The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have a first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. By that point, enough adult teeth have erupted that an orthodontist can see how the bite is developing and catch problems that are easier to correct early than later. Most kids do not need treatment at seven. The visit is a baseline check so we know what to watch.
At Blackburn & Williams Orthodontics, the first orthodontic exam for kids is always complimentary, with no obligation. If everything looks good, we put your child on our growth observation list and check back every six to twelve months until the right time to start treatment. If something needs attention, we will explain it in plain language and walk you through your options.
Two phases of orthodontic treatment for kids
Phase 1: Early interceptive treatment (ages 7 to 10)
Phase 1 is for kids whose bite is developing in a way that benefits from early correction. Common Phase 1 issues include severe crowding, crossbite, open bite, narrow upper jaw (palatal expansion), and significant protrusion that puts front teeth at risk in sports or falls.
Phase 1 typically lasts six to twelve months and uses a combination of expanders, partial braces, or simple appliances. The goal is to create room for adult teeth, correct the underlying bite, and reduce the complexity of Phase 2 later. Many Phase 1 kids end up needing much less Phase 2 treatment than they would have without early intervention.
Phase 2: Comprehensive treatment (ages 11 to 14)
Phase 2 is the full braces or Invisalign treatment most parents picture when they think about orthodontics. It typically starts after the last baby teeth fall out and the permanent canines and second molars come in. Phase 2 usually runs 18 to 24 months.
For Phase 2, most of our kids choose between traditional metal braces (often with colored elastic ties they pick themselves) and Invisalign Teen (clear aligners with built-in compliance indicators so parents can see they are being worn).
Invisalign Teen at our office
We are a Top 1% Invisalign provider nationally and a Blue Diamond Provider. Invisalign Teen is designed specifically for adolescents, with built-in compliance indicators, replacement aligners included, and accommodations for teeth that are still erupting. For the right cases, it is a great option for kids who play sports, play wind instruments, or do not want the look of braces.
Common questions parents ask
- Does my child need to be in pain or have an obvious problem to come in? No. The first evaluation at age seven is a baseline, not a treatment kickoff. Most kids leave with no treatment recommended yet.
- Will starting earlier mean more total treatment? Often the opposite. Phase 1 can shorten or simplify Phase 2.
- Does insurance cover this? Most PPO plans cover a portion of orthodontic treatment for kids. We accept all major PPOs and file claims directly.
- What if we cannot afford a lump sum? We offer in-house interest-free payment plans that spread the cost across the treatment period.
- How often will my child come in? Most active treatment patients come in every six to eight weeks for about 20 minutes per visit.
What your child’s first visit looks like
The first visit is about an hour and completely free. We start with a tour of the office so your child feels at ease. We take orthodontic x-rays and photos, then one of our doctors does a thorough exam and walks you both through what they see. If treatment is recommended, our treatment coordinator will explain the timeline, cost, and insurance picture in a no-pressure conversation. If treatment is not needed yet, we put your child on our observation list and you go home.
Schedule your child’s free first visit
Call 281-769-3095 or use our contact form. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Most parents like to schedule kid appointments after school.
Blackburn & Williams Orthodontics is a Smile Doctors-affiliated orthodontic practice led by Dr. James Blackburn, serving Katy, Fulshear, Cinco Ranch, 77494, and 77441 from FM 1463.
