Braces for kids
in Auckland
If your child needs braces, you’ll want to know they’re in expert hands. Our Specialist Orthodontists use the latest digital techniques to fit metal and ceramic for children across our four Auckland clinics - gently guiding growing teeth into place, with a plan shaped around your child rather than one-size-fits-all.
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Why braces
for children?
As a parent, you might be wondering whether your child really needs braces - and what they’ll be like to live with. Braces gently and predictably guide teeth into a healthier position, easing crowding, closing gaps and correcting the bite. Straighter teeth are also easier for your child to keep clean, which supports their long-term dental health.
Because your child is still growing, it’s a good time to guide the teeth and jaws together. If they haven’t had a first check-up yet, our early orthodontic treatment page explains when to start - and for older children, clear aligners may be an alternative worth discussing.
The types of braces we offer
Not every child needs the same braces. At your consultation we’ll talk through the options and recommend the one that best suits your child’s teeth, their bite and how they feel about the way braces look.
All three options are designed and monitored by a Specialist Orthodontist, so your child’s treatment is planned carefully from the very first appointment.
Metal braces
Strong, reliable stainless-steel brackets and wires. They’re effective across a wide range of cases and often the most affordable option - and children can choose coloured bands to make them their own.
Ceramic braces
Tooth-coloured brackets that blend in with the teeth, so they’re far less noticeable than metal. A popular choice for children who feel a little self-conscious about wearing braces.
Clarity™ indirect bonding
Rather than positioning each bracket individually on the teeth, we use a digital 3D model of your smile to carefully plan the ideal position of every bracket. These brackets are then transferred onto the teeth using a custom-made tray, allowing multiple brackets to be placed accurately at the same time. A much more pleasant experience!
What to expect
with braces
Fitting braces is quick and comfortable. After that, your child comes in now and then for adjustments as their teeth move into place. A little care keeps everything on track:
- Brush and floss after meals and floss to keep the brackets and teeth clean
- Avoid very hard, sticky or chewy foods that can damage braces
- Wear a mouthguard for contact sport
- Keep regular adjustment appointments
Where it suits your child, Dental Monitoring lets our team review progress from scans taken at home, which can mean fewer trips into the practice between adjustments.
Braces for kids FAQs
Most children are ready for braces once enough adult teeth have come through, often somewhere between about 10 and 14 - but there’s no fixed age. One of our Specialist Orthodontists will assess your child and recommend the right time, which is sometimes earlier as part of early treatment.
Having braces fitted doesn’t hurt. Your child may feel some tightness or tenderness for a few days after they’re placed or adjusted, which usually settles with soft foods and, if needed, ordinary pain relief.
Treatment time varies with each child’s teeth and bite. Many courses run somewhere between about 12 and 24 months. Your specialist orthodontist will give you an estimate of treatment duration after assessing your child’s teeth and bite.
Metal braces use stainless-steel brackets and are strong, reliable and often the most affordable - many children enjoy choosing coloured bands. Ceramic braces use tooth-coloured brackets that blend in, so they’re less noticeable. Your orthodontist will help you choose what suits your child’s teeth and preferences.
Yes. We recommend a mouthguard for contact sport to protect the teeth and braces. Playing a wind instrument may take a short adjustment, but most children adapt quickly.
It’s best to avoid very hard, sticky or chewy foods - such as hard lollies, nuts and chewing gum - that can damage brackets and wires. We’ll give you a simple list and plenty of easy alternatives at the fitting.
The cost depends on the complexity and length of treatment. At Auckland City Orthodontics we offer flexible deposits and interest-free payment plans, and you’ll receive a clear, personalised quote at your consultation. See our costs page for more.
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Considering braces
for your child?
The best place to start is a chat with one of our Specialist Orthodontists. We’ll assess your child’s teeth and bite, explain the options clearly and recommend the braces best suited to them. Our Specialist Orthodontists have a particular passion for treating younger children. You can visit any of our four Auckland clinics or start with a virtual consultation.
BOOK A CONSULTATION*Terms and conditions apply. Some consultations - including some for children under 12, referrals, transfers and second opinions - attract a $250 fee.