Orthodontics for Children in Columbus, OH
Your child’s smile is constantly changing as they grow. At Wade Orthodontics, Dr. Andrew B. Wade, DDS, MS, provides orthodontics for children designed to support healthy dental development, proper jaw growth, and long-term oral health. Through early evaluations and personalized care, we help families throughout Columbus, Upper Arlington, Dublin, Hilliard, Grandview, Galloway, and surrounding Central Ohio communities understand their child’s needs and make informed decisions.
Not every child will need early treatment, but every child can benefit from a professional orthodontic evaluation. Identifying concerns early allows Dr. Wade to monitor growth patterns, recognize potential problems, and recommend care at the right time when necessary. Parents who bring their children in for an early evaluation consistently tell us how much more confident and informed they feel about their child’s dental future after that first visit.
When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. At this age, many children have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth, making it an ideal time to assess how the teeth and jaws are developing.A first visit does not always lead to immediate treatment. In many cases, Dr. Wade monitors development and tracks changes as adult teeth continue to emerge. During your child’s first evaluation, we assess:
- Jaw growth and bite alignment
- Eruption patterns of permanent teeth
- Crowded teeth and spacing concerns
- Oral habits such as thumb sucking and mouth breathing
- Signs of jaw growth differences affecting facial development
- Overall oral health and dental development
Common Childhood Orthodontic Problems
Many orthodontic concerns begin developing during childhood. Early monitoring allows Dr. Wade to identify issues while growth and development are still occurring. Some of the most common childhood orthodontic concerns include:
Crowded Teeth
When there is insufficient space in the jaw for incoming permanent teeth, crowding can occur. Crowded teeth may make brushing and flossing more difficult and can affect long-term oral health if left unaddressed.
Bite Alignment Concerns
Problems involving how the upper and lower teeth fit together may affect chewing, speech, and comfort. Bite alignment concerns can range from mild to more significant orthodontic issues depending on the child's growth patterns.
Open Bite
An open bite occurs when the upper and lower front teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed. Thumb sucking, tongue habits, and growth patterns can all contribute to this condition.
Jaw Growth Differences
Some children experience uneven jaw growth that may affect facial development, tooth eruption, and overall function. Early attention can help guide development during key growth years before concerns become more difficult to address.
Oral Habits
Thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, and mouth breathing may influence a child's dental development and contribute to orthodontic problems if they continue for an extended period. Early identification allows Dr. Wade to determine whether treatment or continued observation is the most appropriate next step.
Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment
Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment, sometimes called interceptive orthodontics, focuses on addressing specific developmental concerns while a child is still growing. The goal is to create a healthier environment for future dental development and support proper jaw growth. Treatment may be recommended when orthodontic concerns have the potential to become more difficult to correct later.Depending on your child’s needs, Phase 1 treatment may:
- Guide jaw growth and development
- Improve bite alignment
- Create space for incoming permanent teeth
- Reduce severe crowding
- Address oral habits affecting development
- Support the healthy eruption of adult teeth
- Improve overall function and comfort
Treatment Options for Growing Smiles
Every child has unique orthodontic needs. Dr. Wade develops personalized treatment plans based on your child’s age, growth stage, and specific concerns. Treatment options may include:
- Observation and growth monitoring — many children benefit from periodic check-ins without immediate treatment
- Palatal expanders — used to widen the upper jaw and create space for incoming permanent teeth
- Space maintainers — help preserve spacing after early loss of a baby tooth
- Partial braces or limited early treatment — address specific concerns before comprehensive treatment begins
- Invisalign Teen — a clear aligner option for teens who are candidates for removable treatment
- LightForce brackets — a fully customized 3D-printed bracket system for patients who want the most personalized bracket option available
- Comprehensive treatment — full braces or clear aligners at the appropriate stage of development
A Comfortable and Positive Experience for Children
We understand that visiting an orthodontist may feel unfamiliar for some children. Our team is committed to creating a welcoming, supportive environment where young patients feel comfortable and confident. From the first visit through every stage of care, we focus on communication, education, and encouragement. We take time to answer questions, explain recommendations, and help both children and parents understand what to expect at every step.
Personalized Orthodontic Care in Columbus, Ohio
As a third-generation orthodontic practice, Wade Orthodontics is proud to help children throughout Columbus, Upper Arlington, Dublin, Hilliard, Grandview, Galloway, and surrounding Central Ohio communities achieve healthy, confident smiles. Dr. Wade believes in caring for a person, not simply moving teeth. Every recommendation is based on your child's individual needs, growth patterns, and long-term oral health goals. Whether your child requires treatment now or simply needs periodic monitoring, our team is here to guide your family every step of the way.
Schedule Your Child's Complimentary Orthodontic Evaluation in Columbus, Ohio
If your child is ready for their first evaluation or you have questions about their dental development, we invite you to visit Wade Orthodontics. Dr. Wade and our team are committed to helping families understand their options and feel confident throughout every stage of care. Whether treatment is needed now or later, we are here to provide guidance, support, and personalized recommendations designed around your child's needs.We serve families throughout Columbus, Upper Arlington, Dublin, Hilliard, Grandview, Galloway, and surrounding Central Ohio communities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics for Children
What is the ideal age for a child's first orthodontic evaluation?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first evaluation around age seven. At this age, Dr. Wade can assess jaw growth, tooth eruption patterns, and bite development to identify any concerns early and determine the most appropriate next steps for your child.
