Early Orthodontic Treatment
Braces for Kids in Rock Hill, SC
Wondering whether your child needs braces?
An early evaluation helps us understand how their teeth and jaws are developing, and whether treatment would help now or later.
When should my child see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic checkup no later than age 7.
At this stage, we’re able to evaluate jaw growth, bite development, spacing concerns, and how permanent teeth are beginning to erupt.
For many children, the right next step is simply observation.
An early visit helps Dr. Coombs explain whether your child could benefit from treatment now or continued monitoring as their teeth and jaws develop.
You deserve to understand the “why” behind your child’s care.
Dr. Coombs takes the time to explain, answer questions, and help you feel confident about what comes next.
Your ABO-Board Certified Children’s Orthodontist in Rock Hill, SC
Dr. Spencer Coombs brings over a decade of experience in dentistry and orthodontics, including growth guidance and airway-focused care.
At our locally owned, single-doctor practice, your child sees the same orthodontist throughout treatment.
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment
Early interceptive orthodontics addresses specific developing concerns while a child is still growing.
When appropriate, treatment may improve bite function and make later care less complex.
Early orthodontic treatment may help:
- Guide jaw growth and bite development
- Create space for incoming permanent teeth and reduce crowding
- Correct crossbites and other developing bite concerns
- Address habits that affect tooth and jaw development
- Improve facial balance and smile aesthetics
Timing depends on your child’s development and treatment goals.
An early evaluation doesn’t automatically mean early treatment.
Growth Guidance & Airway Health
Dr. Coombs takes a whole-health approach to orthodontics for kids, considering jaw development, bite function, facial growth, and airway health.
For some children, guiding jaw development or widening a narrow upper jaw can address bite concerns and create room for incoming teeth.
If your child snores regularly, breathes through their mouth, or sleeps restlessly, let us know. Dr. Coombs evaluates airway concerns and works with a trusted ENT specialist when appropriate.
Before recommending treatment, we’ll explain:
- Why we’re recommending it
- Your options, including their benefits and limitations
- What happens if we wait
- And what the long-term plan looks like
Braces for Kids & Early Treatment Options
Braces for kids are one option for a developing smile.
Depending on your child’s needs, Dr. Coombs may recommend braces, clear aligners, a palatal expander, or another appliance.
Some children benefit from two phases of treatment, with a period of growth monitoring between them. Others need only one phase.
Phase I Orthodontic Treatment
Phase I begins while a child is still growing and some baby teeth remain. Timing depends on the concern being treated.
The goal of this phase is to guide jaw development, create space when needed, and address developing problems before they become more severe.
Depending on your child’s needs, treatment may include:
- Palatal expanders
- Early orthodontic appliances
- Braces for kids with targeted treatment needs
- Phase I clear aligners in select cases
Phase II Orthodontic Treatment
After growth and tooth development continue, Phase II treatment focuses on final alignment and bite refinement once most or all permanent teeth have erupted.
This phase may include:
- Braces
- Clear aligners
- Detailed bite correction and smile alignment
Because every child develops differently, treatment timing and recommendations are always personalized.
What is the cost of children’s orthodontics?
Your child’s cost depends on their treatment needs, the type of treatment, and its expected length.
At your complimentary consultation, we’ll:
- Explain your child’s options and provide a clear cost for their personalized treatment plan.
- Review your insurance benefits. Some plans help cover children’s orthodontics. We’ll verify coverage and file claims for you.
- Create a payment plan together, with 0% interest in-house financing and flexible monthly payments that meet your family’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Children's Orthodontics
What are the signs my child may need braces?
Crowded or protruding teeth, difficulty biting or chewing, frequent cheek biting, and a jaw that shifts when closing can signal an orthodontic concern. Losing baby teeth unusually early or late is also worth checking.
Dr. Coombs can determine what needs attention.
Will my child’s crooked teeth straighten as they grow?
Not necessarily. Crowding and bite problems often persist as permanent teeth come in.
A children’s orthodontic evaluation helps distinguish normal changes in a developing smile from concerns that may need treatment.
Can thumb sucking affect my child’s teeth or jaw development?
Yes. Persistent thumb or finger sucking can affect tooth alignment and the developing bite, especially as permanent teeth arrive. The effects depend on the habit’s frequency, duration, and intensity.
Dr. Coombs can assess any changes and discuss supportive next steps.
Does my child still need dental checkups during orthodontic treatment?
Yes. Orthodontic appointments focus on tooth movement, jaw development, and bite alignment.
Your child should continue seeing their general or pediatric dentist for cleanings, cavity checks, and preventive care throughout treatment.
Do I need a dentist’s referral to see a children’s orthodontist in Rock Hill?
No referral is needed at Coombs Orthodontics.
You can schedule your child’s complimentary consultation directly with Dr. Coombs at our Rock Hill, SC office, whether you’ve noticed a concern yourself or your dentist recommended an evaluation.
Lead with a smile.
We’ll make the next steps easy.
Book a complimentary consultation at our Rock Hill orthodontic office, or start with a virtual consult from home first.