Orthodontics for Growing Smiles
Orthodontic care for children and adolescents, including early/interceptive orthodontics, traditional braces, and CandidPro clear aligners.
Your Smile Is Already Beautiful
We tell our patients something we truly believe: you already have a beautiful smile.
Sometimes, though, you may want us to fine-tune it a little bit. Orthodontic treatment can help improve the alignment of the teeth and bite while helping your child feel confident about their smile.
Growing Smiles Need the Right Timing
As your child grows, so does their smile. An orthodontic evaluation allows Dr. Pate and Dr. Long to keep an eye on how the teeth are coming in and how everything is fitting together.
Some children may benefit from treatment while they’re still growing, while others may simply need to be monitored until the time is right. The important part is knowing what your child’s smile needs and when.
If we notice something that may need attention, we’ll explain what we’re seeing and talk with you about the best time to address it.
Evaluating Your Child’s Growing Smile
Every child’s smile develops differently. During regular visits and orthodontic evaluations, Dr. Pate and Dr. Long monitor the teeth, bite and jaw development to identify concerns at the right time.
We look for things such as crowded teeth, spacing, crossbites, overbites, underbites, and teeth that may not be coming in as expected. We also watch how the jaws are growing and whether there is enough space for developing permanent teeth.
Parents are an important part of this process, too. If you notice something about your child’s smile or bite that concerns you, we encourage you to talk with us about it. We’ll evaluate the concern, explain what we’re seeing, and discuss whether treatment may be beneficial or if continued monitoring is appropriate.
Traditional Braces
Traditional braces are an excellent option for many children and teens. They allow for precise tooth movement and can be used to treat a wide variety of orthodontic concerns.
When braces are the right choice for your child, we’ll create a treatment plan based on their individual smile, bite and development. Throughout treatment, we’ll monitor their progress and keep you informed about what to expect along the way.
CandidPro Clear Aligners
For children and teens who are appropriate candidates, CandidPro clear aligners offer a more discreet and removable alternative to traditional braces.
Clear aligners gradually guide the teeth into their planned positions while offering the convenience of being removable for eating, brushing and flossing.
During your child’s evaluation, we’ll discuss whether CandidPro clear aligners or traditional braces would be the more appropriate option for their individual needs.
Finishing Your Orthodontic Journey
When active orthodontic treatment is complete, patients receive retainers to help protect their new smile and maintain their beautifully aligned teeth.
There’s one more reason to smile! Every orthodontic patient receives complimentary bleaching gel at the completion of treatment—our finishing touch to help make that new smile shine.
Our Kokomo Office
Pediatric Dental Specialists of Indiana, P.C.
2705 S Berkley, Suite 2B
Kokomo, IN 46902
Phone: 765-453-2267 · Hours: Monday–Thursday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM