Orthodontics for Kidsin Cerritos
Give Your Child the Gift of a Confident Smile
At Bae Orthodontics in Cerritos, CA, Dr. Bae understands that as a parent, you want the very best for your child. A healthy, beautiful smile isn’t just about straight teeth—it’s about building confidence, preventing future dental problems, and setting your child up for a lifetime of good oral health. That’s why early orthodontic care can make all the difference.
Why Early Matters
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. This doesn’t necessarily mean your child needs braces right away, but early assessment allows Dr. Bae to identify potential issues while your child is still growing. Catching problems early—like crowding, bite issues, or jaw development concerns—often means simpler, shorter treatment later on.
Dr. Bae has helped countless families in Cerritos give their children the advantage of early intervention. By guiding jaw growth and creating space for permanent teeth, early treatment can prevent more complex procedures down the road and sometimes eliminate the need for tooth extractions or surgery.
Common Issues We Treat in Children
Early detection and treatment of these common childhood orthodontic issues can prevent more complex problems later.
Crowding
When there isn’t enough space for permanent teeth to emerge properly
Spacing
Gaps between teeth that may affect function and appearance
Crossbites
When upper teeth bite inside lower teeth, affecting jaw development
Overbites
When upper front teeth stick out too far over lower teeth
Underbites
When lower teeth protrude past upper teeth
Harmful Habits
Thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or mouth breathing patterns
Kid-Friendly Treatment Options
We offer gentle, effective treatments designed specifically for children’s growing smiles and active lifestyles.
Invisalign First
Clear Aligners for Mixed Dentition. Revolutionary clear aligners designed specifically for children with both baby and permanent teeth. Nearly invisible and comfortable for active kids.
- Virtually invisible treatment
- Removable for eating and sports
- Comfortable with no wires or brackets
- Designed for growing smiles
Palatal Expanders
Gentle appliances that gradually widen the upper jaw to create space for permanent teeth and improve breathing.
- Creates space for crowded teeth
- Improves airway and breathing
- Corrects crossbites naturally
- Works with natural growth patterns
Space Maintainers
Holding Space for Permanent Teeth
Custom appliances that hold space when baby teeth are lost early, ensuring permanent teeth have room to emerge properly.
- Prevents teeth from shifting
- Maintains proper spacing
- Reduces need for future extractions
- Comfortable and discrete
Questions Parents Ask
Get answers to the most common questions about orthodontic care for children.
When should my child first see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This doesn’t mean treatment will start immediately, but it allows us to monitor development and identify the optimal time for intervention if needed.
Will my child need braces later if they have early treatment?
Early treatment creates a healthy foundation, but some children may need additional treatment when all permanent teeth have emerged. However, early intervention often reduces the complexity and duration of any future treatment needed.
How do I prepare my child for their first orthodontic visit?
Explain that the orthodontist is a special dentist who helps make smiles healthy and beautiful. Emphasize that the first visit is just to look at their teeth and take pictures. Let them know it won’t hurt and that they’ll learn about keeping their teeth healthy.
How much does orthodontic treatment for children cost?
Treatment costs vary depending on your child’s specific needs. We offer flexible payment plans and work with most insurance providers. Early treatment is often more cost-effective than waiting, as it can prevent more complex issues from developing.
Can my child still play sports during treatment?
Absolutely! We encourage children to stay active. For contact sports, we’ll provide a protective mouthguard. Many treatments like Invisalign First can be removed during sports activities, making participation even easier.
Braces for Kids
Getting braces during childhood or adolescence is often the ideal time to correct dental issues, as young jaws are still growing and teeth are easier to guide into proper position. Braces can fix crowding, gaps, overbites, underbites, and other alignment problems that, if left untreated, may lead to difficulties with chewing, speech, or long-term dental health. With colorful bands and fun customization options, today’s braces make the journey to a healthier, straighter smile an exciting milestone for kids.
Invisalign First
Retention
After completing orthodontic treatment, wearing a retainer is essential to maintain your newly straightened smile and prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Retainers can be removable or fixed, and your orthodontist will provide specific instructions on how often to wear them—typically full-time at first, then transitioning to nighttime wear. Consistent retainer use is the key to protecting your investment in orthodontic treatment and ensuring your beautiful results last a lifetime.