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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
Neyddie C.
13:25 08 Oct 25
I can’t say enough great things about Dr. Tracy Cheung, Ayxa and the team at Orthodontic Harmony. This was my last option for a third opinion of the process I needed to take for my smile. After a sleepless night and extensive research at 2 in the morning, I found Dr. Tracy at Orthodontic Harmony.
Not only is she a true expert but she as well as Ayxa are also incredibly kind and patient. Scheduling was very easy and once I came in for my appt, The protocols they follow to ensure cleanliness and safety is impressing!
Dr. Tracy explained each step of my treatment and what to expect, so I felt comfortable, confident and overall safe and completely at ease with the treatment option I was given.
The communication between the staff and patients has shown me that we are highly considered, thought about and cared for. The follow ups and the willingness to accommodate you if you have any questions or concerns is such an important factor because as patients we never just want to feel like just a patient but like family that matters. And Here, I completely feel that.
I’m so happy I’m at the hands of a skilled and excellent Doctor along with her team. I’m looking forward to continued progress (which I already see in just 6 months)
I truly appreciate the level of detail and dedication put into their work. If you’re looking for an orthodontist who combines expertise with kindness and excellent patient care, Orthodontic Harmony is the place for you. Where you walk in as a patient and leave as family.
Not only is she a true expert but she as well as Ayxa are also incredibly kind and patient. Scheduling was very easy and once I came in for my appt, The protocols they follow to ensure cleanliness and safety is impressing!
Dr. Tracy explained each step of my treatment and what to expect, so I felt comfortable, confident and overall safe and completely at ease with the treatment option I was given.
The communication between the staff and patients has shown me that we are highly considered, thought about and cared for. The follow ups and the willingness to accommodate you if you have any questions or concerns is such an important factor because as patients we never just want to feel like just a patient but like family that matters. And Here, I completely feel that.
I’m so happy I’m at the hands of a skilled and excellent Doctor along with her team. I’m looking forward to continued progress (which I already see in just 6 months)
I truly appreciate the level of detail and dedication put into their work. If you’re looking for an orthodontist who combines expertise with kindness and excellent patient care, Orthodontic Harmony is the place for you. Where you walk in as a patient and leave as family.
Brian Rodricks
05:43 29 Sep 25
I had such a great experience with Orthodontic Harmony! From the beginning, they made me feel comfortable and explained every step of the process clearly. The staff was always friendly, professional, and patient with all my questions. My treatment went smoothly, and I’m so happy with the results my teeth are straighter than I ever imagined. I highly recommend them to anyone considering orthodontic treatment!
Yen Pham
14:57 11 Sep 25
My family has five members, and all five of us are very happy to have Dr. Tracy taking care of our beautiful teeth. She is very serious about her work, intelligent, and highly skilled in her profession. Thank you, Dr. Tracy, for helping my whole family feel happy with our lovely smiles
Diana G
18:32 05 Aug 25
I wanted adult braces for a while and finally decided to go for it. After searching, I found Dr. Tracy Li Cheung and her wonderful team. From the initial visit I knew I was in good hands. Every visit was thorough, informative, and I knew what to expect. Dr. Tracy and Ayxa were there for me every step of the way. I love my new smile! Even my dentist was impressed with the progress. If you’re looking for an awesome team that does a great job, I recommend Orthodontic Harmony!
Jose Lamela
21:31 01 Aug 25
Very nice orthopedic office. The staff is amazing and they do such a great job. They are great with getting back to you right away when you need to contact them. Also the doctor genuinely cares about how you feel about things and making the right decision for you and your family at the moment (both what’s going on physically with your teeth and financially in your wallet).
Lisa Beck
15:03 21 Jul 25
We highly recommend this practice to anyone who needs an orthodontist. Dr. Tracy has been working with my son for about 2 years as he prepped for, got braces, and went through the various steps. My son is amazing, but he is a teenage boy and also tends to chew on everything! Dr. Tracy was so supportive, encouraging, and positive with him, which made the entire process so pleasant. He struggles to remember certain routines, but she never made him feel badly and always worked with us to figure out the best way to help him do what he needed to do.
We had to move about 1.5 hours away in the middle of this process, and we chose to continue commuting back and forth to Dr. Tracy's office rather than finding someone new. It has been worth it because everyone at the office is incredibly friendly, supportive, and encouraging!
In addition, the change in his teeth and smile is significant and we are really happy with the results.
I would also add that this office is so on top of scheduling. We have never had to wait to be seen and are always in and out in a timely way - while never feeling rushed. I truly could not imagine a better experience!
We had to move about 1.5 hours away in the middle of this process, and we chose to continue commuting back and forth to Dr. Tracy's office rather than finding someone new. It has been worth it because everyone at the office is incredibly friendly, supportive, and encouraging!
In addition, the change in his teeth and smile is significant and we are really happy with the results.
I would also add that this office is so on top of scheduling. We have never had to wait to be seen and are always in and out in a timely way - while never feeling rushed. I truly could not imagine a better experience!
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.
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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