concerns, followed by Phase 2 braces once more permanent teeth come in.
The three main options for kids include traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, and clear aligners. Each works in a slightly different way, and Dr. Seth Senestraro, DDS will recommend what fits your child best after a free consult.
Types of Braces We Offer
Here’s a quick look at how the three main options compare:
Most children do well with traditional metal braces. These are the classic brackets and wires you probably picture when you think of braces. They’re reliable, effective, and kids often enjoy picking colorful bands at each visit.
A second popular option, ceramic braces, works the same way but uses tooth-colored brackets that blend in more. These appeal to older kids and preteens who want a less noticeable look.
For some older kids and teens, clear aligners like Invisalign can be a fit, though traditional braces remain the go-to choice for most younger patients. Dr. Seth will recommend the best option based on your child’s specific needs and growth pattern.
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Care for Children
Starting orthodontic care at the right time gives your child real advantages. Here’s what early care can do:
- Guides jaw growth: Corrects bite issues like overbites, underbites, and crossbites while bones are still developing
- Creates room for permanent teeth: Reduces crowding and helps permanent teeth come in with enough space
- Improves daily function: Better chewing, clearer speech, and easier breathing
- Builds confidence during important school-age years when kids really start to notice their smiles
- Simplifies future care: Phase 1 intervention can shorten or reduce the complexity of Phase 2 braces
- Supports oral health: Straighter teeth are easier to brush and floss, lowering cavity and gum disease risk
The AAO notes that certain conditions respond best to care while a child is still growing. Catching these issues early can save time and discomfort down the road.
Early action often makes later phases simpler and more predictable. That means fewer surprises for parents and a smoother experience for kids.
Phase 1 vs Phase 2: What’s the Difference?
Phase 1 (early interceptive care) usually happens between ages 7 and 9, while some permanent teeth are still coming in. The goal isn’t to perfectly align every tooth. Instead, our team focuses on guiding jaw growth, creating space, and addressing bite issues before they become harder to fix. Phase 1 often uses partial braces, expanders, or other targeted appliances and lasts around 6 to 12 months.
Phase 2 happens once most or all permanent teeth have come in, typically between ages 11 and 14. This is when full braces fine-tune the bite and alignment. Kids who completed Phase 1 often have a shorter, simpler Phase 2 because the foundation is already in place. Not every child needs two phases, and Dr. Seth will only recommend it when it genuinely benefits your kiddo.
The Kids Braces Process at Senestraro Family Orthodontics
We make getting braces straightforward for Portland families. Here’s what to expect:
Step 1: Free Consult
Your child’s first visit includes a thorough exam and digital scans using our iTero scanner. No goopy impressions needed. Dr. Seth reviews everything with you and answers all your questions.
Step 2: Custom Care Plan
Based on the evaluation, we create a plan built around your child. This might include Phase 1 care (early intervention), Phase 2 braces, or a single-phase approach. We walk through the timeline, costs, and what to expect.
Step 3: Braces Placement
The placement visit typically takes 60 to 90 minutes. Our team makes sure your child feels comfortable throughout. We’ll go over care instructions and what foods to avoid.
Step 4: Adjustment Visits
Your child returns every 4 to 8 weeks for adjustments. These quick visits keep care on track. Many families schedule them after school or during lunch breaks.
Step 5: Braces Off and Retainers
When care is complete, we remove the braces and fit your child with retainers. Wearing retainers as directed keeps that new smile in place.
Most kids wear braces for 12 to 24 months, though every case is different.
How to Know If Your Child Needs Braces
Your child may need braces if they show signs of crowding, bite misalignment, or functional concerns like difficulty chewing or speech issues. The earlier these signs are spotted, the easier they tend to be to correct. Here are some common indicators to look out for at home.
Teeth concerns:
- Crowded or misaligned teeth
- Teeth that don’t come together properly
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Gaps between teeth
Watch closely for the following bite issues:
- Overbite (top teeth stick out over bottom teeth)
- Underbite (bottom teeth in front of top teeth)
- Crossbite (upper and lower teeth don’t align)
- Open bite (teeth don’t touch when mouth is closed)
You may also notice some functional concerns:
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing
- Thumb sucking past age 5
- Snoring or sleep issues
- Speech difficulties
The AAO recommends that every child see an orthodontist by age 7. At this age, enough permanent teeth have emerged for us to spot developing issues. Some kids benefit from early Phase 1 care. Others do better waiting until more permanent teeth come in. Our team will help you decide what makes sense for your child.
Why Portland Families Choose Senestraro Family Orthodontics
Families throughout Portland, OR trust us with their childrenโs smiles for good reasons. Weโre not your typical practice, and our approach reflects that every day.
Expert care from experienced specialists. Dr. Seth Senestraro, DDS and Zulma Rey bring specialized training in orthodontics. As active members of the American Association of Orthodontists, they stay current with the latest techniques and research.
A practice built for families. Our team creates a fun, welcoming environment where kids actually enjoy their visits. We treat every patient like family, because we love to serve smiles.
Modern tools for better smiles. Our iTero digital scanner means no uncomfortable impressions. Advanced imaging helps us plan care precisely, and unleashing the power of tech keeps every visit efficient.
Affordable payment options. We work with most insurance plans and offer flexible financing. Our payment calculator helps families budget for care with low monthly payments.
Convenient locations. With offices in Portland, Sherwood, Wilsonville, and Tualatin, weโre never far from home. Many families from Sherwood and Wilsonville also visit our Portland office for added scheduling flexibility.
Call us at (503) 228-1945 to learn more or book online anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kids Braces
At what age should my child get braces?
The AAO recommends an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Care timing varies based on each child’s development. Some kids start Phase 1 care around age 7 to 9. Others begin full braces between ages 9 and 14 once more permanent teeth have emerged. Dr. Seth will recommend the best timing for your child.
How much do braces for kids cost in Portland?
Kids braces pricing in Portland varies by case complexity and length of care. Senestraro Family Orthodontics offers affordable payment options, low monthly payments, and works with most insurance plans. We provide a clear breakdown at your free consult so there are no surprises, and our payment calculator makes it easy to plan ahead.
How long do kids wear braces?
Most children wear braces for 12 to 24 months. Length depends on the specific issues being corrected and how well your child follows care instructions. We give you a personalized timeline during your consult.
Do braces hurt?
Kids typically feel mild soreness for a few days after braces are placed and after adjustment visits. This is manageable with over-the-counter relief and soft foods. Most children adjust quickly and report that braces are easier than they expected.
Does insurance cover children’s braces?
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits for children. Coverage amounts vary by plan. Our team verifies your benefits and helps you understand what’s covered before care begins.
Can my child play sports or instruments with braces?
Yes! Kids can stay active with braces. We recommend wearing a mouthguard during sports to protect teeth and braces. Most children adapt to playing instruments within a few weeks. Band and orchestra students do just fine.
Schedule Your Child’s Free Braces Consult in Portland
Ready to help your child get started on a healthier smile? Senestraro Family Orthodontics offers free consults for Portland families. During this visit, you’ll meet our team, get digital scans, and receive a personalized care recommendation.
No obligation. Just expert guidance from orthodontists who genuinely care about your child’s smile. Ortho is for everyone (even sasquatches…), and that includes your kiddo. Sit back, relax & get started!
Book your free consult today:
- Request Free Consult
- Call:
- Virtual consult options available for busy families
Our offices in Portland, Sherwood, Wilsonville, and Tualatin welcome new patients. We can’t wait to meet your family and help your child get started on the path to a healthier, more confident smile.