Home / Treatment Options / Children's Orthodontics
Children's Orthodontics in San Antonio
Early treatment is about timing, not hurry. Sometimes the right answer is an appliance now. Often it is a note in the diary to look again in a year.
When should a child first see an orthodontist?
Around age seven is the usual guidance, not because most seven-year-olds need braces, but because that is when enough permanent teeth are in for an orthodontist to see how the jaw is developing.
At that first free visit Dr. Cochran does a growth and development evaluation and a bite assessment. Most children leave with nothing but a recall appointment. That is a good outcome and we say so plainly.
"Came here for a second opinion and so glad we did! Doctor told us the procedure a previous orthodontist suggested my child have was not necessary."
L R, Google review
What early treatment can involve
Interceptive (Phase 1) treatment
A short, targeted course while the jaw is still growing, to make the permanent teeth an easier problem later.
Palatal expanders
Widening a narrow upper jaw so the adult teeth have somewhere to go, and so breathing has more room.
Space maintainers
Holding the gap when a baby tooth is lost early, so neighbouring teeth do not drift into it.
Corrective appliances
Habit and bite appliances chosen for the specific problem, not applied by default.
Book your free consultation
Tell us how to reach you and our team will call to find a time that works. New patient requests only.
Prefer to talk now? Call (210) 714-5525.
Common questions
Does my child need braces at seven?
Usually not. The point of an evaluation at that age is to catch the small number of problems that are much easier to fix while the jaw is growing. Most children are simply monitored.
Is the first visit really free?
Yes. Exam, digital scan and X-ray are included at no charge, at either office.
Will my child need braces again later?
Some children who have Phase 1 treatment also have a shorter Phase 2 course as teenagers. Dr. Cochran will be clear about that possibility up front rather than after you have paid for Phase 1.
What if we already saw another orthodontist?
Second opinions are welcome and we give them honestly, including telling you that treatment already recommended elsewhere may not be necessary.
Ready to start? Your consultation is free.
Exam, digital scan and X-ray at no cost, at either San Antonio office. You will leave knowing your options and what treatment would cost.