Children's Orthodontic Treatment at Pinecrest Orthodontics

Braces for Kids

If you're searching for braces for kids in Pinecrest, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay, Kendall, South Miami, or Homestead, you've come to the right place. At Pinecrest Orthodontics, Dr. Victoria Rothman is dedicated to helping children develop healthy, confident smiles through personalized orthodontic care.

Every child grows at their own pace, which is why we believe orthodontic treatment should begin at the right time—not necessarily at a certain age. Whether your child needs early intervention or is ready for comprehensive braces, our team creates a customized treatment plan designed specifically for their smile.

Personalized CarePersonalized orthodontic care.
Growth MonitoringComplimentary growth monitoring.
Customized PlansTreatment designed specifically for their smile.
Confident SmilesHealthy, confident smiles.

When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation around age 7. By this age, enough permanent teeth have erupted to identify developing bite and jaw concerns, even if treatment isn't needed right away.

At Pinecrest Orthodontics, many children simply visit us for complimentary growth monitoring until the ideal time to begin treatment.

Early evaluations allow us to:

  • Monitor facial and jaw growth
  • Identify developing orthodontic concerns
  • Determine whether early treatment is beneficial
  • Plan for the most efficient treatment at the appropriate age

Signs Your Child May Need Braces

While every child is different, some common signs include:

Crowded or crooked teeth
Teeth that overlap
Spaces between teeth
Overbite or underbite
Crossbite
Open bite
Protruding front teeth
Difficulty chewing or biting
Mouth breathing
Early or delayed loss of baby teeth
Thumb-sucking habits that have affected tooth alignment

If you've noticed any of these concerns, scheduling an orthodontic consultation can help determine whether treatment is recommended.

Does Every Child Need Early Orthodontic Treatment?

No.

One of the biggest misconceptions is that every child needs braces as soon as they visit an orthodontist. In reality, most children do not require treatment at age 7.

Dr. Rothman carefully evaluates each child's growth and bite before making any recommendations. If treatment can safely wait, we'll simply continue to monitor your child's development at no cost until the timing is ideal.

When early treatment is recommended, it may help:

Guide jaw growth
Create space for permanent teeth
Improve severe crowding
Correct harmful bite problems
Reduce the likelihood of future tooth extractions
Lower the risk of injury to protruding front teeth
Simplify future orthodontic treatment

Our philosophy is simple: the right treatment at the right time.

Before and after braces results at Pinecrest Orthodontics
Before and after braces smile transformation at Pinecrest Orthodontics

Braces for Children

Traditional metal braces continue to be one of the most effective orthodontic treatments for children. Today's braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more efficient than ever before.

Children often enjoy choosing colorful elastic ties at each visit, allowing them to personalize and customize their smile while treatment progresses.

Depending on your child's orthodontic needs, Dr. Rothman will recommend the treatment option that offers the best long-term results.

Learn from Dr. Rothman

Learn About Braces

Watch these short videos to learn how braces work and what to expect during treatment. Dr. Rothman explains today's modern braces and how they help create healthy, confident smiles.

What Are Braces?

Learn how braces gently move teeth into healthier alignment while improving bite function and long-term oral health.

About Metal Braces

Dr. Rothman explains why modern metal braces remain one of the most effective treatment options for growing smiles.

How Long Will My Child Wear Braces?

Treatment time varies depending on your child's age, growth, and orthodontic needs.

Phase 1 Treatment
Early orthodontic treatment with braces typically lasts 12–18 months.
Comprehensive Treatment
Most comprehensive braces treatment lasts approximately 18–24 months, although some children finish sooner while others require additional time.

Regular appointments allow us to monitor progress and make adjustments that keep treatment moving efficiently.

Caring for Braces

Good oral hygiene is essential throughout orthodontic treatment.

Children with braces should:

1 Brush after every meal
2 Floss every day
3 Limit sticky, chewy, and hard foods
4 Wear rubber bands exactly as instructed
5 Regularly attend scheduled orthodontic appointments
6 Continue regular cleanings and checkup visits with their pediatric or general dentist
Our team provides detailed instructions and ongoing support so your child feels confident caring for their braces.

Why Families Choose Pinecrest Orthodontics

Families throughout Pinecrest, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay, Kendall, South Miami, Homestead, and the surrounding communities trust Pinecrest Orthodontics because we combine advanced technology with personalized care.

Patients appreciate:

Individualized treatment plans
Digital scanning—no messy impressions in most cases
A welcoming, family-friendly environment
Honest recommendations and customized treatment plans
Convenient appointment scheduling
A caring team committed to making every visit a positive experience

Our goal is to help every child achieve a healthy bite, a beautiful smile, and confidence that lasts a lifetime.

Pinecrest Orthodontics treatment area
Pinecrest Orthodontics exterior

Frequently Asked Questions About Braces for Kids

At what age should my child get braces?

Every child is different. While the first orthodontic evaluation is recommended around age 7, the ideal age for braces depends on their individual growth, dental development, and specific orthodontic needs.

Are braces painful?

Children may experience mild soreness for a few days after braces are placed or adjusted, but this typically resolves quickly. Modern braces are designed to be more comfortable than ever.

Can my child still play sports?

Absolutely. We recommend wearing a properly fitted orthodontic mouthguard during sports to protect the teeth and braces.

Can my child eat normally with braces?

Yes, although hard, sticky, and chewy foods should be avoided to prevent damage to the braces and delays in treatment. We'll provide a complete list of foods to enjoy and foods to avoid.

How often will we need appointments?

Most patients are seen every 6–8 weeks for routine adjustments and progress checks.

Schedule Your Complimentary Orthodontic Consultation

If you're looking for a trusted children's orthodontist in Pinecrest or searching for kids' braces near Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay, Kendall, South Miami, or Homestead, we'd love to welcome you to Pinecrest Orthodontics.

Dr. Victoria Rothman and our experienced team are committed to providing exceptional orthodontic care in a warm, caring, and supportive environment. We look forward to helping your child achieve a healthy, confident smile that will last a lifetime. Good vibes, great smiles, guaranteed!