Pediatric Orthodontist Near Me – Expert Early Orthodontic Care for Kids
Find the Best Pediatric Orthodontist Near You for a Healthy, Beautiful Smile
When it comes to your child’s dental health, early intervention with a pediatric orthodontist can set the foundation for a lifetime of confident smiles. At Elate Orthodontics, we specialize in early orthodontic treatment to ensure your child’s teeth and jaw develop properly, preventing complex issues later in life.
📍 Convenient locations in:
✅ Frisco, TX
✅ The Colony, TX
✅ Prosper, TX
What Is Pediatric Orthodontics?
Pediatric orthodontics focuses on early orthodontic treatment (Phase 1) for children to address bite problems, misalignment, crowding, and other dental concerns before all permanent teeth have erupted. The goal is to guide jaw development and create space for incoming adult teeth, minimizing the need for extensive orthodontic treatment later.
Does My Child Need Early Orthodontic Treatment?
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. While not every child needs treatment at this age, early intervention can help prevent more severe issues.
🚨 Signs Your Child May Need Early Orthodontic Treatment:
✔ Overcrowded or overlapping teeth
✔ Difficulty chewing or biting
✔ Prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use
✔ Speech difficulties
✔ Early or late loss of baby teeth
✔ A misaligned bite (overbite, underbite, or crossbite)
Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment for Kids
Early orthodontic treatment (Phase 1) is designed for children between ages 6-10 who have developing teeth and jaws. The goal is to create a healthy environment for permanent teeth to erupt properly.
🦷 Common Phase 1 Treatments Include:
✔ Palate Expanders – Widen the upper jaw to correct narrow arches and breathing issues
✔ Space Maintainers – Hold space for permanent teeth if baby teeth are lost early
✔ Partial Braces or Aligners – Help guide the position of growing teeth
✔ Habit Appliances – Stop thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting, which can impact jaw growth
Phase 2 Orthodontic Treatment: Full Braces or Aligners
After Phase 1, many children won’t need further treatment, but some may require Phase 2 orthodontics. This occurs when most or all of the permanent teeth have erupted (ages 11-14) and focuses on perfecting alignment and bite correction with braces or clear aligners.
Why Choose Elate Orthodontics for Your Child’s Orthodontic Care?
✔ Experienced Pediatric Orthodontists – Specialists in treating growing smiles
✔ Gentle, Kid-Friendly Approach – Creating a comfortable, stress-free experience
✔ Advanced Technology – The latest in braces, clear aligners, and expanders
✔ Affordable Treatment Plans – Flexible financing and insurance options
The Role of Palate Expanders in Early Orthodontic Treatment
For some children, a narrow upper jaw can lead to crowding, crossbites, and breathing issues. A palate expander is a common Phase 1 orthodontic appliance used to gradually widen the upper jaw, creating space for permanent teeth and improving overall bite alignment. Palate expanders are especially beneficial for children whose jaw growth is still developing, making early intervention highly effective.
At Elate Orthodontics, we personalize every treatment plan to ensure the best results for your child’s smile. Whether they need a palate expander, traditional braces, or clear aligners, our experienced team will guide you through every step.
Book Your Child’s Orthodontic Consultation Today!
Early orthodontic care can make a huge difference in your child’s oral health. Schedule a consultation with Elate Orthodontics today to find out if your child is a candidate for early orthodontic treatment!
📍 Visit us at:
✅ Frisco
✅ The Colony
✅ Prosper
✅ Early Orthodontics FAQ
What does phase 1 mean in orthodontics?
Phase 1 orthodontics refers to early treatment performed on children typically between ages 6 to 10, before all permanent teeth have erupted. It focuses on guiding jaw growth and creating space for permanent teeth.
Is Phase 1 braces worth it?
Yes — for kids with bite issues, crowding, or jaw alignment problems, Phase 1 can prevent more serious problems later. It may reduce the need for extractions or surgery in Phase 2.
Do you get a retainer after phase 1 braces?
Yes, most kids wear a retainer or space maintainer after Phase 1 treatment to keep teeth from shifting while permanent teeth continue to come in.
What is the difference between Phase 1 and Phase 2 dental treatment?
Phase 1 is early interceptive care before all permanent teeth come in. Phase 2 happens in the teen years and focuses on perfecting the bite and alignment with braces or aligners.
How much does Phase 1 orthodontics cost?
Phase 1 treatment usually ranges from $2,000 to $4,000 depending on case complexity. At Elate Orthodontics, we offer flexible monthly plans and accept most PPO insurance.
