Choosing the right orthodontic treatment for your child is a big decision. As a parent, you might be wondering: What age do kids usually get braces? How much do braces cost for kids? Can kids get Invisalign instead of braces?
We’re here to help! At Caudill & McNeight Orthodontics, we specialize in orthodontics for kids, helping families in Melbourne/Suntree, Merritt Island and Viera navigate treatment options with confidence.
Whether you’re considering braces or Invisalign for your kiddo, this guide answers the most common questions parents have about their child’s orthodontic care!
What Age Do You Get Braces?
You don’t have to wait until your child is a teenager to visit an orthodontist in Melbourne, Merritt Island or Viera. According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), children should have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7.
At this age, a child’s jaw is still growing, and their mix of baby and permanent teeth allows our orthodontists to spot early alignment issues. The best way to determine when to start treatment is by bringing your kiddo into one of our orthodontic offices for a complimentary consultation at age 6 or 7.
Our doctors have achieved the highest level of Invisalign expertise, and are recognized as top providers in the area! Dr. Caudill, Dr. McNeight and Dr. Naglieri are the go-to Invisalign experts in Brevard County. We’re here to provide a professional opinion, a full orthodontic exam, and a personal consultation to answer all of your questions about your little one’s smile — at no cost!
Can Kids Get Invisalign Instead of Braces?
Yes! Invisalign isn’t just for adults—kids can benefit from the same treatment their siblings and parents use. Invisalign First is designed specifically for growing smiles, working alongside the natural development of their teeth and jaws.
That said, Invisalign treatment requires a level of responsibility. Since aligners are removable, kids must commit to wearing them for 20–22 hours a day for their treatment to be effective. If your child is likely to forget or misplace them, braces might be the better choice!
So, is Invisalign better than braces? The answer depends on your child’s lifestyle and orthodontic needs. We are your partners in creating a beautiful, healthy smile for your child, and we’ll help you weigh the advantages of all of our treatment options.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Get Invisalign?
There’s no exact age requirement for Invisalign, but children can start treatment around age 6 if needed!
Here’s how it works:
- For younger kids (Ages 6–10) – We can intervene in problematic conditions before they progress, and address jaw development and spacing issues while baby teeth are still present. Invisalign First is designed to hold space for permanent teeth to erupt, and prevent neighboring teeth from shifting into these gaps.
- For preteens & teens (Ages 11–17) – Once all adult teeth have erupted, Invisalign can correct alignment issues just like braces!
How Much Do Braces Cost for Kids?
The cost of orthodontics for kids depends on their personalized treatment plan, based on the complexity of their case. On your first visit, we’ll discuss the cost of your kiddo’s treatment, and create a custom financing plan that meets your needs.
Kids’ orthodontic treatment with Caudill & McNeight Orthodontics is more affordable than you may think! Choose from 0% interest in-house financing or Care Credit financing or affordable, monthly payments.
Your dental insurance plans may offer coverage for orthodontic treatment too! We accept most insurance, and we can help you understand your insurance benefits. We’ll do all of the paperwork for you to help you receive the maximum benefit from your plan.
Investing in early orthodontic treatment can prevent costly dental issues down the road, prevent the need for more complex treatment routes (like jaw surgery) to correct progressed conditions, and set the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles!
Is Invisalign Better Than Braces?
One of the most common questions parents ask is “Is Invisalign better than braces?” The truth is, neither is universally “better”—each option has unique benefits depending on your child’s needs, lifestyle, and commitment to wearing aligners throughout the day and night.
Advantages of Braces
Braces are a tried-and-true method for straightening teeth and correcting complex bite issues. They work around the clock since they’re fixed to the teeth, meaning there’s no risk of forgetting to wear them.
- Effective for all cases – We braces, we can correct all conditions – from mild crowding to severe misalignment and bite issues.
- No compliance necessary – Since braces stay in place 24/7, there’s no risk of your kiddo removing them or forgetting to wear them.
- Customizable – Kids can personalize their braces with colorful bands, making treatment a little more fun!
Advantages of Invisalign
Many kids and teens prefer Invisalign, because it’s discreet and doesn’t come with food restrictions.
- Removable for eating & cleaning – Kids can eat all their favorite foods without worrying about breaking a bracket. Their brushing and flossing routine won’t require any changes, too!
- Virtually invisible – Clear aligners are nearly undetectable, making them a popular choice for kids and teens who may not love the look of braces.
- Fewer office visits – Aligners are switched out at home every week, and don’t require ‘tightening’ or adjustments. That means fewer office visits and more time spent with friends!
How Long Does Orthodontic Treatment Take?
Every smile is unique and every orthodontic journey is different, but most treatments fall within these timeframes:
- Braces: 18–24 months
- Invisalign: 18–24 months (depending on aligner wear compliance)
Some children require two-phase orthodontic treatment, where an early phase (ages 7–10) addresses jaw development, followed by a second phase (ages 11–14) for fine-tune alignment.
Which one should your kiddo choose?
The decision between braces and Invisalign depends on your child’s specific needs and preferences. If your child needs major bite corrections or tends to misplace things, braces may be the better option. If they’re committed to wearing their aligners and prefer a more discreet treatment, Invisalign could be a great fit.
If you’re unsure which treatment is best for your little one, a visit to one of our cool, coastal-themed orthodontic offices in Viera, Melbourne/Suntree or Merritt Island can help you decide! We’ll help you weigh the advantages of all of our treatment options, so you and your child can make the right decision for their smile.
Debunking Myths About Orthodontic Treatment for Kids
Let’s debunk some common misconceptions:
- Myth 1: Kids don’t need to see an orthodontist until all their adult teeth come in.
- Fact: Early orthodontic evaluations are recommended by age 7. This allows us to detect and prevent major alignment issues, even with a mixed dentition of baby teeth and adult teeth!
- Myth 2: Invisalign isn’t as effective as braces.
- Fact: Invisalign can correct many of the same alignment issues as braces when worn properly.
- Myth 3: Braces and Invisalign are only needed for cosmetic reasons.
- Fact: While a beautiful smile is a major benefit of orthodontic treatment, it isn’t the only one! A healthy bite with straight teeth is easier to clean, reducing the risk of oral health issues, like gum disease, cavities, and uneven wear.
Book your child’s complimentary consultation today!
Whether you’re considering braces or Invisalign, the key is starting the conversation early. Early orthodontic evaluations help us determine the least invasive treatment route for your child, minimizing discomfort from treatment and reducing treatment time.
At Caudill & McNeight Orthodontics in Brevard County, we’re here to answer all your questions and guide you through every step of your child’s orthodontic journey.
