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Braces for kids & teens

Braces for kids & teens

At docbraces, we understand that every child and teenager deserves the opportunity to enjoy a beautiful, confident smile as they grow and develop. That's why we offer comprehensive orthodontic treatments designed specifically for kids and teens, such as braces for kids or braces for teens, ceramic braces, or Invisalign for teens. Our experienced team of orthodontists is dedicated to providing the best orthodontic care possible to help your kid or teen achieve the smile they've always wanted.

The Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have an early orthodontic evaluation by age seven. Having an early consultation with a docbraces orthodontist can help your child avoid more complex and expensive treatments later in life, and in some cases, can eliminate the need for braces altogether. Patients with more complex cases or oral habits such as thumb-sucking can benefit dramatically from an early phase of treatment, preventing the need for more invasive treatment later.

Straightening options for kids & teens

While Invisalign® treatments may not be suitable for young kids, we offer a range of effective treatment options that are suitable for younger patients:

Traditional Braces Ceramic Braces Invisalign Teen Clear Aligners
Straightening options for kids & teens

Traditional Braces

Best for fixing gaps in teeth, crowding, misalignment, overbite and underbite, braces are a functional solution for even the most complex cases. At docbraces, we offer friction-free braces, which do not require elastic or metal ties.


Friction-free braces utilize light, high-tech wires that move teeth faster and more comfortably than conventional materials. Without the need for tightening, fewer adjustments are required during treatment, while the ceramic and stainless steel used also give the brackets a smaller appearance.

• Learn more about Braces for Kids
• Learn more about Braces for Teens

Straightening options for kids & teens

Ceramic Braces

Just like traditional braces, ceramic braces are perfect for fixing gaps in teeth, crowding, misalignment, overbites, and underbites. At docbraces, we offer clear braces, which are made out of a translucent material that does not stain, and friction-free braces, which do not require elastic or metal ties.

Ceramic Braces are a great solution for those who don’t want to draw unwanted attention to their orthodontic treatment. Depending on the amount of treatment that is needed, ceramic braces may only be used for the upper front teeth, which are the teeth that are displayed most when smiling.

Learn more about Ceramic Braces

Straightening options for kids & teens

Invisalign Teen Clear Aligners

Invisalign Teen treatment uses a series of clear, plastic aligners that are custom-made to reposition a teenager’s teeth, based on a customized treatment plan created by your orthodontist. The trays are clear and can be removed at any time, which means cleaning and maintenance is simple, and your teenager can continue eating whatever they like.


Each set of Invisalign Teen trays are worn 22 hours a day and replaced every seven days, but varies by patient and doctor. Each new tray has slight tooth movements built into them and, over time, these subtle changes will cause a teenager’s teeth to slowly move into their desired position.


Best for aesthetic purposes, such as misaligned teeth, Invisalign Teen treatment is ideal for high school-age teens.

Learn more about Invisalign for Teens

What to expect when getting orthodontic treatment for kids & teens

Curious about orthodontic treatment for your kids and teens? Here's what you can expect when your child or teenager begins their orthodontic journey:

EXCEPT KIDS TEENS

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At this stage, one of our friendly treatment coordinators will review the details of the prescribed treatment plan, explore flexible financing options with you, and answer any questions you may have.

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Step 01

One of our warm and friendly team members will perform a comprehensive examination of your child's teeth and jaw. This may include digital x-rays and photographs. Based on these findings, a personalized treatment plan will be created to address their specific needs.

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Step 03

Once all of the details are finalized, treatment can begin – even on the same day – and your child will be on their way to having the happy, healthy smile that they deserve!

01

Step 01

One of our warm and friendly team members will perform a comprehensive examination of your child's teeth and jaw. This may include digital x-rays and photographs. Based on these findings, a personalized treatment plan will be created to address their specific needs.

02

Step 02

At this stage, one of our friendly treatment coordinators will review the details of the prescribed treatment plan, explore flexible financing options with you, and answer any questions you may have.

03

Step 03

Once all of the details are finalized, treatment can begin – even on the same day – and your child will be on their way to having the happy, healthy smile that they deserve!

Early intervention orthodontics for kids

If your child is a candidate for early intervention, they will most likely start at what is known as “Phase 1.” Though each phase will be different for every child, Phase 1 usually involves a dental appliance (palatal expanders or space maintainers), which is used to improve the alignment and development of jaws, create or maintain space for adult teeth, and reduce crowding.

Dental appliances can also help with correcting harmful oral habits and speech impediments as well as improve the ease of breathing. Following the completion of Phase 1, your child will be regularly monitored by our orthodontists to determine if and when full braces or Invisalign treatment are required to completely align any remaining teeth and bite issues.

brunette teenage girl with big smile and braces hiding, looking through hands

Not quite ready?

Your docbraces team always has your child’s best interests at heart. If your child is not considered to be at the appropriate stage in their development to begin treatment, their development will be monitored through regularly scheduled visits until it is determined that they are ready to begin treatment.

Kids and teens orthodontics FAQs

At what age should my child be assessed by an orthodontist?

The guideline set out by the Canadian Association of Orthodontists states that children should see an Orthodontist for an early evaluation by the time they turn seven. By this point, a child’s jaw and teeth will have formed enough so that any developing issues are obvious, and an Orthodontist will be able to identify what treatment, if any, will be beneficial. For most patients, treatment won’t start until well after age seven. You don’t need a referral to have your child assessed by a docbraces Orthodontist.

How long does orthodontic treatment for kids and teens typically last?

The duration of treatment depends on the individual case's complexity. On average, treatment can range from 12 to 24 months. Your child's orthodontist will provide a more precise estimate during the consultation.

Will braces affect my child's daily activities, such as eating and playing sports?

Braces may require some adjustment, but most kids and teens adapt quickly. Eating with braces may require some modification initially, but they can enjoy most of their favorite foods with a little caution. If you participate in sports or play a musical instrument, docbraces can recommend special mouthguards or provide guidance on how to protect your braces during these activities. It's important to let your orthodontist know about your specific concerns so they can provide appropriate solutions.

Is orthodontic treatment painful for kids and teens?

Some tenderness when chewing is typically experienced for a few days following an orthodontic adjustment, or after changing to a new set of Invisalign® clear aligners. Any discomfort is typically mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief, and soft foods.

How do I care for my child's braces or orthodontic appliance?

A member of our docbraces Smile Team will provide specific instructions on how to care for your child's braces or appliances, including proper cleaning and dietary guidelines. There are handy videos on how to care for your child’s braces on our Quick Tips page.

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Ready for the smile you've always wanted? Let's talk!

Don't wait to give your child the gift of a confident, beautiful smile. At docbraces, we're here to support your child every step of the way on their orthodontic journey. Schedule their initial consultation today, and let our experienced orthodontists create a personalized treatment plan that aligns with their unique needs and goals.

Contact us now to take the first step toward your child's radiant smile. With our effective treatment options and flexible payment plans, there's no better time to start their journey toward a straighter, healthier smile. We look forward to helping them unlock their perfect smile.

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