Braces for Kids & Early Orthodontic Treatment in the Upstate
Braces for Kids
Early Orthodontic Treatment in The Upstate
Braces for Kids & Early Orthodontic Treatment in the Upstate
Braces for Kids
Personalized Orthodontics for Kids in The Upstate
Little smiles deserve thoughtful care and a warm welcome!
At Nth Degree Orthodontics, we offer braces for kids and personalized early orthodontic treatment for families across Spartanburg, Duncan, Gaffney, Union, and Woodruff.
Whether it’s time for treatment or simply time to grow, we’ll help you feel confident about the next step.
When Should My Child First See an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a child’s first orthodontic checkup when a concern is first noticed, and no later than age 7.
At this age, most children have a mix of baby and permanent teeth. That gives an orthodontist the opportunity to evaluate how their teeth are coming in, how their bite fits together, and how their jaws are developing.
An early checkup doesn’t automatically mean early treatment. It helps us determine whether your child would benefit from care now, monitoring as they grow, or treatment later.
Already past age 7? Come on in. We’re happy to help you get started.
Does My Child Need Early Orthodontic Treatment?
Some developing bite and jaw problems benefit from treatment while a child is still growing. Others can wait until more permanent teeth come in.
Our orthodontists, Dr. Eric Nease, Dr. Alex Thomas, and Dr. Jay Patrick, evaluate your child’s teeth, bite, growth, and individual needs before recommending a plan.
Early orthodontic treatment may help address concerns such as:
- A narrow upper jaw or certain crossbites.
- Crowding or limited space for developing permanent teeth.
- Upper front teeth that protrude and may be more vulnerable to injury.
- Certain bite problems or jaw shifts.
- Oral habits that are affecting tooth positions or bite development.
We’ll explain what we see, what treatment could accomplish, and whether there’s a reason to act now. Your questions are always welcome.
Not Ready for Treatment? Welcome to the Kid’s Club!
Every little smile grows at its own pace!
If your child isn’t ready for treatment, we’d love to welcome them to our complimentary Nth Degree Kid’s Club.
We’ll check in every six months to monitor their teeth and jaw development, keep you informed, and help you understand when treatment may be appropriate.
It’s a chance for your kiddo to get comfortable with our team while you stay one step ahead of their growing smile.
Signs It’s Time for a Children’s Orthodontic Evaluation
You don’t have to know whether your child needs braces before scheduling a visit. That’s what we’re here to help you figure out.
Consider an evaluation if you notice:
- Crowded, overlapping, or unusually spaced teeth.
- Upper and lower teeth that don’t meet comfortably.
- A jaw that shifts when your child bites.
- Difficulty biting or chewing.
- Baby teeth lost unusually early or late.
- Persistent thumb or finger sucking.
- Front teeth that stick out noticeably.
- Mention persistent mouth breathing, snoring, or other sleep concerns, too.
These symptoms don’t automatically mean your child needs orthodontic treatment.
We can assess their teeth and jaw development and help coordinate with their pediatrician, ENT, or sleep specialist when appropriate.
Orthodontic treatment isn’t a guaranteed solution for breathing or sleep problems.
What Is Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment?
Phase 1 is early orthodontic treatment that addresses a specific developing concern while a child is still growing and some baby teeth remain.
Depending on your child’s needs, the goal may be to improve a crossbite, address a narrow upper jaw, manage space, or guide aspects of bite development.
Phase 1 doesn’t always involve braces, and not every child needs two phases of orthodontic treatment. We’ll explain why an early phase is (or isn’t) recommended for your child.
What Happens After Phase 1?
After early treatment, your child may have a period of observation while more permanent teeth come in.
Some children later need Phase 2 treatment with braces or clear aligners to align the permanent teeth and finish correcting the bite.
Your orthodontist will explain what future care may be needed, including the anticipated timing and costs.
Braces, Clear Aligners & Appliances for Kids
The right treatment depends on the concern we’re addressing, your child’s development, and what they can comfortably manage day to day.
