What Are Braces for Kids?
Braces for kids in Tualatin, OR are orthodontic appliances made of brackets and wires that gradually straighten teeth and align bites over time. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7, when enough permanent teeth have emerged to spot developing issues like crowding, spacing, or bite concerns.
At Senestraro Family Ortho, we offer several types of braces for children: traditional metal braces, ceramic braces that blend with teeth, and clear aligners for qualifying cases. Your childโs care may fall into one of two phases. Phase 1 (early interceptive care) addresses jaw growth and severe crowding in younger children, typically ages 7-10. Phase 2 (full care) happens once most permanent teeth have come in, usually between ages 11-14.
Treatment length varies based on your child’s specific needs. Most kids wear braces for 12-24 months, though some cases wrap up sooner while others take a bit longer. Our orthodontists tailor each plan to your child’s smile goals and growth patterns, so no two care plans look exactly alike.
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Care for Children
Early orthodontic care gives your child advantages that simply aren’t possible once the jaw stops growing. Here’s why Tualatin families choose to get started sooner rather than later. Braces for kids in Tualatin typically deliver the best results when timing aligns with natural growth windows, and that’s where early evaluation pays off.
Guides jaw development. While your childโs jaw is still forming, braces can correct bite issues like overbites, underbites, and crossbites more effectively. This window closes as kids reach their mid-teens.
Room for permanent teeth. Early care can gently expand the palate and create space for adult teeth to come in properly. This often means a simpler path forward as more permanent teeth emerge.
Daily function gets a real boost, too. Properly aligned teeth and jaws make chewing, speaking, and even breathing easier. Many parents report their child’s speech improves after orthodontic care.
Confidence during school years. A straighter smile helps kids feel better about themselves during those formative elementary and middle school years. That confidence carries into social situations, class participation, and photos.
Prevents bigger issues. Addressing things early can stop more complex orthodontic work down the road. Some children who finish Phase 1 care donโt need Phase 2 at all, while others need shorter, simpler care later on.
The Kids Braces Process at Senestraro Family Orthodontics
Getting braces for your child at Senestraro Family Ortho follows a clear, straightforward path. Here’s what to expect:
Step 1: Free Consult
Your child’s first visit includes digital X-rays, photographs, and scans using our iTero digital scanner. No goopy impressions needed. Our team evaluates your child’s teeth, bite, and jaw development to determine if care is needed now or later.
Step 2: Custom Treatment Plan
We sit down with you and your child to review findings and discuss options. You’ll see exactly what we recommend, why we recommend it, and how long care should take. We answer every question before moving forward.
Step 3: Braces Placement
The visit to put braces on typically takes 60-90 minutes. Our orthodontists clean each tooth, apply a special adhesive, position each bracket carefully, and thread the archwire through. Your child may feel some pressure during the visit, but no needles or drilling are involved. We walk them through proper brushing techniques and what to expect over the next few days.
Step 4: Regular Adjustment Visits
Your child returns every 6-8 weeks for adjustments. These quick visits keep care progressing on schedule. Our team makes each visit fun and comfortable.
Step 5: Braces Removal
The big day arrives when braces come off. We take new records, fit your child for retainers, and celebrate their new smile together.
Step 6: Retention Phase
Retainers keep teeth in their new positions while bone stabilizes. We monitor your child’s smile with periodic check-ups to make sure the smile lasts.
Is Your Child a Candidate for Braces?
Not sure if your child needs braces? Watch for these common signs:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth that twist or stack together
- Noticeable gaps between teeth
- Bite issues where upper and lower teeth donโt meet properly
- Difficulty chewing or complaints about biting food
- Mouth breathing or snoring during sleep
- Thumb sucking that continues past age 5
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
The ideal age for an orthodontic evaluation is between 7 and 9 years old. At this point, our orthodontists can spot developing issues and determine the best timing for care.
Phase 1 candidates typically have jaw growth concerns or severe crowding that benefits from early intervention. Care usually starts between ages 7-10.
Phase 2 candidates have most of their permanent teeth and are ready for full braces. This phase typically begins between ages 11-14.
