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Your Friendly Kids Orthodontist in Sacramento

Finding the right orthodontist for your child matters. You want someone who makes your son or daughter feel comfortable while delivering results that last a lifetime. Here in the Sacramento area, families from Elk Grove to Roseville to Folsom trust Sunrise Orthodontics for their children’s orthodontic care.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This might seem early, but there’s good reason. At this age, your child has a mix of baby and permanent teeth. Dr. Matthew Sanders, DDS, MS can spot potential problems and determine the best time to start treatment.

On this page, you’ll learn what pediatric orthodontics involves, when your child should visit, and what treatment options work best for kids. We’ll also cover costs, what to expect during treatment, and answer the questions Sacramento parents ask most often.

What Is Pediatric Orthodontics?

Pediatric orthodontics is specialized dental care focused on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting teeth and jaw alignment problems in children. While your family dentist handles cavities, cleanings, and overall oral health, orthodontists complete additional years of specialized training focused specifically on how teeth fit together and how the jaw develops.

Children’s orthodontic treatment often follows a two-phase approach. Phase 1, sometimes called early interceptive treatment, happens around ages 7-10. This phase addresses jaw growth problems and creates space for permanent teeth. Phase 2 typically occurs during the teen years when all permanent teeth have erupted.

Your child’s orthodontist addresses issues like:

  • Crowded or overlapping teeth
  • Gaps between teeth
  • Overbites, underbites, and crossbites
  • Narrow palate affecting breathing
  • Jaw alignment problems

Early evaluation doesn’t always mean early treatment. Sometimes the best plan is to monitor your child’s development and start treatment at the optimal time.

Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment for Children

Starting orthodontic care at the right time offers real advantages for Sacramento kids. Here’s what early intervention can do for your child:

  • Guide jaw growth while bones are still developing and more responsive to treatment
  • Create space for permanent teeth to come in straight, reducing future crowding
  • Protect protruding teeth from injury during sports and play
  • Correct harmful habits like thumb sucking before they cause permanent changes
  • Boost confidence during important social and developmental years
  • Shorten future treatment time by addressing problems before they become complex
  • Lower overall costs compared to waiting until problems worsen

Sacramento-area families often tell us their children feel more confident at school after starting treatment. When kids smile freely, they participate more in class and connect better with friends. That’s a benefit that extends far beyond straight teeth.

The Kids’ Orthodontic Treatment Process: What to Expect

Knowing what comes next helps both you and your child feel prepared. Here’s how treatment works at our Rancho Cordova practice:

Step 1: Initial Consultation

Your child meets Dr. Sanders for a thorough examination. We check tooth alignment, bite patterns, and jaw development. This visit is complimentary and completely pressure-free.

Step 2: Diagnostic Records

We take digital X-rays and photographs. Our iTero Digital Impression System creates a precise 3D model of your child’s teeth without messy putty impressions. Kids actually enjoy watching their teeth appear on screen.

Step 3: Custom Treatment Plan

Dr. Sanders presents your child’s personalized plan. You’ll see exactly what treatment involves, how long it takes, and what results to expect.

Step 4: Appliance Fitting

Whether braces, a palatal expander, or another appliance, we make fitting day fun. Our team explains everything in kid-friendly terms.

Step 5: Regular Adjustments

Your child visits every 4-8 weeks for progress checks and adjustments. Appointments are quick, typically 15-30 minutes.

Step 6: Retention

Once treatment ends, retainers keep teeth in their new positions. This phase is critical for lasting results.

Phase 1 treatment typically lasts 9-18 months. Phase 2 treatment runs 12-24 months depending on complexity. We work with busy Sacramento families to find appointment times that fit school schedules.

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Orthodontic Treatment Options for Sacramento Kids

Not all orthodontic problems need the same solution. At Sunrise Orthodontics, we offer several options tailored to your child’s specific needs:

  • Traditional Metal Braces: The most common choice for children. Today’s metal braces are smaller and more comfortable than ever. They’re highly effective for complex cases and let kids personalize with colored bands.
  • Ceramic Braces: These work like metal braces but use tooth-colored brackets. Great for kids who want a less noticeable option. They require a bit more care to keep clean.
  • Clear Aligners: Removable trays that straighten teeth gradually. Best for older children and teens with mild to moderate alignment issues. Requires responsibility to wear them 20-22 hours daily.
  • Palatal Expanders: These widen a narrow upper jaw to create space and improve breathing. Most effective before age 14 while the palate is still developing.
  • Space Maintainers: When a baby tooth falls out early, these hold space for the permanent tooth. A simple solution that prevents bigger problems later.

Your child’s treatment plan might combine approaches. Dr. Sanders recommends options based on your child’s age, specific issues, and lifestyle.

Cost of Kids’ Orthodontic Treatment in Sacramento

Let’s talk numbers. In the Sacramento area, children’s orthodontic treatment typically ranges from $3,500 to $7,500. Several factors affect where your child falls in that range:

  • Treatment complexity: Simple spacing issues cost less than severe bite problems
  • Treatment duration: Longer treatment means more appointments and adjustments
  • Appliance type: Clear aligners often cost more than traditional braces
  • Phase of treatment: Phase 1 alone costs less than Phase 1 and 2 combined

Most dental insurance plans cover a portion of orthodontic treatment for children. Coverage typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 lifetime maximum. Our team verifies your benefits and helps you maximize coverage.

Cost shouldn’t prevent any Sacramento child from getting needed care. That’s why we offer:

  • Interest-free payment plans
  • Flexible monthly options
  • FSA and HSA acceptance
  • Family discounts for multiple children in treatment

Early treatment often costs less overall. Addressing problems when they’re simpler to fix means shorter treatment time and fewer complications.

When Should Your Child See an Orthodontist?