Palatal Expanders & Other Orthodontic Appliances
A palatal expander may be recommended when the upper jaw is too narrow. Other appliances can help manage space or address specific bite concerns.
We’ll show you and your child how their appliance works, how to care for it, and what to expect along the way.
Damon® Braces for Kids
Damon self-ligating braces use built-in clips to hold the archwire rather than elastic ties around each bracket.
Braces may be part of an early treatment plan or a later phase of comprehensive care.
Spark™ Junior Clear Aligners
Spark Junior clear aligners are another option for suitable growing smiles.
These removable trays require consistent wear and care, so we’ll consider your child’s treatment needs and readiness before recommending them.
A First Visit That Helps Everyone Feel at Home
A new experience can bring a few butterflies!
We’ll take time to help your family settle in, get to know your child, and answer your questions.
At your child’s complimentary consultation, we’ll:
- Talk about your concerns and their dental history.
- Examine their teeth, bite, and jaw development.
- Explain any recommended diagnostic records.
- Review costs and payment options if treatment is recommended.
- Discuss whether treatment or growth monitoring makes sense.
Your child is part of the conversation, too. We’ll explain things in kid-friendly terms and help them feel comfortable asking questions.
How Much Do Braces for Kids Cost?
The cost of braces for kids depends on the treatment needed, the length of care, and any orthodontic insurance benefits.
An early phase of treatment may have a different fee from comprehensive braces or clear aligner treatment.
At your consultation, we’ll explain your child’s recommended care, what’s included, and the associated costs. If a later treatment phase is anticipated, we’ll discuss that, too.
We offer flexible payment plans with 0% interest in-house financing and will work with you to create a payment plan that meets your needs.
We also accept most insurance plans, help with claims, and offer family member and pay-in-full discounts.
FAQs About Orthodontics for Kids
What is the best age to get braces?
There isn’t one best age for every child. The first orthodontic checkup is recommended by age 7, but treatment begins when your child’s development and needs make it appropriate.
Some children benefit from early care; others are monitored until more permanent teeth have erupted.
Can my child get braces while they still have baby teeth?
Yes. Some children benefit from braces or another orthodontic appliance while they have both baby and permanent teeth.
Having baby teeth doesn’t automatically mean treatment should begin—or that it needs to wait.
Does every child with crowded teeth need a palatal expander?
No. Crowding can have different causes. Your orthodontist will evaluate jaw width, tooth positions, and the developing bite to determine whether expansion, another approach, or monitoring is appropriate.
Will early orthodontic treatment prevent braces later?
Not necessarily. Early treatment addresses specific concerns, and some children still need braces or clear aligners as more permanent teeth come in.
We’ll help you understand what each stage is intended to accomplish.
How long does early orthodontic treatment take?
The timeline depends on the problem being treated, the appliance used, your child’s growth, and their response to treatment.
We’ll give you an individual estimate and explain any observation or retention period that follows.
Do I need a dentist’s referral to see a kids’ orthodontist?
No referral is needed. You’re welcome to schedule your child’s complimentary consultation directly, whether your dentist has raised a concern or you simply want to check on their growing smile.
Does insurance cover braces for kids?
Some dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits, but coverage and eligibility vary.
Our team will review your benefits, explain the estimated contribution toward treatment, and help with insurance paperwork.
What if my child is nervous about the orthodontist?
Let us know. We’ll take time to explain what’s happening, welcome their questions, and help them become familiar with our team.
The first visit is an opportunity to get comfortable and learn about their smile.
Find Your Child’s Orthodontist in the Upstate
We’d love to help your family feel at home at Nth Degree Orthodontics.
Visit us for children’s orthodontics and braces for kids at any of our six Upstate South Carolina offices in East Spartanburg, West Spartanburg, Duncan, Gaffney, Union, and Woodruff.
Bring your questions, bring your kiddo, and let’s find the right next step together.