A pediatric orthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial alignment irregularities in children, teens, and young adults. They use a variety of treatments to correct malocclusion, the misalignment of teeth, and jaws. Pediatric orthodontics care may include braces, retainers, headgear, or other orthodontic appliances.

The first stage begins around age seven. At this point, children still have their primary teeth, the teeth before your permanent teeth come out. Early intervention may include preventative, interception, or modified orthodontic care. A preventative measure like an oral appliance might be used to correct an existing issue or to guide proper bone growth.