A free consult at Senestraro Family Ortho determines exactly what your child needs and when. Some kids need care right away. Others benefit from monitoring until the timing is right. We’ll give you honest guidance either way, with no pressure to start before your child is ready. Families come to us from across the Portland metro, including Tualatin, Tigard, Sherwood, Wilsonville, and Lake Oswego.
Why Tualatin Families Choose Senestraro Family Orthodontics
Families throughout Tualatin trust Senestraro Family Ortho for their children’s orthodontic care. Here’s what sets us apart:
Board-certified expertise. Dr. Seth Senestraro is an ABO (American Board of Orthodontics) certified orthodontist and member of the AAO (American Association of Orthodontists). Alongside Dr. Seth, Zulma Rey rounds out our orthodontic team, bringing extra experience and a warm chairside manner to every visit with your child.
A practice built for families. weโre not your typical practice. Our office creates a fun, welcoming environment where kids actually look forward to visits. We treat every patient like family because thatโs who we are.
Clear, affordable pricing. No surprises here. We explain pricing upfront and offer affordable payment options that work for your budget. Our payment calculator helps you plan before care starts.
Advanced digital tools. Our iTero digital scanners mean no messy impressions for your child. Digital records allow precise care planning and faster smiles.
Local families have shared positive reviews about their experiences, and parents appreciate our communication while kids enjoy their visits.
Convenient Tualatin location. We serve families from Tualatin, Tigard, Sherwood, Lake Oswego, and surrounding communities, with sister offices in Portland, Sherwood, and Wilsonville. Easy access means fewer missed school days and simpler scheduling.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kids Braces
How much do braces for kids cost in Tualatin?
Braces pricing varies based on case complexity and length. At Senestraro Family Ortho, we provide detailed pricing information during your free consult. We offer affordable payment options with low monthly payments, and many families find braces more affordable than expected. Our team also helps verify your insurance benefits and walks you through any out-of-pocket figures before you commit, so there’s no guesswork along the way.
At what age should my child get braces?
The AAO recommends an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This doesn’t mean care starts that early for everyone. Some children begin Phase 1 care between ages 7-10, while others wait until ages 11-14 for full braces. Your free consult determines the ideal timing for your child.
Do braces hurt children?
Getting braces placed isn’t painful. Your child may feel pressure during the visit and some soreness for a few days afterward as teeth begin moving. Over-the-counter relief and soft foods help during adjustment periods. Most kids adapt quickly and report minimal discomfort after the first week.
How long will my child need to wear braces?
Most children wear braces for 12-24 months, though care length depends on the complexity of their case. Phase 1 care typically lasts 9-18 months. During your consult, we’ll provide a realistic timeline based on your child’s specific needs.
Does insurance cover children’s braces?
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits for children. Coverage varies by plan, so we verify your benefits before care begins. Our team helps you understand what’s covered, submits claims on your behalf, and explains affordable payment options for any remaining balance. We work hard to make orthodontic care accessible regardless of insurance situation.
What foods can’t kids eat with braces?
Children with braces should avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods that can damage brackets or wires. This includes popcorn, hard candy, caramels, gum, ice, and whole apples or carrots (cut them into pieces instead). We provide a complete list and helpful tips at the braces placement visit.
Schedule Your Child’s Free Braces Consult in Tualatin
Ready to unleash your smile for your child? Senestraro Family Ortho offers free, no-obligation consults for new patients. We’ll evaluate your child’s teeth and bite, answer your questions, and explain your options with no pressure.
Can’t make it in person? Virtual consults are available for busy families. We often have same-week visits open, so your child won’t wait long to get started.
Our practice serves families throughout the Portland metro area from our offices in Portland, Sherwood, Wilsonville, and the surrounding Tualatin service area. Whether you’re nearby or across town, we make orthodontic care accessible and convenient for parents juggling busy school schedules.
Request your free consult today. Call our office at (503) here-to-help or book online at senestrarofamilyortho.com/lp/free-consult to reserve your childโs visit. We canโt wait to meet your family.