Moline 309-762-8838
Geneseo 309-944-3360
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Moline: 309-762-8838
Geneseo: 309-944-3360

Orthodontics for Kids

Building Healthy Smiles from the Start

Gentle, fun, and effective orthodontic care designed specifically for children ages 7-10. Early intervention creates the foundation for a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles.

Schedule Your Child's First Visit

The Perfect Age for Orthodontic Care

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, children have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, making it the ideal time to spot potential problems and guide healthy development.

Early orthodontic care doesn’t always mean immediate treatment. Instead, it’s about monitoring your child’s growth and intervening at precisely the right time to achieve the best possible results.

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Guides proper jaw growth and development
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Creates space for incoming permanent teeth
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Corrects harmful habits like thumb sucking
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Improves facial symmetry and profile
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Builds confidence during crucial developmental years

Common Issues We Treat in Children

Early detection and treatment of these common childhood orthodontic issues can prevent more complex problems later.

Crowding

When there isn’t enough space for permanent teeth to emerge properly

Spacing Issues

Gaps between teeth that may affect function and appearance

Crossbites

When upper teeth bite inside lower teeth, affecting jaw development

Overbites

When upper front teeth stick out too far over lower teeth

Underbites

When lower teeth protrude past upper teeth

Harmful Habits

Thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or mouth breathing patterns

Kid-Friendly Treatment Options

We offer gentle, effective treatments designed specifically for children’s growing smiles and active lifestyles.

Invisalign First

Clear Aligners for Mixed Dentition

Revolutionary clear aligners designed specifically for children with both baby and permanent teeth. Nearly invisible and comfortable for active kids.

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Virtually invisible treatment
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Removable for eating and sports
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Comfortable with no wires or brackets
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Designed for growing smiles

Palatal Expanders

Gentle Jaw Expansion

Gentle appliances that gradually widen the upper jaw to create space for permanent teeth and improve breathing.

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Creates space for crowded teeth
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Improves airway and breathing
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Corrects crossbites naturally
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Works with natural growth patterns

Space Maintainers

Holding Space for Permanent Teeth

Custom appliances that hold space when baby teeth are lost early, ensuring permanent teeth have room to emerge properly.

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Prevents teeth from shifting
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Maintains proper spacing
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Reduces need for future extractions
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Comfortable and discrete

Making Orthodontics Fun for Kids

We believe orthodontic care should be a positive, fun experience that children look forward to.

Kid-Friendly Environment

Welcoming, colorful spaces designed to make children feel comfortable and excited about their visits

Rewards & Recognition

Fun reward systems to celebrate progress and encourage good oral hygiene habits

Gentle Approach

Patient, caring treatment that builds trust and confidence with every visit

Family Involvement

We work closely with parents to ensure the best care and support at home

Questions Parents Ask

Get answers to the most common questions about orthodontic care for children.

When should my child first see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This doesn’t mean treatment will start immediately, but it allows us to monitor development and identify the optimal time for intervention if needed.

Will my child need braces later if they have early treatment?

Early treatment creates a healthy foundation, but some children may need additional treatment when all permanent teeth have emerged. However, early intervention often reduces the complexity and duration of any future treatment needed.

How do I prepare my child for their first orthodontic visit?

Explain that the orthodontist is a special dentist who helps make smiles healthy and beautiful. Emphasize that the first visit is just to look at their teeth and take pictures. Let them know it won’t hurt and that they’ll learn about keeping their teeth healthy.

When should my child first see an orthodontist?

Treatment costs vary depending on your child’s specific needs. We offer flexible payment plans and work with most insurance providers. Early treatment is often more cost-effective than waiting, as it can prevent more complex issues from developing.

Can my child still play sports during treatment?

Absolutely! We encourage children to stay active. For contact sports, we’ll provide a protective mouthguard. Many treatments like Invisalign First can be removed during sports activities, making participation even easier.

Give Your Child the Gift of a Healthy Smile

Early orthodontic care sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles. Schedule your child’s first evaluation today.

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