When Should My Child Get Braces? | Orthodontist Richmond, VA

September 1, 2022

Braces can help create a straight, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. Ideally, any corrections to the bite, jaw, or mouth structure should be performed during adolescence while the mouth is still forming. Here’s what our Richmond orthodontics team wants you to know before your child begins treatment with braces.

Why Get Braces?

Braces are used to correct improper bites. If you child has an overbite or underbite, braces may be recommended along with another orthodontic appliance to shift the jaw. Additionally, braces are used to correct gaps between teeth as well as teeth that are growing in a crooked position.

The Importance of Starting Early

Braces are more effective in younger patients because the jaw structure is still malleable. According to the American Dental Association, the majority of orthodontic treatment cases typically begin between the ages of 8 and 14. Your child’s particular course of treatment is going to be dependent on a number of factors including mouth structure and the progress of erupting adult teeth. 

Braces Can Improve Your Child’s Life

It may be difficult for your child to imagine an extended period of time without being able to eat sticky, gummy foods or chew bubblegum, however there are numerous benefits to your child’s overall health and well-being that can be achieved with braces. By straightening teeth and closing gaps, your child’s gum health will be improved. Braces can prevent dental complications later in life such as the need for more advanced corrective procedures. Your child’s confidence will also be boosted once they see the results of a straight, beautiful smile.

We invite you and your child to discuss the benefits of having braces with our team. During your appointment, our orthodontist in Richmond, VA, will provide a complete examination and make a recommendation for a treatment plan that will work best for your child. 

To schedule your child’s next visit to our orthodontics office in Short Pump, VA, please contact our friendly team.

 

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Our 5-Star Experience

Check out what our patients are saying about their 5-star experience with our amazing team!

Our 5-Star Experience
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Tasha Nabi
10 September 2026
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Very professional kind and courteous. Love the results.
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Somaya Musawer
10 September 2026
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They helped me straighten my lower teeth, and helped me whiten it more than it was before. I personally would recommend this place and I loved the braces I have and my power chains. They don’t tighten it that much and it’s a perfect amount to eat and it doesn’t hurt. Thank you so much!
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Lindsay Blackman
10 September 2026
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Front desk was very professional and polite. Ari did a great job!
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Carrie Thornton
10 September 2026
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Great experience! Wouldn’t trust anyone else for braces! 2 of kids have been here and the experience is always professional and great!
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tyrone trapnell
9 September 2026
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We always have a wonderful experience with Sheila. She gets my son all fixed up and good to go until his next visit. She is kind and attentive.
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Susan LeClair
9 September 2026
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Mandy is amazing!!!! Best ever
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Johana Castillo
9 September 2026
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They do a excellent job ! I feel welcome every time with Lisa at the front desk :) and Mandy is very nice on every visit I have !
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Short Stacked Minis
9 September 2026
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Every time we come it’s always a great experience. The staff are all great and make our daughter comfortable with every visit. She even got a free squishy this visit .. that was a big deal for her!
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Nicole Erika
9 September 2026
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Best person here, Lisa
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Brandy Scott Lee
8 September 2026
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Great customer service! They were awesome.
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Where To Find Us

If you’re ready for a smile that makes you more confident, then you’ve found the right team here at Horsey Orthodontics!

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Monday 8:00am – 4:30pm
Tuesday 8:00am – 4:30pm
Wednesday 8:00am – 4:30pm
Thursday 8:00am – 4:30pm
Friday 9:00am – 2:00pm