Kids Orthodontist in Jacksonville Beach

Giving kids the confidence of a beautiful smile starts with expert, compassionate orthodontic care at Lazzara Orthodontics. Our specialized pediatric treatments are designed to make children feel comfortable and excited about their orthodontic journey. Trust our experienced team to provide gentle, personalized care that helps your child’s smile shine bright.

Navigating the world of pediatric orthodontic care can feel overwhelming for parents seeking the best treatment options for their children. Understanding when to schedule that first orthodontic visit, recognizing early warning signs of alignment issues, and choosing between traditional braces and clear aligners are just a few of the crucial decisions parents face when considering orthodontic treatment for their children.

At Lazzara Orthodontics, our Jax Beach orthodontist provides comprehensive care specifically tailored to children and teens in the area. Dr. Lazzara earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at the LSU School of Dentistry in 1996, and after completing dental school, he enrolled at the Center for Advanced Dental Education at St. Louis University, where he completed a 30-month residency program in Orthodontics and earned his Master of Science degree.

When Should My Child First See an Orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists advises that children should have their first orthodontic evaluation by the time they are seven. This age is ideal because:

Children have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth, allowing orthodontists to identify potential problems
Jaw growth is still occurring, making certain treatments more effective
Early intervention can prevent more serious problems from developing
Some issues can be addressed while the face and jaws are still growing
Not all children will need immediate treatment, but an evaluation creates a baseline

Early evaluation doesn’t mean your child will need braces right away. In many cases, Dr. Lazzara may simply monitor your child’s development and recommend treatment at the optimal time. This approach allows us to deliver the most effective treatment, which will provide maximum benefit.

Signs Your Child May Need Orthodontic Treatment

As a parent, you might notice certain signs indicating your child could benefit from orthodontic care. Being aware of these indicators helps you seek timely intervention.

Physical Signs

Watch for physical indicators such as:

Crowded or misaligned teeth
Early or late loss of baby teeth
Difficulty chewing or biting
Mouth breathing
Teeth that don’t meet properly when biting
Jaws that shift, make sounds, or appear asymmetrical

Sometimes, behavioral signs may also signal orthodontic issues:

Thumb or finger sucking beyond age five
Biting the cheek or the roof of the mouth
Speech difficulties
Facial asymmetry or disproportionate facial features

If you notice any of these signs, scheduling a consultation can help determine if and when orthodontic treatment might be beneficial for your child.

Looking for Orthodontic Treatment Near Jax Beach?

Trust your smile to our team with years of advanced orthodontic training.

Orthodontic Treatment Options for Children

At Lazzara Orthodontics, we offer several orthodontic treatment options specifically designed for children and teens.

Traditional Braces

Traditional metal braces remain one of the most effective options for complex alignment issues. Modern braces are smaller and more comfortable than ever before. They work by applying gentle, consistent pressure to move teeth into their proper positions over time.

Clear Aligners

For teens who may be concerned about appearance, we offer both Invisalign and Clarity clear aligners. These nearly invisible treatment options are removable for eating and brushing, making them a convenient choice for many active teens. Clear aligners are typically worn for 18-20 hours per day for optimal results.

Early Intervention Options

Some children benefit from early intervention treatments such as:

Space maintainers to preserve room for permanent teeth
Palatal expanders to widen the upper jaw
Habit-breaking appliances to address thumb sucking or tongue thrusting

Each treatment plan is customized to address your child’s specific needs and development stage. During your consultation, Dr. Lazzara will thoroughly explain all suitable options.

The Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment

Starting orthodontic treatment at the right time offers numerous advantages for your child:

Health Benefits

Early orthodontic intervention provides significant health benefits, including:

Improved dental hygiene by making teeth easier to clean
Reduced risk of tooth decay and gum disease
Proper jaw development and function
Prevention of excessive wear on tooth enamel
Decreased likelihood of dental injuries

These health benefits extend well beyond childhood, contributing to better oral health throughout life.

Schedule Your Child's Orthodontic Consultation

The journey to a beautiful, healthy smile begins with a comprehensive evaluation. At Lazzara Orthodontics, we provide personalized care for children of all ages in Jacksonville Beach. Dr. Lazzara’s extensive training and experience in orthodontics ensure your child receives the highest quality care in a warm, welcoming environment.

We understand that each child is unique, which is why we take the time to develop customized treatment plans that address individual needs. Our team is committed to making the orthodontic experience positive and stress-free for both children and parents. Schedule your child’s orthodontic evaluation today!

Meet Your Jacksonville Orthodontists

Visit Our Jax Beach Office

We’re conveniently located in Jacksonville Beach, FL, at 436 Jacksonville Drive, just minutes from the ocean. Enjoy our modern, comfortable office with ample parking available, and easy access from throughout Jacksonville Beach, Ponte Vedra Beach, and Neptune Beach for a stress-free orthodontic visit.