Braces for Children and Teens in Jacksonville Beach
and Ponte Vedra Beach

The Brace Place provides braces for children and teens in Jacksonville Beach & Ponte Vedra, FL. Call 904-249-0037 or contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation.

What Is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry that corrects misaligned teeth and bite patterns. When the teeth are not in proper alignment, it can cause a variety of dental and other health problems. Orthodontic treatment can reposition the teeth and adjust the shape of the jaw for effective chewing capabilities and improved dental health. It also results in a better looking smile.

Orthodontics is often divided into two phases. For children that need early orthodontic intervention, phase one of treatment may begin around age 7. This could involve braces or other orthodontic treatments that are designed to make some adjustments now that will reduce orthodontic problems later. Phase two of treatment will typically take place in adolescence or the teenage years, and will most likely include braces.

Benefits of Braces for Children and Teens

Braces offer many benefits, including:

• Healthier teeth. Properly aligned teeth are easier to keep clean and less likely to develop decay. And when the teeth meet together properly there is less chance of damage or abnormal wearing down.
  
• Avoid jaw pain and headaches. When the top and bottom teeth meet together in a properly aligned bite, it prevents excess strain on the jaw that could lead to jaw pain and headaches without treatment.
  
• Improved smile. Braces can straighten the teeth and eliminate gaps between the teeth, which improves the smile and boosts confidence.
  
• Early treatment can reduce later treatment. Starting orthodontic treatment around age 7-8 can make adjustments and encourage proper growth of the jaw. This can improve a child’s current dental health and reduce the length of later treatment.

Types of Braces Offered

We provide the following types of braces for children and teens:

• Metal braces. Traditional metal brackets and wires are still one of the most common and most effective orthodontic treatments.
  
• Clear braces. Clear brackets are designed to blend in with the natural color of the teeth in order to be less visible. They work the same way as metal braces.
• Aesthetic braces. These are champagne colored metal braces that are designed to blend in with the teeth for a more subtle appearance. The color is often described as rose gold.

Why Choose The Brace Place?

We provide a patient-first experience at The Brace Place that focuses on each individual’s specific needs. Dr. Goldknopf is a board certified orthodontist who is highly qualified in the field. We offer a wide range of orthodontic services that can treat even the most complex conditions. Our modern practice is fully equipped with the latest technology in orthodontics to make the patient experience comfortable and relaxing. We provide a friendly, welcoming environment that is appropriate and fun for children and teens.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best age to get braces?

Braces can be effective at any age, but they are most commonly used in adolescence for a variety of reasons. For one, by the age of 11-13 most children have lost all of their baby teeth and their permanent teeth are in place. Growth spurts are common in adolescence as well, which braces can take advantage of to shift the teeth and adjust the shape of the jaw.

When should my child have an orthodontic evaluation?

The first orthodontic evaluation should take place around the age of 7. This way growth modification treatment can be applied that can improve the current state of the teeth and jaw and reduce the need for future treatment.

Are braces painful?

When braces are first put on, they can cause some soreness in the jaw. This is because the teeth are being shifted out of their usual position for the first time. Discomfort can be managed with over the counter pain medication and will typically subside within a few days. Each time the braces are adjusted, there may be some tenderness for a day or two.

Are braces covered by insurance?

Many dental insurance plans include coverage for orthodontics. Contact your insurance provider for specific details about orthodontic coverage or refer to your benefits guide.

How do you care for your teeth with braces?

Effective brushing technique and special toothbrushes make it easier to get under the archwire and around the brackets. Flossing requires threading the floss under the archwire between each tooth, but there are special tools to make that easier as well.

Contact Us Today

To learn more, call 904-249-0037 or contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation.