About 1 in 5 kids needs orthodontic treatment before all of their adult teeth come in. We always recommend coming in for your first consultation to evaluate if your child has any orthodontic needs around age 7 or 8.

As with anything, there are pros and cons to each treatment approach. Clear aligner trays are easy-to-use by even the smallest children. They’re lightweight, comfortable to wear compared to metal brackets, and they offer a flexibility in the treatment process that allows for less pain and mouth discomfort. Because they can be removed for eating and brushing, they also ensure much better hygiene during treatment! The only catch is that they need to be worn well. We’ve found that the vast majority of kids are excellent at wearing their trays. That said, there are always exceptions, and sometimes the more traditional expander and braces will be right for your child.

Phase 1 typically costs between $3485 and $4385. We offer in-house, interest free financing so you can spread the costs over the course of your child’s treatment time. We are also in-network with all PPO insurance plans and accept all FSA/HSA cards. Many patients pay as little as $168/month for their orthodontic care.

Absolutely. More and more data is coming out showing the significant impact healthy breathing through the nose has on a child’s growth and development. If you notice that your child tends to breathe through their mouth, it’s important to evaluate possible treatment options. Often, we collaborate with other specialists to create a comprehensive plan to ensure your child is breathing properly throughout their developmental years.

Orthodontics often plays a critical role in this process, as expansion of the palate can create more space for the tongue and thereby facilitate easier breathing.

There are certainly instances where traditional braces and expanders may be favored over Invisalign. For example, if you feel your child will not be compliant with wearing aligners, we may consider using traditional expanders/braces instead. They are certainly effective and can be navigated well with the right instructions and care. Dr. McComb and his team will help you and your child decide which option is best!