Orthodontics
Orthodontics for Kids & Teens
Building healthy smiles for brighter futures.
At Summit Dental Care, we provide personalized orthodontic care for children and teenagers in Elgin, IL, helping them achieve straight, healthy smiles that support their confidence and long-term oral health. Our experienced team creates treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs and goals.
Early evaluation
Identify and address potential orthodontic issues early.
Personalized treatment
Plans tailored to your child’s unique needs and goals.
Supportive, friendly team
A positive experience for kids and teens.
About Orthodontics for Kids & Teens
What is orthodontics for kids & teens?
Orthodontic treatment for children and teenagers focuses on guiding proper jaw development, correcting tooth alignment, and addressing bite issues. Early evaluation and timely treatment can help prevent more complex problems in the future, improve oral health, and create confident, healthy smiles that last a lifetime.
Common concerns we can help address:
- Crooked or crowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbite or underbite
- Crossbite
- Open bite
- Jaw alignment concerns
- Early signs of orthodontic problems
- Guidance during growth and development
Our Approach
Personalized care for growing smiles.
We take the time to understand your child’s needs, evaluate their oral health, and create a customized orthodontic treatment plan to help them achieve a healthy, confident smile.
Comprehensive Evaluation
We’ll examine your child’s teeth, jaw development, and bite, and discuss their goals and treatment options.
Customized Treatment Plan
We’ll recommend the best approach based on your child’s needs, age, and stage of development.
Ongoing Monitoring
We’ll track progress, make adjustments as needed, and provide support throughout their treatment journey.
Orthodontic Treatment Options
Solutions for every stage of their smile.
We offer a range of orthodontic treatment options to meet the needs of children and teenagers.
Clear Aligners
A discreet and removable option for teens who want a more subtle approach to orthodontic treatment.
Traditional Braces
A reliable and effective solution for a wide range of alignment and bite concerns.
Early Orthodontic Evaluation
Recommended around age 7 to identify potential issues and guide proper development.
Adolescent Orthodontics
Treatment options designed to fit the needs and lifestyles of teenagers.
The Benefits
More than just a straighter smile.
Orthodontic treatment can do more than improve the appearance of your child’s teeth. It can also support their overall oral health and quality of life.
- Improves smile appearance and self-confidence
- Supports healthy jaw development
- Helps prevent more serious dental problems
- Makes teeth easier to clean
- Can improve bite function and comfort
- Provides long-lasting results
Is Orthodontics Right for Your Child?
They may be a good candidate if they:
- Have crooked, crowded, or misaligned teeth
- Have gaps between teeth
- Have bite issues such as overbite, underbite, or crossbite
- Are around age 7 or older (recommended initial evaluation)
- Are in good oral and overall health
- Are committed to following their treatment plan and attending regular appointments
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should my child have an orthodontic evaluation?
Around age 7. By then the first adult molars are usually in, so we can spot bite and spacing issues early. Many children won’t need treatment right away, but early checks help with timing.
How long does orthodontic treatment take for kids and teens?
Most comprehensive treatment takes about 12 to 24 months. Early (phase one) treatment for younger children is often shorter.
Are braces or clear aligners better for my child?
It depends on your child’s needs and habits. Braces are fixed and suit most cases; clear aligners can work well for responsible teens who will wear them as directed.
Will my insurance cover orthodontic treatment?
Many dental plans include orthodontic benefits for children and teens, often with a lifetime maximum. Our team can check your coverage and walk you through your payment options.