Braces For Kids

Braces for Kids

A Parent's Guide to Braces for Kids

Maybe you’re wondering if your child needs braces. Or maybe their dentist has recommended that you see an orthodontist. We know how daunting it can be to understand and afford orthodontic treatment. We’re here to guide you through it.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about braces for kids. Our staff is also here six days a week to answer any questions you might have, so feel free to call and schedule a FREE orthodontic evaluation.

Signs Your Child Might Need Braces

It’s not always easy to know when your child needs braces. However, some common signs could indicate a need for orthodontic treatment. If your child has crowded or overlapping teeth, it may indicate that there isn’t enough space in their mouth for all their teeth to fit properly. Children who struggle with biting or chewing food might also need braces to improve their bite alignment. Lastly, if your child frequently sucks their thumb, it can cause misalignment of the teeth, making braces necessary.

Of course, these are just a few signs to look out for.

If you’re unsure, consulting our Board-Certified Orthodontist, Dr. Hao, is a great first step. If you have a pre-teen or teen, you can also explore invisible braces by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Zayzafoon. Either one of our top providers can give your child a comprehensive evaluation and help you understand if braces are needed.

Types of Braces for Kids

There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to braces. Different types of braces offer unique benefits, and you want to weigh each one’s pros and cons before making a decision.


Traditional metal braces are the most common and are highly effective at treating complex dental issues. They’re durable and tend to be the most affordable option. They are also the go-to for kids and pre-teens because they’re low maintenance outside of avoiding certain foods and maintaining good oral hygiene.
Ceramic braces work similarly to metal braces but are less noticeable because they blend with the natural color of teeth. However, they are slightly more fragile and costly.


For those seeking a more modern approach, invisible braces offer nearly invisible aligners that can be removed for eating and cleaning. Invisible braces require discipline since they must be worn for 20-22 hours daily to be effective. That’s why they’re only appropriate for older and more mature children and teens.
Each type has advantages and disadvantages, so it’s crucial to consider your child’s specific needs and lifestyle when deciding.

Why Choose ABC Dental Chicago

NO HIDDEN COST INCREASES

Many providers raise the cost as your treatment progresses and unanticipated issues are discovered.  Once you accept treatment, the price is locked in.

CUSTOMIZED TREATMENT AND OPTIONS

With both clear aligners and standard metal braces available, we are able to help with even the most severe teeth and jaw alignments.

FLEXIBLE HOURS AND PAYMENT PLANS

With evening and weekend hours available, we’re able to offer appointment times that work for your schedule.  We also have a variety of payment plan options available.

Kids Orthodontists Chicago

Invisible Braces

Clear aligners can be a great option for more mature adolescents and teens.  Clear aligners can offer surprisingly quick results with a relatively simple process:
    1. Come into our office every 1 to 2 weeks to get a new series of trays.
    2. Make sure your child wears their aligners for 20-22 hours a day. 
    3. Make sure your child removes their aligners when they eat or drink.
    4. Watch as your child’s teeth gently shift into place.
Every new set of clear aligners will get your child closer to their new smile.  Clear aligners are an easy and nearly invisible orthodontic treatment.

Schedule a FREE INITIAL ORTHODONTIC CONSULTATION by calling 773-481-2200.

Traditional Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces have been around for decades, straightening smiles and correcting bite issues. If you had braces when you were an adolescent or teen, they were most likely traditional metal.

Metal braces are the go-to orthodontic treatment for younger kids or kids who don’t want to be bothered taking clear aligners in and out. They are most appropriate for correcting severe misalignments. They are also the most affordable orthodontic option if cost is a primary concern.

We are proud to have a Board-Certified orthodontist, Dr. Hao, in our practice. Dr. Hao has fixed thousands of smiles and has additional years of rigorous training, hence board certification. His expertise and experience surpass any regular dentist who also “does braces.”

Schedule a FREE INITIAL ORTHODONTIC CONSULTATION by calling 773-481-2200.

Chicago Kids Orthodontist

How It Works

FREE CONSULTATION

Get a Free Consultation with our Invisalign Provider or Board Certified Orthodontist.

START TREATMENT

Many times you can start treatment the same day, with a locked in price that does not have any hidden fees or upcharges.

UNCOVER YOUR NEW SMILE

Get a new smile starting anywhere from 3 – 18 months (depending on your case).

Schedule a Free Consultation

Schedule Now 773-481-2200.

Braces FAQs

How Much Do Braces Cost?

The cost varies depending on the current state of your teeth and the type of braces you choose, with prices starting around $198/month.   Our dentist will evaluate your teeth and make the best recommendations for your case and give you a very competitive cost.  We’re here to work with you.  

What Types of Braces Do We Offer?

We offer invisible braces (clear aligners) and traditional metal braces.  We are a top braces provider and have a Board-Certified Orthodontist, so we can handle every case from the simplest to the most complex.

What are the Types of Braces?

Metal braces (traditional braces): These are the braces that come to mind traditionally. They are made up of metal wires and brackets, smaller then earlier metal versions. More recently, the metal wires can be activated by your body’s heat thereby moving the teeth faster and with less pain than in the past. The metal braces are the most affordable braces. Most parents opt for metal braces because they get the job done for the least amount of investment.

Ceramic braces:  Ceramic braces use the same bracket and wire structure of metal braces, except they’re made of ceramic in clear of colors that match the teeth, thereby seeming almost invisible. These braces are more expensive than traditional metal braces, but like metal braces move the teeth faster than the Invisalign option. The only downside of the ceramic braces are that they can get discolored if they’re not cared for properly.

Lingual braces:
Lingual braces are essentially metal braces placed behind the teeth. The benefit of these braces is that they are practically invisible. The downside is that they can be more uncomfortable than the front adhered
braces, more expensive, and more difficult to align. Lingual braces are not appropriate for severe cases.

Invisible Braces:Sometimes called “clear braces,” invisible braces are the least intrusive, but most costly ‘braces’ option. It consists of a range (usually 18-30) custom plastic aligners that are replaced every two weeks. Invisible braces allow wearers to eat and drink whatever they want, and they’re nearly
invisible. They are the most expensive option and not appropriate for severe cases. While invisible braces can take longer to achieve results in some cases, many of our patients swear by them.

How Long Do I Need to Wear Braces?

On average patients wear braces for 18-24 months. Your doctor will advise you on the expected time for your individual case, which takes into account your individual situation and the braces you select.

Our Location

We’re open 6 days a week with office hours up until 7 pm on some days.

Monday 10 am – 7 pm
Tuesday 11 am – 7 pm
Wednesday 11 am – 7 pm
Thursday

10 am – 5 pm

Friday 11 am – 7 pm
Saturday 9 am – 4 pm
Sunday Closed

Call 773-481-2200

Or Schedule Online Here