Braces can straighten a child’s crowded or gapped teeth and guide jaw growth while they are still developing. Efros Orthodontics provides this care at our Latham office at 17 Johnson Road. Dr. Robin Lozman has practiced orthodontics in Latham since 1997. This page explains when to start, which braces fit a child’s stage of development, and what local families can expect.
When should a child see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic check by age 7. Adult teeth are starting to arrive by then. We can spot crowding, crossbites, or jaw growth issues while there is still room to guide them.
What an early evaluation involves
We take digital panoramic and cephalometric X-rays and an iTero digital scan. This builds a 3D model of the teeth in minutes without putty impressions. From there we decide whether a child needs treatment now, later, or not at all.
Why age 7 isn’t too early
Some children benefit from early interceptive treatment, such as an expander or space maintainer, to create room for permanent teeth. Others simply need periodic check-ins, at no cost, until they are ready for full braces. We also treat teens and adults.
What signs suggest a child needs braces?
Crowded or overlapping teeth, visible gaps, early or late loss of baby teeth, and jaw clicking are common signs. Mouth breathing, thumb sucking past age 4, and a shifting bite are also worth mentioning at a checkup.
Not every child with these signs needs treatment right away. A short evaluation gives us the information to recommend watching, early intervention, or full braces.
Which type of braces fits a child’s needs?
Many children do well with either traditional metal braces or ceramic braces. The right choice depends on the case and the child’s preference. Both options move teeth the same way, but they differ in appearance and a few practical details.
| Feature | Metal Braces | Ceramic Braces |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Visible metal brackets, customizable band colors | Tooth-colored brackets, less noticeable |
| Best for | More significant alignment or bite issues | Milder cases, image-conscious older kids |
| Durability | Very sturdy for active children | Slightly more delicate, needs careful care |
| Typical treatment time | 12 to 30 months depending on the bite | 12 to 30 months depending on the bite |
We review both braces options and clear aligners for children at the first visit, since some kids qualify for either. You can also learn more about Invisalign for kids.
How does treatment work day to day?
Once braces are on, adjustment visits run about 20 minutes every 4 to 6 weeks. We check progress, tighten wires, and watch how the bite is shifting.
Caring for braces at home
Children with braces should avoid sticky candy, popcorn kernels, hard nuts, and ice, since these can break brackets. Brushing after meals and flossing with a threader keeps teeth healthy under the wires.
What happens if a bracket breaks
We handle emergency bracket repairs. A loose bracket or poking wire is common with active kids, so call us and we will get your child in as soon as we can.
Why choose our Latham office?
Families from Loudonville, Cohoes, Watervliet, Waterford, Clifton Park, and Halfmoon already visit us off Route 9, with parking right at the door. Dr. Lozman’s practice joined Efros Orthodontics. Existing patients keep the same team and the same Latham location, now backed by a wider regional network.
We’re open Monday through Thursday from 8:00am to 5:00pm and Friday from 7:30am to 3:00pm. Dr. Robin Lozman earned her DMD at the University of Pennsylvania. She also completed a Master’s in Education there. Dr. Lozman then completed a two-year orthodontic residency at the Eastman Dental Center, treating children, adults, and complex surgical cases. You can read more on her bio page.
We offer 0% interest payment plans with payments as low as $99 per month in some cases. We’re also in-network with most major insurance plans. A free consultation includes X-rays, a digital scan, and a clear walkthrough of options for a child’s case.
Braces for Kids questions from Latham patients
Does a 7-year-old need braces right away?
No, most 7-year-olds just need an evaluation, not braces. The checkup lets us decide whether early treatment, monitoring, or waiting is the right path.
How long do most children wear braces?
Treatment typically runs 12 to 30 months, depending on the bite and how much correction is needed. Children who start with early interceptive care sometimes need a shorter second phase later.
Can a child with braces play sports or music?
Yes, children with braces can continue sports and instruments without major changes. We recommend a mouthguard for contact sports. Most kids adjust to playing wind instruments within a couple of weeks.
Is children’s orthodontic treatment covered by insurance?
We’re in-network with most major insurance plans, which can significantly reduce what you pay out of pocket. If you don’t see your plan listed on our patient resources page, get in touch, since we may still participate with your provider.
