Setting your child's smile up for life
Treating orthodontic problems early often means simpler, shorter treatment - and a confident smile through the years that matter most. Our gentle team has been guiding Richmond families for over 30 years.
Why children's orthodontics matters
Treating crooked teeth or bite issues during childhood and adolescence is often easier, gentler and quicker than treating the same problems as an adult. Younger jaws are still growing, which means we can guide tooth movement and bite development in ways that simply aren't possible later on.
Helping Richmond children build confident smiles
For over 30 years, we've helped local families across Richmond Hill, Kew, East Sheen and TW10 navigate their children's orthodontic journeys. We know the school-run timings, the exam-season worries, and the photo-day pressures - and we plan treatment carefully around all of it.
When should my child be seen?
Most orthodontic problems become apparent between the ages of 7 and 12, when a mix of baby and adult teeth are present. We'd suggest a first orthodontic consultation around age 7 to 9 - even if treatment isn't yet needed, early monitoring is genuinely valuable.
Common reasons children need orthodontic treatment
Children come to us for a wide range of orthodontic concerns. The most common include:
- Crowding, where there isn't enough space for adult teeth
- Gaps between teeth that aren't closing naturally
- Crooked or rotated teeth
- A bite where upper and lower teeth don't meet properly
- Protruding front teeth (often vulnerable to knocks)
- Thumb-sucking habits affecting tooth position
Late evening orthodontic appointments for children in Richmond
We genuinely understand how full family calendars are. We reserve later weekday slots specifically for our younger orthodontic patients, so appointments don't have to mean missing school. We also offer one Saturday per month for families with particularly tricky weekday schedules.
Treatment options for children at Richmond Hill Dental
The right treatment depends on your child's specific needs, age and the complexity of their case. Common approaches include:
- Fixed braces - the most reliable option for many cases, available in metal or ceramic
- Clear aligners - increasingly popular with older teenagers, beautifully discreet
- Early intervention appliances - used in younger children to guide jaw growth or correct specific issues
Your child's orthodontic journey at Richmond Hill Dental
Treating children well takes patience, gentleness and proper planning. Here's how we'll guide you through the process.
Step 1 - Orthodontic consultation
Your child will have a 30-minute consultation with one of our dentists for £65, where we'll examine their teeth and bite, take photos, and explain whether treatment is needed now, later or not at all.
Step 2 - Digital scan and treatment plan
For an extra £50, we'll take a detailed iTero scan - which children find far easier than traditional impressions - and design a personalised treatment plan. You'll see a preview of the finished result.
Step 3 - Beginning treatment
Once you're ready to proceed, we'll fit the chosen appliance carefully and walk your child through how to wear and care for it. We always allow extra time for first fittings, especially with younger patients.
Step 4 - Regular reviews
Your child will come in every six to eight weeks for short progress visits. We use these as a chance to encourage their progress, troubleshoot anything tricky, and keep parents fully updated.
Step 5 - Finishing and retainers
Once treatment is complete, we'll remove the appliance and fit custom retainers (from £300) to protect their beautiful new smile through the years ahead. We'll guide you carefully on long-term retainer wear.
Looking after teeth during orthodontic treatment
Brushing thoroughly during treatment matters enormously, especially with fixed braces. We'd usually recommend hygiene visits every three months alongside orthodontic care, and our hygienists Libby and Emily are wonderful with younger patients - calm, encouraging and genuinely on their side.
How much does children's orthodontics cost in Richmond?
We're a fully private practice with transparent, upfront pricing:
- Orthodontic consultation - £65
- iTero scan and digital treatment plan - £50
- Metal braces - from £3,000
- Ceramic braces - from £4,000
- Clear aligners - from £3,500
- Retainers - from £300
Frequently asked Questions
What age should my child have their first orthodontic check?
Around age 7 to 9 is ideal. Many problems are easier to spot - and easier to treat - at this stage, even if active treatment doesn't begin for several years. Early monitoring also means we can plan ahead carefully rather than reacting later.
Will my child be too young for braces?
It depends entirely on their case. Some children benefit from early intervention appliances at age 8 or 9, while others wait until 11 or 12 when more adult teeth are through. We'll always recommend the right age for your child's specific needs.
Do clear aligners work for teenagers?
Yes, often beautifully. Many older teenagers do really well with aligners, particularly those who are responsible enough to wear them consistently for the recommended 22 hours a day. We'll be honest about whether they're the right fit for your child.
How long will my child's treatment take?
It varies. Early intervention treatments often last six to twelve months, while comprehensive brace treatment in older children typically takes 12 to 24 months. We'll always give you a realistic timeline at your consultation.
What if my child is nervous about treatment?
We're very used to gently building confidence with anxious younger patients. Many of our children have been visiting us since they were tiny for our Toothbrushing Club and routine check-ups, which means braces or aligners later on feel like a much more familiar step.
Will my child need to avoid certain foods?
With fixed braces, yes - hard, sticky and chewy foods need to be avoided to protect the brackets. With clear aligners, there are no food restrictions, since they're removed for eating. We'll talk you and your child through everything carefully at fitting.