If you’re a parent considering braces for your child or teenager, you’ve probably heard mixed opinions — “It’s too early,” “It’s painful,” “They’ll hate it,” or “We should wait.” Let’s talk honestly and calmly about what braces for children and teens are really like today, and why the outcomes can be genuinely life‑changing.

At Gentle Dental, we have been providing orthodontic care — including braces for children, teenagers, and adults — for over thirty years. This long experience allows us to guide families with clarity, reassurance, and realistic expectations.

Why Braces in Childhood and the Teen Years Matter

Children’s jaws and bones are still growing. This makes orthodontic treatment during these years more efficient, more stable, and often simpler than waiting until adulthood.

Braces can help to:
• guide jaw growth in the right direction 
• create space for crowded teeth 
• correct bite problems early 
• reduce uneven tooth wear 
• prevent more complex treatment later 

When Should a Child Be Assessed?

An orthodontic assessment does not automatically mean braces will start immediately. It simply means watching development at the right time.

An initial assessment is often recommended around 7–9 years old, allowing us to monitor jaw and facial growth and plan the best timing for treatment.

What the Braces Process Is Really Like

Most children and teens adapt to braces far more quickly than parents expect. The process usually includes:
• a gentle assessment and explanation 
• planning and records 
• placement of braces in a calm, supportive setting 
• regular review visits 

Some initial discomfort is normal but usually mild and short‑lived.

How Children and Teens Actually Respond

Parents are often surprised to find that:
• children adapt within days 
• teens often feel proud of their braces 
• braces are socially common 
• confidence improves even during treatment 

Over 30 Years of Orthodontic Care at Gentle Dental

At Gentle Dental, braces are not new to us. For more than three decades, we have cared for children, teens, and adults through orthodontic treatment, often treating several generations within the same family.

The Role Parents Play

Parents play an important role by:
• staying calm and encouraging 
• supporting good cleaning habits 
• focusing on long‑term benefits 

The Outcomes Can Be Remarkable

Orthodontic treatment can lead to:
• improved confidence 
• healthier gums 
• better bite and chewing 
• long‑lasting results 

Final Thoughts

Braces for children and teens are not something to fear. With the right timing and experienced care, the journey is often smoother and more rewarding than expected.

At Gentle Dental, with over 30 years of experience providing braces for children, teens, and adults, we focus on gentle, thoughtful care and long‑term health.