Early Orthodontic Treatment
Braces for Kids in Simi Valley, CA
A lifetime of confident smiles begins at Soul Orthodontics in Simi Valley.
With interceptive orthodontics (orthodontics for kids), our board-certified children’s orthodontist can detect, treat, and help prevent developing issues before they become more complex.
Dr. Albert also has advanced training in dentofacial orthopedics, which focuses on guiding how the jaws and facial structures grow, an important part of early orthodontic treatment for children.
When should you schedule your child's first orthodontic check-up?
The AAO (American Association of Orthodontists) along with our board-certified doctor, recommends that children have their first orthodontic check-up at age 7, or earlier if issues are apparent.
Age 7 is generally the prime time for us to detect growth concerns in the jaws, identify problematic conditions that are about to emerge, and create a plan to gently intercept these issues before they progress.
That said, every smile grows at its own pace.
Dr. Albert takes the time to assess what’s best for your child, and only suggests moving forward when the timing is right.
If your child isn’t ready for treatment yet, they’ll get to join our Kids Club for complimentary observation visits every six months or so!
Benefits of Interceptive Orthodontics
Early orthodontic treatment, also called interceptive orthodontics, allows us to address developing issues in a more natural and efficient way.
By guiding jaw development at the right time, we can:
- Guide jaw growth and alignment while bones are still developing
- Reduce or eliminate the need for extractions or jaw surgery in many cases
- Create space for permanent teeth to erupt properly
- Shorten or simplify future treatment (Phase Two)
- Prevent crowding, crossbites, overbites, and other bite problems
- Improve facial balance and overall oral health
- Boost your child’s comfort, confidence, and self-esteem early on
How do I know if my child needs braces or another orthodontic treatment?
If you notice these signs or symptoms in your child, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our board-certified kids’ orthodontist:
- Persistent mouth-breathing
- Thumbsucking or tongue-thrusting habits
- Early, late or irregular loss of baby teeth
- Crooked, crowded or gapped teeth
- Jaw pain or facial pain
- Jaw shifting, popping or clicking
- Difficult or pain when chewing or biting
- Inability to chew food properly
- Digestive issues caused by improper chewing
- Lack of self esteem or confidence when smiling
Making Kids' Orthodontics Fun
At Soul Orthodontics, we believe a great experience is just as important as great results.
From our iPad bar and kid-friendly technology that helps visits feel easy and relaxed, to fun office contests with prizes to win, we make every appointment something to look forward to.
It’s all part of creating a positive, confidence-building experience that kids actually enjoy.
Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment
Phase One Orthodontics
Phase 1 orthodontic treatment is typically completed between ages 6 and 10.
The goal is to support healthy jaw development and create the space needed for permanent teeth to come in properly.
During this phase, your child may wear a palatal expander or other growth appliance to widen the upper jaw and guide growth.
This creates a strong foundation for permanent teeth to be aligned during Phase 2.
Phase Two Orthodontics
Phase 2 typically begins in the early teen years, once all permanent teeth are in place.
This phase focuses on aligning the teeth and jaws to create a balanced, functional, and natural-looking smile, often with full braces.
Because every child develops differently, timing can vary.
At your complimentary consultation, we’ll guide you toward the right plan for your child
Explore Kids' Orthodontics in Simi Valley
Whether it’s your child’s first orthodontic check-up, your child is ready for braces, or you’re simply looking to speak with a children’s orthodontist near you, we welcome you to Soul Orthodontics.
Schedule your complimentary consultation at our Simi Valley orthodontic office, and we’ll guide you through the rest.