Braces for Kids & Teens in Silver Spring, MD

A healthy, confident smile can make a real difference for a growing child. At Tran Orthodontics, Dr. Tuan Tran helps children and teenagers from Silver Spring, Wheaton, Gaithersburg and across Montgomery County get straighter teeth and better bites, with braces or Invisalign Teen. It all starts with a free consultation.

When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child get an orthodontic checkup by age 7. By then the first adult molars have usually come in, and an orthodontist can check how the front and back teeth fit together. Early signs of crowding, overbite, open bite or crossbite are often visible at this age.

 

Most 7-year-olds don't need braces yet. A checkup simply means problems get caught early. If treatment isn't needed now, Dr. Tran will monitor your child's growth and recommend the best time to begin.

Early (Phase I) Treatment for Children

Some problems are easier to correct while the jaw is still growing. Early, or "interceptive," treatment can help:

• Make room for crowded adult teeth coming in

• Guide jaw growth for better facial balance

• Protect protruding front teeth from injury

• Hold space for adult teeth that haven't come in yet

• Reduce the chance of needing tooth removal later

• Shorten later treatment with braces

Read more on our Early Treatment page.

Braces for Teens

The teen years are the most common time to straighten teeth, and teenagers make up the largest share of our active patients. By early adolescence most permanent teeth have come in and the body is still growing quickly, so many problems can be corrected efficiently. Orthodontic problems generally don't fix themselves with age and often get worse as the teeth develop.

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Treatment options for teens include:

• Metal braces. For most teens these are the most effective and affordable choice.

• Clear (ceramic) braces. These are less noticeable and suit some cases.

• Invisalign Teen. These are removable clear aligners for teens who qualify. Dr. Tran is a certified Invisalign Teen provider.

See Adolescent Treatment for more.

Signs Your Child May Need Braces

• Crowded, overlapping or crooked teeth

• Large gaps between teeth

• Upper front teeth that stick out (overbite)

• Lower teeth in front of the upper teeth (underbite or crossbite)

• Front teeth that don't touch when biting (open bite)

• Losing baby teeth very early or very late

• Thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting habits that continue past about age 5

What to Expect at Your Child's Free Consultation

Your child's first visit is free, with no obligation. Dr. Tran will examine your child's teeth and bite, explain what he sees in plain language, and tell you whether now is the right time to begin. If treatment is recommended, you'll get a written summary, a treatment plan and estimated fees. Parents and kids are both encouraged to ask questions.

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We offer 0% interest payment plans, and many insurance plans include an orthodontic benefit for children under 19. We'll review your coverage and file your claims for you. Learn more about the cost of braces.

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New-patient offer: $500 off braces or Invisalign for new patients when you mention it at the first consultation. It can't be combined with other offers and expires 12/31/2026. Details.

Three Offices Close to Home

• Silver Spring (Colesville): 13106 New Hampshire Ave., Silver Spring, MD 20904

• Wheaton: 11301 Amherst Ave., Suite 101, Wheaton, MD 20902

• Gaithersburg: 312 S. Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg, MD 20877

Call 301-949-6020 or text us at 301-327-1336. Hablamos español. Ask for María.

Parents' Questions

How long will my child wear braces?
Most treatment takes about 1 to 2 years, depending on the problem. Kids and teens often finish faster than adults because their teeth and jaws are still groing.

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Can my teen get Invisalign instead of braces?
Sometimes. Invisalign Teen works well for some teens, but traditional braces are still the best fit for most. Dr. Tran will tell you which option suits your teen.

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What happens after braces come off?
Your child will wear retainers to keep the teeth from shifting back. Most cases need at least 24 months of retainer wear.