Age 7 is the magic number for a first orthodontic screening. But you don’t need to wait for a specific birthday. Watch for these signs that your child might benefit from an evaluation:

  • Crowding: Teeth look crooked or overlap
  • Spacing: Large gaps between teeth
  • Bite problems: Upper and lower teeth don’t meet properly
  • Chewing difficulty: Your child avoids certain foods or chews awkwardly
  • Mouth breathing: Breathing through the mouth instead of the nose, especially during sleep
  • Thumb sucking: Continuing past age 4 can affect tooth position
  • Early tooth loss: Baby teeth falling out before age 5
  • Late tooth loss: Baby teeth still present after age 13
  • Protruding teeth: Front teeth stick out noticeably
  • Speech issues: Lisps or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds

If your child shows any of these signs, don’t wait. An early evaluation at Sunrise Orthodontics gives you answers and options. Many Sacramento parents feel relieved just knowing what to expect.

Kids’ Orthodontic Options Compared: Braces vs. Clear Aligners

Parents often ask which option is better for their child. The honest answer: it depends on your child’s specific situation.

Feature Metal Braces Ceramic Braces Clear Aligners
Visibility Most visible Less noticeable Nearly invisible
Effectiveness All case types All case types Mild to moderate cases
Removal Fixed Fixed Removable
Care Required Moderate Higher (staining risk) Must remove for eating
Best Age Any age 10+ 13+ (maturity needed)
Cost $$ $$-$$$ $$$
Treatment Time Standard Standard May be faster for simple cases

Metal braces work best for:

  • Complex bite issues
  • Younger children
  • Kids who might lose removable aligners
  • Cases requiring precise tooth movement

Clear aligners work best for:

  • Responsible teens
  • Mild crowding or spacing
  • Children concerned about appearance
  • Active athletes (no brackets to catch on mouthguards)

Dr. Matthew Sanders, DDS, MS evaluates each child individually. The goal is always the best outcome for your child’s smile and oral health.

Why Sacramento Families Choose Us for Kids’ Orthodontics

Sunrise Orthodontics has served the Sacramento community for years. Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Specialized Expertise: Dr. Sanders completed advanced training specifically in orthodontics. This specialized education means your child receives care from someone who focuses exclusively on straightening teeth and aligning jaws.
  • Kid-Friendly Environment: Our Rancho Cordova practice was designed with children in mind. Bright colors, friendly faces, and a welcoming atmosphere help anxious kids relax. Many of our young patients actually look forward to appointments.
  • Advanced Technology: Our iTero Digital Impression System eliminates uncomfortable putty molds. Digital X-rays reduce radiation exposure. 3D treatment planning shows you and your child exactly what to expect.
  • Convenient Location: Located in Rancho Cordova, we’re easily accessible from Sacramento, Folsom, Elk Grove, and surrounding communities. We offer flexible scheduling including after-school appointments.
  • Free Consultations: Your child’s first visit costs nothing. Every family deserves to understand their options without financial pressure.
  • Community Connection: We sponsor local youth sports teams and participate in Sacramento community events. Your neighbors are our patients, and we take that responsibility seriously.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kids’ Orthodontics in Sacramento

What age should my child first visit an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends age 7 for a first evaluation. At this age, enough permanent teeth have emerged to identify potential problems. Early evaluation doesn’t always mean early treatment. Often, Dr. Sanders monitors development and recommends starting treatment at the optimal time.

How long does orthodontic treatment take for children?

Treatment length varies based on the complexity of your child’s case. Phase 1 early treatment typically takes 9-18 months. Full treatment during the teen years usually lasts 12-24 months. At your consultation, we provide a personalized timeline for your child.

Are braces painful for kids?

Most children experience mild discomfort for a few days after braces go on and following adjustments. This soreness is manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods. Modern braces are more comfortable than older versions. Most kids adapt quickly and forget they’re wearing them.

Can my child still play sports with braces?

Absolutely. We encourage Sacramento kids to stay active. A protective mouthguard is essential for contact sports. We provide custom mouthguards designed to fit comfortably over braces and protect both teeth and brackets.

What foods should my child avoid with braces?

Hard, sticky, and chewy foods can damage braces. Skip popcorn, hard candy, ice, caramel, and gum. Cut apples and carrots into small pieces instead of biting directly. We provide a complete list at your child’s fitting appointment.

How do I help my child care for their braces?

Supervise brushing twice daily, especially around brackets. Flossing takes practice but is essential. We teach proper technique and provide special tools like floss threaders and interdental brushes. Your child should also continue visiting their general dentist for regular cleanings throughout orthodontic treatment.

Does my dental insurance cover orthodontics for kids?

Most dental plans include orthodontic benefits for children under 18. Coverage typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 lifetime maximum. Our Sacramento practice staff verifies your benefits and files claims on your behalf.

What happens if my child loses a bracket or wire?

Call us right away. Loose brackets happen, especially with active kids. We reserve time daily for emergencies and can usually see your child the same day. Keep the bracket if possible and use orthodontic wax for comfort until your appointment.

Schedule Your Child’s Free Orthodontic Consultation in Sacramento

Your child’s best smile starts with a simple first step. Call Sunrise Orthodontics at (916) 635-5717 or schedule a consultation online.

During this complimentary visit, Dr. Sanders examines your child’s teeth and jaw development. You’ll learn whether treatment is needed now or if monitoring makes more sense. There’s no obligation and no pressure.

Our Rancho Cordova practice welcomes families from throughout the Sacramento region. We offer convenient appointment times that work around school schedules.

Early evaluation gives you peace of mind. You’ll know exactly what your child needs and when treatment should begin. Most importantly, you’ll have a partner in creating a healthy, confident smile for your child.

Ready to get started? Sacramento families trust Sunrise Orthodontics for a reason. Let us show you why.