What is Phase 1 and Phase 2?
It’s a two-phase orthodontic approach. Phase 1 guides growth early; Phase 2 straightens permanent teeth in adolescence for long-term results.
Is phase 1 better than phase 2?
Not better — just different. Phase 1 is ideal for correcting growth or spacing problems early, while Phase 2 finishes the job once all adult teeth are in.
What is the difference between Phase I and Phase II?
Phase I focuses on jaw development and preventing crowding; Phase II uses braces or aligners to fine-tune bite and alignment.
What is the difference between 1 and 2 phase?
The two-phase approach treats problems at different stages. Phase 1 = early jaw/spacing correction; Phase 2 = teen alignment correction.
What is the difference between one phase and two-phase orthodontic treatment?
One-phase treats everything in one stage (usually in teens). Two-phase starts early, treats developmental issues, and finishes later — often more effectively.
What are early orthodontics?
Early orthodontics are treatments that begin before age 10 to guide jaw growth, correct bite issues, and reduce the need for major treatment later.
What is the earliest age to see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends age 7 for your child’s first orthodontic check-up.
What is very early orthodontic treatment?
It refers to treatment before all permanent teeth erupt, usually around ages 6 to 9, often with expanders or partial braces.
How early to start orthodontics?
Children can start orthodontics as early as age 6 or 7, especially for crossbites, crowding, or jaw growth issues.
Is 7 years old too early for braces?
Not at all — age 7 is often ideal for identifying and treating early orthodontic problems.
What age can you get braces for free?
Some insurance or Medicaid plans offer full coverage for kids under 18 if treatment is medically necessary. We offer discounted options for Medicaid families.
What is the cheapest price for braces?
At Elate Orthodontics, our plans start as low as $99/month. Traditional metal braces are usually the most affordable.
How can I get braces if I have no money?
We offer 0% interest financing, low down payments, and discounted pricing for families with Medicaid. Let us help you find an affordable solution.
What’s the youngest you can get braces?
Some children begin limited orthodontic treatment as early as age 6, depending on jaw development or crowding.
Is Invisalign cheaper than braces?
In some cases, yes. But in others, clear braces or metal braces may be more cost-effective. We offer a cost comparison at your consultation.
Does insurance cover braces?
Yes — many PPO dental plans offer partial orthodontic coverage. We accept most insurances and will verify your benefits at your visit.
How much do braces cost for kids?
Kids’ braces typically cost between $3,000 and $5,000 depending on treatment needs. We offer flexible plans and family discounts.
When should kids start seeing orthodontists?
Age 7 is the best time for a first orthodontic evaluation, even if no problems are obvious yet.
What is the best age for children to get orthodontics?
Most kids begin treatment between ages 7 and 14, depending on their growth and development.
What is a child orthodontist called?
Orthodontists are dental specialists trained to treat children and adults. At Elate Orthodontics, we’re experienced in early orthodontic care for kids.
What age is Phase 1 orthodontic treatment?
Phase 1 treatment typically begins between ages 6 and 10, while baby and permanent teeth are both present.
Does my child need Phase 2 braces?
Most kids who have Phase 1 will need Phase 2 later to complete the alignment once all adult teeth have come in.
How much do braces cost for a 7 year old?
Phase 1 treatment (for age 7) usually ranges from $2,000 to $4,000. Our plans make it affordable for all families.
How do people afford braces for their kids?
Through payment plans, insurance, Medicaid discounts, and financing. We’ll help you build a plan that fits your budget.
Can insurance cover braces?
Yes — we work with most insurance plans and will help you understand your orthodontic benefits for your child.
What age is braces free?
Free braces may be available through certain insurance or Medicaid plans for children under age 18, depending on medical necessity.
What to do if you need braces but can’t afford them?
Talk to us! We offer payment plans, low-down-payment options, and discounts to make braces accessible to everyone.
What’s the cheapest you can get braces?
At Elate Orthodontics, plans start around $99/month, and consultations are free.
Is Invisalign cheaper than braces?
Sometimes — especially for simple cases. We’ll compare all options and help you decide what’s most cost-effective.
Will insurance cover Invisalign?
Yes — many insurance plans include coverage for Invisalign and clear aligners, especially for teens. We’ll check your benefits.
What works faster, Invisalign or braces?
It depends on the case. Braces are often faster for complex corrections, while Invisalign is effective for mild to moderate issues.
Has anyone lost a tooth with Invisalign?
It’s extremely rare. If oral hygiene is poor or an existing issue exists, aligners could irritate the gums. We monitor all patients closely to prevent complications.