If you’re a parent, you already know that every stage of your child’s growth brings a new milestone, and their smile is no exception. As those baby teeth make way for permanent ones, you might start wondering when and how to find the right orthodontist for your kids.
Choosing an orthodontist means finding someone who understands how kids grow, communicates clearly with parents, and creates an experience that feels positive, not intimidating. At Lakewood Orthodontics, Dr. Ravi Rajanna and our team know that early orthodontic care is about building trust, comfort, and confidence for both kids and parents alike.
Here’s your guide to finding the right fit for your family and what to expect when your child starts their smile journey with us.
How to Find the Right Orthodontist for Your Kids
The best orthodontist for kids is someone who helps your child feel safe, understood, and excited to care for their smile. Here are a few qualities to look for as you begin your search.
1. Look for Pediatric Experience and a Gentle Approach
Not every orthodontist specializes in treating children, so ask about their experience with younger patients. A great orthodontist for kids knows how to explain things in a way children understand and keeps visits upbeat and positive.
At Lakewood Orthodontics, Dr. Rajanna and our team make each visit fun and educational. We explain every step, celebrate milestones, and make sure kids leave feeling proud of their progress.
2. Ask About Early Evaluations and Growth Monitoring
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should see an orthodontist by age 7. A practice that offers early evaluations shows they’re focused on prevention and growth guidance, not rushing treatment.
We take a conservative approach, often recommending simple observation visits if treatment isn’t needed yet. That helps us keep an eye on growth and make smart, timely decisions later.
3. Choose an Office That Feels Kid-Friendly and Welcoming
From the moment you walk in, you should get a sense of warmth and patience. Does the team greet your child by name? Are they comfortable explaining what’s happening? The environment plays a big role in how your child feels about orthodontic care long-term.
At Lakewood Orthodontics, our Lee’s Summit office is designed to feel inviting, never clinical or overwhelming. We know that a positive early experience builds lifelong confidence in dental care.
4. Ask About Clear Communication and Parent Involvement
Parents should always feel informed and included. The right orthodontist will take time to explain what they see, why they recommend a certain approach, and what the timeline looks like.
We make sure you leave every visit with answers — not questions. You’ll always know what stage your child is in, what progress to expect, and how to help at home.
5. Look for Flexible Scheduling and a Local Connection
Between school, sports, and family life, convenience matters. Choosing a local orthodontist for kids in Lee’s Summit makes appointments easier to manage and helps make sure you’ll have consistent access to care if anything comes up.
Lakewood Orthodontics is proud to be part of the local community, serving families across Lee’s Summit and nearby neighborhoods. We offer flexible scheduling and quick communication so you can focus on what matters most: your family.
How to Prepare Your Child for Their First Orthodontic Visit
If this is your child’s first visit to an orthodontist, a little preparation can go a long way in helping them feel confident and calm.
Start the Conversation Early
Let your child know ahead of time that you’re going to visit an orthodontist — someone who helps make smiles healthy and strong. Keep it positive and simple: “The orthodontist is going to take cool pictures of your teeth and show us how they grow.”
Avoid words like shots, pain, or drills — those belong in the world of cavities, not orthodontics.
Bring Familiar Comforts
If your child tends to get nervous, bring something that helps them feel safe, like a small toy, book, or fidget. Familiar items can make a big difference in keeping kids relaxed during their first visit.
Share What to Expect
Explain that they’ll meet the doctor, look at pictures of their teeth, and maybe get a fun prize at the end. Framing the visit as something exciting (and quick!) helps set a positive tone.
Stay Positive Yourself
Kids pick up on your emotions. If you seem confident and upbeat, they’ll feel that too. We always encourage parents to ask questions ahead of time so you can walk in feeling just as comfortable as your child.
What to Expect at a First Visit at Lakewood Orthodontics
Your child’s first visit to Lakewood Orthodontics is designed to be easy, educational, and completely stress-free. This first visit is the first step toward understanding how your child’s teeth and jaw are developing.
Here’s what you and your child can expect:
A Warm Welcome
Our friendly team greets you as soon as you walk in. We take time to get to know your child and help them feel comfortable — no rush, no pressure.
Digital Scans (No Goopy Impressions!)
We use advanced digital scanners to take quick, painless 3D images of your child’s teeth. This lets Dr. Rajanna evaluate their growth and bite patterns with precision. Kids love seeing their smile pop up on screen!
Smile & Bite Evaluation
Dr. Rajanna reviews the scans, looks at how your child’s teeth fit together, and checks how their jaw is growing. He’ll look for signs like crowding, spacing, or bite issues that may benefit from early guidance.
Personalized Recommendations
Not every child needs treatment right away — and many don’t until their teens. If everything looks healthy, we’ll simply recommend observation visits once or twice a year. If minor issues could benefit from early care, we’ll discuss gentle, age-appropriate options like expanders.
Q&A and Next Steps
We take time to answer every question you or your child may have. Whether it’s about treatment, timing, or cost, we believe you deserve clear, honest answers. You’ll leave with a full understanding of your child’s smile and a plan that makes sense for your family.
Start Your Child’s Smile Journey at Lakewood Orthodontics
Finding the right orthodontist for kids is one of the best investments you can make in your child’s long-term health and confidence. With expert care, a friendly environment, and a team that loves working with kids, Lakewood Orthodontics makes it easy to start this exciting new chapter.
Whether your child is 7 and ready for their first check-up or you’ve noticed signs that their smile may need a little guidance, we’re here to help. Schedule your child’s free consultation today and discover why families across Lee’s Summit trust Lakewood Orthodontics to care for growing smiles.