Getting your child’s smile off to a healthy start matters. Woodland Hills families trust 360 Orthodontics to give their kids the foundation for a lifetime of confident, straight teeth. Our orthodontists specialize in early orthodontic care, using digital 3D scanning and advanced imaging to create treatment plans that work with your child’s natural growth patterns. Because a healthy smile starts early, we focus on catching issues at the right time and treating them with precision.
What Are Braces for Kids? Early Orthodontic Care Explained
Braces for kids are orthodontic appliances designed specifically for children’s developing jaws and teeth, used to guide teeth into proper alignment while the jaw is still forming. Treatment can begin as early as age 7 and addresses issues like crowding, bite problems, and jaw growth irregularities during the years when correction is most effective.
Unlike adult orthodontics, kids’ braces work with natural growth to shape the bite and tooth positioning over time. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that every child have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, your child has enough permanent teeth for an orthodontist to spot potential issues early.
Early detection doesn’t always mean early treatment. Sometimes it simply means monitoring your child’s development until the right time to begin.
Two main phases of treatment exist for children:
Phase 1 (Early Interceptive Treatment): Begins while baby teeth are still present, between ages 7 and 10. This phase addresses jaw growth problems, severe crowding, or bite issues that benefit from early correction.
Phase 2 (Full Treatment): Takes place once most or all permanent teeth have come in, usually during the preteen or teen years. This phase focuses on final alignment and bite correction.
360 Orthodontics offers several options for kids’ braces in Woodland Hills, CA and surrounding areas:
- Metal braces (the tried-and-true option)
- Clear braces for a less noticeable look
- Palatal expanders for narrow jaws
- Space maintainers when baby teeth are lost early
Your child deserves access to excellent orthodontic care right here in Woodland Hills. Our team creates a welcoming environment where kids feel comfortable and parents feel informed.
Benefits of Early Braces for Kids in Woodland Hills
Early orthodontic treatment gives kids in Woodland Hills a head start on long-term oral health. The main benefits include guided jaw growth, easier bite correction during development, lower risk of tooth decay from crowding, improved self-confidence, and potentially shorter treatment time during the teen years. Here’s a closer look at each benefit through the lens of what 360 Orthodontics provides.
Guide jaw growth naturally. When we work with your child’s developing jaw, we can often prevent problems that would require more involved treatment later. In some cases, early intervention can even eliminate the need for tooth extraction or jaw procedures down the road. That alone makes an early evaluation worth it.
Correct bite issues during development. Crossbites, overbites, and underbites are easier to address while your child is still growing. The jaw is more responsive to treatment during childhood, which often means better results in less time.
Lower the risk of tooth decay and gum problems. Crowded or overlapping teeth create hard-to-clean spaces where plaque builds up. Straighter teeth are easier to brush and floss, which helps reduce cavity and gum disease risk. Correcting alignment early protects your child from these issues before they start.
Boost self-confidence. Kids notice their smiles. A straighter smile can help your child feel more confident at school, in activities, and with friends during the years that shape them most. It matters.
Potentially shorten overall treatment time. Addressing issues early sometimes means less time in braces during the teen years. Phase 1 treatment can reduce the complexity and duration of later orthodontic work, according to the AAO. Some children who complete Phase 1 need only minor adjustments later, and a few skip Phase 2 entirely.
Every child is different. Some benefit from early treatment, while others do better waiting. That’s exactly why a professional evaluation matters. Our orthodontists will tell you honestly whether your child needs treatment now or if watching and waiting makes more sense.
The Kids’ Braces Process at 360 Orthodontics in Woodland Hills
We’ve designed our five-step process to be straightforward for parents and comfortable for kids. Here’s what to expect from your first call to the final retainer fitting:
Step 1: Free Consultation
Everything starts with a complimentary consultation at our office. Digital X-rays and 3D scans give us a complete picture of your child’s teeth, jaw, and facial structure. These digital scans are fast, comfortable, and far more accurate than old-fashioned mold impressions. No messy trays needed. Your child’s orthodontist will examine the images with you and answer all your questions right then and there.
Step 2: Custom Treatment Plan
If treatment is recommended, the 360 Orthodontics team creates a plan based on your child’s specific needs and growth stage. We’ll explain exactly what we recommend, why it’s the best approach, and how long treatment should take. You’ll also get a clear breakdown of transparent pricing and easy payment plans, so every cost is spelled out upfront.
Step 3: Braces Placement
The placement appointment is gentle and kid-friendly. Most children are surprised at how easy it is. We take our time, explain each step to both parent and child, and make sure everyone feels comfortable throughout the process. The whole appointment runs about 60 to 90 minutes. That’s it.
Step 4: Regular Adjustment Visits
Every 4 to 8 weeks, your child comes in for adjustments. These appointments are quick, running about 15 to 30 minutes. Our team monitors progress closely and makes sure everything is moving according to plan. Kids often tell us these visits are easier than they expected, and parents appreciate the short wait times.
Step 5: Braces Removal and Retention
The big day. When treatment is complete, we remove the braces and fit your child with a retainer. Retainers keep teeth in their new positions while the bone stabilizes. Clear instructions on retainer wear come home with you, and we schedule follow-up visits to make sure that great smile stays put.
Is Your Child a Candidate for Braces?
