Braces for kids and teens
Give your child the gift of a beautiful, straight smile
Conditions that can be treated early
Severe crowding: insufficient space for permanent teeth to erupt into their proper position
Overbite: protruding upper teeth
Underbite: upper front teeth that fit behind lower front teeth
Crossbite: upper teeth fitting on the inside of lower teeth.
Experienced & Friendly Care for Your Child
Kids and their parents are always commenting on how friendly and fun our office is. Parents also appreciate the knowledge and skill Dr. Yao applies at every step.
Always eager to answer any questions and explain procedures, Dr. Yao considers himself a partner in your quest to create a beautiful and healthy smile for your child.
Dr. Yao is a highly trained and experienced orthodontist. Since beginning to practice orthodontics in 1987, he has completed extensive advanced training and research. He has the know-how to give your child not only a beautiful smile, but also a healthy one.
Healthy smiles for the future
As important as straight teeth for the future happiness of your child, is a bite (the way teeth come together) that works optimally without either grinding teeth down or causing jaw joint problems. Dr. Yao ensures that not only the aesthetics are fully taken care of but also the mechanics of your child’s smile.
Call 408-409-1361 to schedule your free consultation, or click here to schedule online.
When should my child begin with orthodontic treatment?
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that the first orthodontic evaluation should occur at the age of 7. Dr. Yao will do a full examination of your child’s teeth and bite and determine what, if anything, needs to be treated.
If certain conditions are treated before the full adult teeth have emerged your child will have better oral and jaw health and is better set up to achieve the best end result possible, a beautiful, straight smile.
With early orthodontic treatment there is a possibility that your child won’t need to wear braces, although most children will need braces once all their permanent teeth are in. This second phase of treatment is usually shorter and a lot easier as a result of the early intervention.
Most children begin with braces once their adult teeth have fully erupted, generally ages 10-12.
How long does treatment take?
Treatment time depends on the complexity of the case. In general it ranges from 12 to 30 months.
Types of braces
- Metal braces, made from high-grade stainless steel
- Metal braces with a choice of colors
- Clear ceramic braces
- Invisalign Teen
Your child has various options for braces.
Call 408-409-1361 to schedule your free consultation, or click here to schedule online.
Invisalign® Teen — The Clear Alternative to Braces
Dr. Yao showing Invisalign to Gabriela Cordero and her mother.
Invisalign is the modern method of teeth straightening that Dr. Yao can offer to 80% of children who have their permanent teeth. A child can start as young as 11 with Invisalign.
Instead of using braces, Invisalign straightens the teeth through a series of “aligners”—high-grade plastic trays that closely fit over the teeth. Your child changes the aligners every two weeks until the teeth have moved into their final position. Dr. Yao has been able to get high compliance with children following through with treatment through the use of games, awards, the use of a tracker on the aligner and a contract they sign!
As well as being virtually invisible, there are other advantages to Invisalign for your child. Learn more on our Invisalign Teen page.
Trevor Heinzmann with his mother Dawn.
“We love Dr. Yao and his office staff. I’ve had my two older sons go through treatment with Dr. Yao and they both have beautiful smiles. Thanks! The technicians are friendly and the office gals are super! Now my youngest is getting his teeth straightened. I just know they will turn out awesomely.”
- Dawn H.
Gabriela Cordero and mom Suzanne.
"I really like Invisalign® because it didn’t hurt at all! No one noticed that I was wearing it when I would smile since it’s invisible!
"Dr. Yao is comfortable and fun to be around.
"Thank you Dr. Yao for this awesome smile!"
- Gabriela C.
