At iSmile Orthodontics, we believe that a confident, healthy smile starts early. Our experienced team offers gentle, personalized care for growing smiles—helping children across New York City feel comfortable and cared for at every step. Whether your child needs early observation or active treatment, we’re here to make orthodontic care easy, fun, and effective.
Why Early Orthodontic Care Matters
Early orthodontic care can catch and correct problems before they become more serious. Treating issues while your child’s mouth and jaw are still developing gives us more flexibility and can often reduce or eliminate the need for major treatment later on.
By starting early, we can:
- Guide jaw growth and facial development
- Create space for incoming permanent teeth
- Address harmful oral habits (like thumb sucking)
- Improve appearance and boost confidence
- Prevent more complex dental issues in the future
Our team specializes in early assessments and Phase 1 treatment for young children, making us a leading orthodontist for kids in NYC.
Common Orthodontic Issues in Children
Every child’s smile is unique, but some orthodontic problems are more common during early development. These include:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Crossbites, underbites, and overbites
- Open bites caused by thumb sucking or tongue thrusting
- Jaw misalignment or facial asymmetry
- Protruding front teeth (buck teeth)
Early evaluation allows us to identify these issues and create a treatment plan tailored to your child’s needs and stage of development.
When Should Your Child See an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic check-up by age 7. At this age, your child has a mix of baby and permanent teeth, and we can spot any early signs of bite or alignment problems—even if braces aren’t needed yet.
Don’t wait for all the adult teeth to come in. An early visit helps us monitor development and start treatment at the ideal time.
Best Treatment Options for Kids in NYC
At iSmile Orthodontics, we offer a full range of treatment options designed for children. Each plan is customized based on your child’s age, dental growth, and unique smile goals.
Traditional Braces
Metal and Clear braces remain a reliable and highly effective option for children. They can treat even complex issues and have come a long way in terms of comfort and design. Today’s braces are smaller, more comfortable, and often more fun—with colorful bands kids can customize at every visit!
Invisalign
For some kids, Invisalign First may be a great alternative to braces. These clear, removable aligners are designed for growing mouths and offer a more discreet, flexible treatment experience. Invisalign may be ideal for mild to moderate alignment concerns and is best suited for responsible children who can wear them consistently.
Our orthodontists will help determine which option is right for your child during a complimentary consultation.
Life with Braces or Invisalign
Orthodontic treatment doesn’t have to slow your child down. Whether they choose braces or Invisalign, we provide the tools and support to make life easier throughout their smile journey.
- With braces — Kids should avoid sticky and hard foods, but brushing is easy with a little practice. Regular check-ins keep everything on track.
- With Invisalign — Aligners can be removed for meals, brushing, and sports. We provide wear-time trackers and tips to help kids stay on schedule.
Whichever path they’re on, we’re here to support your child every step of the way—with expert care, fun visits, and a welcoming environment.
Why Choose iSmile Orthodontics?
Choosing an orthodontist for your child is a big decision—and we take that responsibility seriously. At iSmile Orthodontics, families across NYC trust us for:
- Board-certified orthodontists with pediatric expertise
- Kid-friendly environment that makes visits enjoyable
- Flexible scheduling and easy appointment options
- Advanced technology for fast, accurate treatment
- Customized care tailored to your child’s comfort and needs
We don’t just straighten teeth—we build confidence and lasting relationships. It’s care you can feel good about from a team your child will love.
Kids Orthodontics FAQs For NYC Residents
Q: Is age 7 really early enough for an orthodontist visit?
Yes! Early evaluations allow us to monitor growth and catch potential problems before they become serious—sometimes even preventing braces altogether.
Q: Does my child need braces if they still have baby teeth?
Not always. But if early treatment is needed, we may recommend Phase 1 orthodontics to guide proper growth and development.
Q: Are braces painful for kids?
Braces may cause mild discomfort during adjustments, but most kids adapt quickly. We provide tips to manage soreness and keep things comfortable.
Q: Can my child still play sports or instruments with braces?
Absolutely. We offer mouthguards for sports and guidance for musicians to ensure a smooth transition.
Q: Is Invisalign really an option for kids?
Yes—Invisalign First is designed for growing children and can be very effective when used as directed. We’ll help determine if your child is a good candidate.