Orthodontics for Children

At Orthodontic Harmony, we understand the importance of early orthodontic care in setting the foundation for a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles. Led by Dr. Tracy Li Cheung, a board-certified orthodontist in Briarcliff Manor, NY, our practice specializes in providing gentle and effective orthodontic treatments tailored to the unique needs of children.

Why Early Orthodontic Evaluation Matters

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, a child’s mouth has a mix of baby and permanent teeth, allowing orthodontists to detect potential issues such as crowding, crossbites, and jaw growth discrepancies.

Early evaluation doesn’t always mean immediate treatment. In many cases, Dr. Cheung will monitor your child’s growth and development, intervening at the optimal time to achieve the best results.

Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment

Early, or interceptive, orthodontic treatment can offer several advantages:

  • Guiding Jaw Growth: Ensures proper alignment of the upper and lower jaws, reducing the risk of more severe issues later on.
  • Creating Space for Erupting Teeth: Helps prevent overcrowding by making room for incoming permanent teeth.
  • Reducing the Risk of Trauma: Protruding front teeth are more susceptible to injury; early treatment can reposition them to a safer alignment.
  • Improving Appearance and Self-Esteem: A well-aligned smile can boost a child’s confidence and social interactions.
  • Simplifying Future Treatment: Addressing issues early can reduce the complexity and duration of later orthodontic procedures.

Signs Your Child May Need an Orthodontic Evaluation

Consider scheduling an orthodontic consultation if your child exhibits any of the following:

  • Early or late loss of baby teeth
  • Difficulty chewing or biting
  • Mouth breathing
  • Thumb sucking beyond age 5
  • Speech difficulties
  • Protruding teeth
  • Misaligned bite or jaws

Our Child-Friendly Approach

At Orthodontic Harmony, we prioritize creating a welcoming and comfortable environment for our young patients. Dr. Cheung and our team use state-of-the-art technology and techniques to ensure that each child receives personalized care tailored to their developmental stage and specific needs.

We believe in educating both parents and children about the orthodontic process, fostering a collaborative approach to treatment that encourages active participation and understanding.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial evaluation by age 7 to identify potential issues early.

Early treatment can guide jaw growth, create space for permanent teeth, reduce the risk of trauma to protruding teeth, and improve overall appearance and self-esteem.

Not necessarily. Early evaluation allows the orthodontist to monitor development and determine the optimal time for any necessary treatment.

The duration varies based on individual needs but generally ranges from 6 to 18 months.

Coverage depends on your specific insurance plan. Our office can assist in verifying benefits and discussing payment options.

What Our Patients Say

Nicole Ceritelli
20:38 18 Jun 25
Orthodontic Harmony has been treating my two children for the last 10 months. Doctor Cheung listened to my concerns about my child’s jaw alignment and tailored a plan of treatment that was specific to him and me! She did not jump into a treatment plan. Rather, she listened to our concerns as a family and made a plan that was best for us all! I have nothing but good things to say about both her and her staff.
Rebecca Sotherden
14:00 12 Jun 25
We had a wonderful experience with Dr. Tracy's orthodontic practice. From start to finish, everything was handled with professionalism and care. Appointments were always prompt and easy to schedule,and the office was spotless and welcoming. The staff was incredibly friendly and made us feel comfortable at every visit. Communication was clear and easy, and Dr. Tracy did an amazing job transforming my daughter's smile. The results are beyond what we hoped for. We're so grateful for the care and attention that was provided. Highly recommend!
Stephenie Molina
01:39 22 Apr 25
Wow! Where can I begin? I’ll start by sharing that I had a cross bite, flared teeth caused by a previous orthodontic treatment done elsewhere and of course my teeth were misaligned. Upon my first consultation Dr, Tracy knew exactly what I needed to start. My top teeth were crowded and I needed a palette expander to create more room in my top teeth. After that I had braces to correct my misaligned teeth. Both Dr. Tracy and Ayxa were very patient with me, interested in my concerns and thorough with every step that was performed. Their level of knowledge and professionalism exceeded my expectations. My braces came off today and I cannot express enough my gratitude towards this great team whom literally has helped me regain my confidence. My smile looks amazing :) and I don’t have to feel insecure about my teeth ever again! Thank you Dr. Tracy and Ayxa for all of your hard work and dedication because it is clearly evident and I will be forever grateful!
Michelle Kenny
18:41 21 Apr 25
My daughter had a wonderful experience here with Dr. Tracy Li Cheung. We highly recommend this practice as Dr. Cheung and Ayxa were always friendly, knowledgeable, and thorough in explaining what to expect and how to care for the palate expander and braces. My daughter just had her braces removed and her teeth look great! She is happy with the results and loves her smile!!
Mariana Mastracchio
22:45 12 Mar 25
I highly recommend Dr. Tracy. She came highly recommended to me by friends, and we have had a wonderful experience working with her.
From the moment we walked in, the office staff was friendly, and Dr. Tracy took the time to explain everything clearly.
She is patient, professional, and has made my son's orthodontic treatment smooth and stress-free. We’ve already seen amazing results and feel so confident in her care.
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