Braces for Kids in Oakland, NJ
Every child’s smile develops at a different pace, which means the right time for braces is different for every child too. Some children benefit from early orthodontic treatment, while others simply need to be monitored as they grow. At Loeb Orthodontics, Dr. Allison Loeb takes a personalized approach to children’s orthodontic care, recommending treatment only when it is truly needed.
During your child’s evaluation, Dr. Loeb will look at their teeth, bite, jaw development, and facial growth to determine whether braces, early treatment, or continued observation is the best next step. In many cases, the most appropriate plan is simply to monitor growth until the timing is right for treatment.
If your child has crowded teeth, bite concerns, or your family dentist has recommended an orthodontic evaluation, we’re here to help. We’ll explain what we see, answer your questions, and recommend a treatment plan based on your child’s unique needs.
Families in Oakland, Franklin Lakes, Wyckoff, Ramsey, Mahwah, Wayne, Ringwood, Pompton Lakes, and surrounding Bergen County and Passaic County communities trust Loeb Orthodontics for thoughtful, child-friendly care in a welcoming environment.
When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. That may seem early, but it’s the ideal time to evaluate how the teeth, jaws, and bite are developing.
By age 7, many children have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth. This gives Dr. Allison Loeb the opportunity to identify potential concerns before they become more complicated. An early evaluation does not automatically mean your child needs braces right away. In many cases, it simply means we’ll keep an eye on growth and development over time.
For some children, early identification can make treatment easier later. It may help guide jaw growth, create space for incoming permanent teeth, or address bite issues while a child is still growing. For others, the best plan is to wait until more permanent teeth have erupted before beginning comprehensive braces.
The goal is always the same: to recommend the right treatment at the right time for your child’s smile.
How much do braces cost?
At your first visit to our office, we’ll work with you to create a flexible payment plan that meets your needs!
The cost of braces will depend on a few factors, including the length of your child’s treatment (based on the severity of their condition), whether you have orthodontic insurance, and the specific payment plan you choose with us.
Braces for Kids vs. Early Orthodontic Treatment
Many parents assume that an orthodontic visit at age 7 means braces are coming soon. In reality, that is not always the case. Some children benefit from early orthodontic treatment, while many simply need periodic observation until they are ready for comprehensive braces.
Early orthodontic treatment, sometimes called Phase 1 treatment, is used when a developing issue can be improved while a child is still growing. This type of care may help guide jaw development, create space for permanent teeth, improve bite function, reduce the complexity of future treatment, and address problems that are easier to correct early.
Early treatment may be recommended for children with:
- Significant crowding
- Crossbites or underbites
- Severe overbites
- Jaw growth discrepancies
- Harmful oral habits such as prolonged thumb sucking
- Teeth erupting in unfavorable positions
If your child does not need early treatment, that is often good news. Dr. Loeb may simply recommend observation visits to monitor growth and determine the best time to begin braces later on.
Signs Your Child May Need Braces
Not every orthodontic concern is obvious right away. Sometimes parents notice changes in their child’s smile or bite before anyone else does. If you notice any of the following, it may be time for an orthodontic evaluation.
Crowded or Crooked Teeth
If there is not enough room for permanent teeth to come in properly, they may overlap, twist, or erupt at an angle. Early evaluation can help determine whether treatment will be helpful as your child grows.
Bite Problems
A healthy bite allows the upper and lower teeth to fit together comfortably. Overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites can all affect how the teeth function and may benefit from orthodontic care.
Early or Late Loss of Baby Teeth
Baby teeth help guide permanent teeth into place. If baby teeth fall out too early or remain in place longer than expected, it may affect how permanent teeth erupt.
Difficulty Chewing or Biting
If your child has trouble chewing, biting into foods, or feels like their teeth do not fit together correctly, orthodontic alignment may be part of the problem.
Thumb Sucking or Mouth Breathing
Prolonged thumb sucking, pacifier use, and chronic mouth breathing can affect the development of the teeth and jaws. Early evaluation can help determine whether orthodontic intervention is needed.
Jaw Shifting or Uneven Growth
If your child shifts their jaw to one side when biting down or you notice facial asymmetry, that may indicate a bite or jaw development issue worth evaluating.
Teeth That Are Not Coming In Properly
Permanent teeth that are delayed, erupting in unusual places, or not appearing as expected may point to spacing or eruption concerns.
One of these signs does not always mean your child will need braces right away, but it is a good reason to schedule an orthodontic evaluation.
Braces and Orthodontic Treatment Options for Kids
Every child has different orthodontic needs, which is why treatment is never one-size-fits-all. After evaluating your child’s teeth, bite, and jaw development, Dr. Allison Loeb will recommend the option that best fits their smile and stage of growth.
Traditional Braces
Traditional metal braces remain one of the most effective ways to treat crowding, spacing, bite problems, and more complex orthodontic concerns. Today’s braces are smaller and more comfortable than ever, making them a reliable option for children and teens.
Orthodontic Appliances
Some children may benefit from orthodontic appliances before braces are needed. Depending on your child’s needs, Dr. Loeb may recommend an appliance to help guide jaw growth, create space, or improve bite alignment.
Clear Aligners for Kids
In some cases, clear aligners may also be considered for younger patients who are good candidates for removable treatment.
Growth Monitoring
Not every child needs treatment right away. In many cases, the best approach is simply to monitor development over time. Growth monitoring allows Dr. Loeb to choose the right time for treatment while avoiding unnecessary procedures.
During your child’s complimentary consultation, Dr. Loeb will review all appropriate options and explain what makes the most sense for your child.