Does every child need early orthodontic treatment?
No. Many children only require observation and periodic monitoring rather than immediate treatment. An evaluation helps Dr. Wade determine whether treatment is necessary now, whether watchful waiting is more appropriate, or whether a follow-up visit at a later stage of development would be most beneficial.
Is the first orthodontic evaluation complimentary at Wade Orthodontics?
Yes. Wade Orthodontics offers complimentary orthodontic evaluations for new patients. During your child’s visit, Dr. Wade will perform a comprehensive assessment, discuss any concerns, and explain all available options. If treatment is recommended, our team will review costs, insurance benefits, and payment plans so your family can make a fully informed decision.
Can thumb sucking affect my child's teeth?
Yes. Prolonged thumb sucking may contribute to bite alignment concerns, open bite development, and other orthodontic problems. If your child has this habit and you are concerned about its effect on their dental development, an evaluation at Wade Orthodontics can help determine whether any attention is needed.
How much does orthodontic treatment for children cost in Columbus, Ohio?
The cost depends on your child’s individual needs and recommended treatment plan. Because initial evaluations at Wade Orthodontics are complimentary, there is no cost to find out what your child may need. If treatment is recommended, our team will review all associated costs, insurance benefits, and available payment plans during your consultation so your family has a complete picture before making any decisions.
What orthodontic appliances do you use for children at Wade Orthodontics?
Depending on your child’s needs, Dr. Wade may recommend palatal expanders, space maintainers, partial braces, Invisalign Teen, LightForce brackets, or traditional metal braces. iTero digital impressions may also be used to help plan treatment with greater accuracy and comfort. Every recommendation is based on your child’s age, growth stage, and specific orthodontic concerns.
A Comfortable and Positive Experience for Children
We understand that visiting an orthodontist may feel unfamiliar for some children. Our team is committed to creating a welcoming, supportive environment where young patients feel comfortable and confident. From the first visit through every stage of care, we focus on communication, education, and encouragement. We take time to answer questions, explain recommendations, and help both children and parents understand what to expect at every step.
Personalized Orthodontic Care in Columbus, Ohio
As a third-generation orthodontic practice, Wade Orthodontics is proud to help children throughout Columbus, Upper Arlington, Dublin, Hilliard, Grandview, Galloway, and surrounding Central Ohio communities achieve healthy, confident smiles. Dr. Wade believes in caring for a person, not simply moving teeth. Every recommendation is based on your child’s individual needs, growth patterns, and long-term oral health goals. Whether your child requires treatment now or simply needs periodic monitoring, our team is here to guide your family every step of the way.
Schedule Your Child's Complimentary Orthodontic Evaluation in Columbus, Ohio
If your child is ready for their first evaluation or you have questions about their dental development, we invite you to visit Wade Orthodontics. Dr. Wade and our team are committed to helping families understand their options and feel confident throughout every stage of care. Whether treatment is needed now or later, we are here to provide guidance, support, and personalized recommendations designed around your child’s needs.
We serve families throughout Columbus, Upper Arlington, Dublin, Hilliard, Grandview, Galloway, and surrounding Central Ohio communities.
Call or request an appointment at wadeorthodontics.com/contact-us today to schedule your child’s complimentary orthodontic evaluation and take the first step toward a healthy, confident smile.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics for Children
What is the ideal age for a child's first orthodontic evaluation?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first evaluation around age seven. At this age, Dr. Wade can assess jaw growth, tooth eruption patterns, and bite development to identify any concerns early and determine the most appropriate next steps for your child.
Does every child need early orthodontic treatment?
No. Many children only require observation and periodic monitoring rather than immediate treatment. An evaluation helps Dr. Wade determine whether treatment is necessary now, whether watchful waiting is more appropriate, or whether a follow-up visit at a later stage of development would be most beneficial.
Is the first orthodontic evaluation complimentary at Wade Orthodontics?
Yes. Wade Orthodontics offers complimentary orthodontic evaluations for new patients. During your child's visit, Dr. Wade will perform a comprehensive assessment, discuss any concerns, and explain all available options. If treatment is recommended, our team will review costs, insurance benefits, and payment plans so your family can make a fully informed decision.
Can thumb sucking affect my child's teeth?
Yes. Prolonged thumb sucking may contribute to bite alignment concerns, open bite development, and other orthodontic problems. If your child has this habit and you are concerned about its effect on their dental development, an evaluation at Wade Orthodontics can help determine whether any attention is needed.
How much does orthodontic treatment for children cost in Columbus, Ohio?
The cost depends on your child's individual needs and recommended treatment plan. Because initial evaluations at Wade Orthodontics are complimentary, there is no cost to find out what your child may need. If treatment is recommended, our team will review all associated costs, insurance benefits, and available payment plans during your consultation so your family has a complete picture before making any decisions.
What orthodontic appliances do you use for children at Wade Orthodontics?
Depending on your child's needs, Dr. Wade may recommend palatal expanders, space maintainers, partial braces, Invisalign Teen, LightForce brackets, or traditional metal braces. iTero digital impressions may also be used to help plan treatment with greater accuracy and comfort. Every recommendation is based on your child's age, growth stage, and specific orthodontic concerns.
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3404 Riverside Drive
Columbus, OH 43221
Monday-Thursday: 7:30am - 4:00pm
Friday: Office Closed | Phones Available 8:00am – 1:00pm