Children between ages 7 and 14 who show signs of crowding, bite problems, or irregular tooth loss are common candidates for braces. An early evaluation can identify whether treatment is needed now or if monitoring makes more sense.
Common signs your child may need braces include:
- Crowding: Teeth that overlap, twist, or don’t have enough room
- Gaps: Noticeable spaces between teeth
- Bite problems: Upper and lower teeth that don’t meet properly
- Trouble chewing: Issues biting into food or chewing thoroughly
- Mouth breathing: Breathing through the mouth instead of the nose
- Early or late loss of baby teeth: Can signal alignment issues developing
- Thumb sucking past age 5: Prolonged habits can affect jaw shape and tooth position
The ideal age range for starting braces is 7 to 14, but every child develops differently. Some kids benefit from Phase 1 treatment as early as age 7, while others do best starting full treatment around 11 or 12.
Children who lose baby teeth very early or very late may benefit from an evaluation sooner rather than later. Early loss can cause teeth to shift into empty spaces, while late loss might indicate permanent teeth aren’t coming in properly.
During the evaluation, our orthodontists take digital scans, examine your child’s bite, and assess jaw development to build a clear picture of what’s happening beneath the surface. This thorough assessment is what sets 360 Orthodontics apart for families seeking braces for kids in Woodland Hills.
Not sure if your child is ready? 360 Orthodontics offers free consultations with no obligation. We’ll assess your child’s teeth and jaw, explain what we see, and give you an honest recommendation. If treatment isn’t needed yet, we’ll let you know when to come back for a follow-up check.
Both Phase 1 and full treatment options are available depending on what your child needs. We never recommend treatment that isn’t necessary.
Why Woodland Hills Families Choose 360 Orthodontics for Kids’ Braces
Parents in the Woodland Hills area have plenty of options for their children’s orthodontic care. Here’s why so many choose 360 Orthodontics:
Orthodontists who specialize in treating kids
Our orthodontists understand how kids think, what makes them comfortable, and how to explain treatment in ways they actually understand. That experience shows up in every appointment, from the first free consultation to the day the braces come off.
Advanced technology for better results
Digital X-rays and 3D scans mean more accurate diagnosis with less radiation exposure. We can show you exactly what’s happening with your child’s teeth and walk you through how treatment will help.
A kid-friendly environment that kids actually enjoy
Our office is designed to make visits fun, not scary. Parents tell us their kids ask when the next visit is. That’s the kind of experience we build.
Families who come back and refer friends
Woodland Hills families rate us highly for our care, communication, and results. With over 10k customers served, we’re proud of the relationships we’ve built across the community.
Easy payment plans that fit your budget
Quality orthodontic care should be accessible to every family. We offer $89 per month payment plans with no credit check required, and we work with most insurance plans to maximize your benefits. All-inclusive pricing means no hidden fees or surprise costs. All X-rays, scans and follow-up appointments included.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kids’ Braces in Woodland Hills
What is the best age to get braces for kids?
The best age for a child’s first orthodontic evaluation is 7, with treatment starting between ages 7 and 14 depending on the child. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends this early evaluation because it allows orthodontists to identify potential issues while the jaw is still developing. At 360 Orthodontics in Woodland Hills, we can spot problems early and figure out the best time to begin treatment. Some children start Phase 1 treatment around ages 7 to 10, while others wait until ages 11 to 14 for full treatment.
How long do kids wear braces?
Most children wear braces for 12 to 24 months, depending on the complexity of their case. Phase 1 treatment runs about 9 to 18 months, followed by a monitoring period before any Phase 2 treatment begins. Your orthodontist will give you a more specific timeline during your free consultation at our Woodland Hills office.
How much do braces for kids cost in Woodland Hills?
Pediatric braces in the Woodland Hills area generally range from $3,000 to $7,000 depending on complexity and type. 360 Orthodontics offers a free consultation where you’ll receive a personalized estimate. We also provide easy payment plans starting at $89 per month with no credit check required.
Do kids’ braces hurt?
Your child may experience mild soreness for a few days after getting braces and after adjustment appointments. This is normal and usually manageable with over-the-counter relief and soft foods. Most kids adjust quickly and say braces are much more comfortable than they expected, with many forgetting they’re even wearing them within a week.
Can my child play sports with braces?
Yes. Your child can keep playing sports throughout treatment. We recommend wearing a protective mouthguard during contact sports or any activity where facial impact is possible. Our team can provide or recommend mouthguards designed to fit over braces, so your child stays protected on the field or court.
Will braces affect my child’s speech?
Some children notice a slight lisp or adjustment period when they first get braces. This goes away within a few days to a week as your child’s mouth adapts. Braces don’t cause permanent speech changes.
Schedule Your Child’s Free Braces Consultation in Woodland Hills Today
A healthy smile starts early. Book a free, no-obligation consultation at 360 Orthodontics and find out exactly what your child needs.
During your visit, you’ll get a full exam, digital imaging, and a personalized treatment plan at no cost. Our team will answer every question and help you understand your options. You deserve a better smile, and getting one has never been easier.
Ready to get started? Call us at (310) 998-7600 or schedule online. We serve Woodland Hills families from our Los Angeles office, and also have offices in Santa Clarita, Oxnard, Santa Ana, and Colton.
Your child’s smile is worth it. Reach out to 360 Orthodontics today and find your smile.
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