What to Expect During Your Child's First Orthodontic Visit
Your child’s first visit to Loeb Orthodontics is designed to be comfortable, educational, and pressure-free. Our goal is to help you understand your child’s orthodontic needs and determine whether treatment is recommended now or later.
During the appointment, Dr. Allison Loeb may:
- Review your child’s dental and medical history
- Examine the teeth, bite, and jaw alignment
- Evaluate facial growth and smile development
- Take digital X-rays and photographs if needed
- Discuss any concerns you or your family dentist may have
After the evaluation, Dr. Loeb will explain her findings in clear, easy-to-understand language. If treatment is recommended, she will review the treatment plan, expected timeline, and next steps. If your child is not ready for braces, she may recommend observation visits to continue monitoring growth.
We believe parents should never feel rushed into making treatment decisions. Every recommendation is based on your child’s individual needs, giving you the information you need to make a confident decision for your child’s long-term oral health.
Investing in Your Child's Smile
One of the first questions many parents ask after learning their child may need braces is, “How much will treatment cost?” The answer depends on several factors, including your child’s orthodontic needs, the type of treatment recommended, and the overall complexity of the case.
At Loeb Orthodontics, we believe every family deserves access to exceptional orthodontic care. Before treatment begins, we’ll review your child’s personalized treatment plan, explain all associated costs, and answer any questions you may have so you know exactly what to expect.
We’ll also help you understand your orthodontic insurance benefits and explain the flexible financing options available to help make treatment fit your family’s budget. Our goal is to ensure financial concerns never stand in the way of achieving a healthy, confident smile.
If you’d like to learn more about treatment costs or available payment options, we invite you to explore our Cost of Braces and Insurance & Financing pages for additional information.
Why Families Choose Loeb Orthodontics for Braces for Kids
Choosing an orthodontist for your child is an important decision. You want a team that provides exceptional care, communicates clearly, and helps your child feel comfortable throughout every stage of treatment.
At Loeb Orthodontics, Dr. Allison Loeb takes a careful, personalized approach to every child’s smile. She evaluates each patient based on their age, bite, growth pattern, and long-term oral health goals before recommending treatment. Rather than recommending braces simply because they’re possible, Dr. Loeb recommends treatment when it’s truly the right time for your child’s smile.
Our team is dedicated to creating a warm, family-friendly environment where children feel at ease and parents feel informed. We take the time to answer your questions, explain treatment options, and help your family feel confident in every decision.
Using modern orthodontic technology and proven treatment techniques, we strive to make treatment as efficient and comfortable as possible. Whether your child needs early orthodontic care, growth monitoring, or comprehensive braces, you can count on thoughtful, compassionate care every step of the way.
Children's Orthodontic Care in Oakland, NJ
If you think your child may need braces, the best first step is an orthodontic evaluation. Whether treatment is recommended now or simply monitored as your child grows, early assessment can help lay the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
At Loeb Orthodontics, Dr. Allison Loeb provides personalized orthodontic care for children of all ages. From early orthodontic evaluations and growth monitoring to braces for kids, every recommendation is based on your child’s unique needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
We’re proud to serve families throughout Oakland, Franklin Lakes, Wyckoff, Ramsey, Mahwah, Wayne, Ringwood, Pompton Lakes, and surrounding Bergen County and Passaic County communities.
Contact Loeb Orthodontics today to schedule your child’s complimentary consultation and learn how we can help them achieve a healthy, confident smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
At What Age Should My Child See an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this stage, Dr. Allison Loeb can assess how the teeth, jaws, and bite are developing and determine whether treatment is needed now or later.
Does Every Child Need Braces?
No. Many children who visit Loeb Orthodontics do not need braces right away. Some only need periodic observation while their permanent teeth continue to erupt.
What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment?
Early orthodontic treatment, or Phase 1 treatment, is care provided while a child is still growing. It is used to guide development, improve bite function, create space, and address certain concerns early when appropriate.
What Is the Best Age for Kids to Get Braces?
There is no single perfect age for every child. Many children begin braces between the ages of 10 and 14, but some benefit from earlier treatment while others are better served by waiting until more permanent teeth have erupted.
Are Braces Painful for Children?
Braces do not usually hurt when they are placed, but mild soreness is common for a few days after placement or adjustments. This usually improves quickly as the mouth adjusts to treatment.
How Long Do Kids Usually Wear Braces?
Treatment time varies based on each child’s orthodontic needs. Many children wear braces for approximately 18 to 24 months, although some treatment plans may be shorter or longer. Dr. Allison Loeb will provide an estimated treatment timeline during your consultation.
Can My Child Still Play Sports or Musical Instruments with Braces?
Yes. Children with braces can continue participating in sports, band, and other activities. A properly fitted orthodontic mouthguard is recommended for contact sports, and most children quickly adapt to playing musical instruments with braces.
Will My Child Have to Avoid Certain Foods with Braces?
Yes. Hard, sticky, and chewy foods can damage braces and delay treatment. We’ll provide guidance on foods to avoid, braces-friendly meal ideas, and tips for keeping treatment on schedule.
Does Insurance Help Cover Braces for Kids?
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits for children. We’ll review your insurance benefits, explain your coverage, and discuss flexible financing options to help make orthodontic treatment affordable for your family.
How Do I Schedule My Child's Complimentary Consultation?
Scheduling is easy. Contact Loeb Orthodontics to request your child’s complimentary consultation at our Oakland Office. Dr. Allison Loeb will evaluate your child’s smile, answer your questions, and recommend the treatment that’s right for their needs.
Start smiling!
For over 50 years, we’ve provided personalized orthodontic care for families in Oakland, NJ. We’re known for going above and beyond to meet our patients’ needs, and we truly value the relationships we build along the way.
A lifetime of smiles starts here. Request your complimentary consultation today.