What is Children's Orthodontics?

Children's orthodontics guides jaw growth and tooth position during key growth years. Dr. Vickie Greenberg, a board-certified orthodontist, treats kids with clear aligner therapy - Invisalign® First for growing children and Invisalign Teen® for adolescents. Our practice does not offer traditional metal or ceramic braces.

Aligner trays are custom-made, removable, and low-profile, so kids can eat, brush, and floss without brackets or wires. When growth guidance is needed, Dr. Greenberg may use appliances such as a palatal expander or space maintainer before or alongside aligners to build a stable, healthy bite.

Benefits of Children's Orthodontics

Since your child is still growing, having orthodontics so young is actually quite helpful in correcting issues such as their bite and ability to chew properly. It can also help improve self-esteem, particularly during a time when they may be emotionally sensitive.

Another great benefit is that straightening teeth now with pediatric orthodontics can prevent teeth from crowding your child's mouth. Along with that, it can resolve problems with speech your child may be experiencing due to upper teeth overlapping the lower ones. And starting orthodontic treatment at a young age can actually reduce the amount of time needed to correct your child's teeth. This is also an excellent time for your child to create habits for maintaining their oral health, which will prevent tooth decay, infection, plaque or tartar buildup, or other potential issues that can lead to tooth loss.

Key benefits include:

Preventing more severe issues down the line by guiding jaw and tooth development
Creating better bite alignment to improve chewing and speech
Boosting your child's confidence during formative years
Reducing the risk of future tooth decay and gum disease
Encouraging good lifelong oral hygiene habits
Shortening the overall treatment timeline
Offering flexible options like Invisalign Teen for more discreet care

Pasadena Children's orthodontics girl patient model smiling

Is My Child a Candidate for Orthodontics?

If your child has teeth that do not line up properly, a misaligned jaw, large gaps in their teeth, crooked teeth, rotated teeth, or issues with biting, then they are likely good candidates for orthodontics.

While more severe cases may need braces instead of Invisalign Teen®, Dr. Greenberg can find the most effective solution available to straighten your child's teeth. In order to get started, you will need to book a free consultation with Dr. Greenberg. She will examine your child and discuss the best ways of treatment to straighten their teeth. Call or click here to book your consultation today.

What to Expect on Your First Visit

We believe the best care starts with comfort and clarity. From the moment you walk into Greenberg Orthodontics & TMJ, we work to ensure both you and your child feel at ease. Our front desk team will greet you and guide you through check-in. Then, you'll get a brief tour of our space—clean, modern, and family-friendly—so your child knows exactly what to expect.

Next comes the tech side: we'll take digital X-rays and scans using low-radiation equipment. These images help Dr. Greenberg evaluate your child's current alignment and growth stage. Then, she'll meet with you to review her findings, answer questions, and outline potential treatment options. You'll also get access to our 24/7 patient portal, where you can view appointment notes, payment info, and upcoming visits anytime.

Pasadena Children's orthodontics girl patient model smiling with their dad

Comfort & Safety for Kids

We know dental visits can be intimidating for some kids, especially if they've had tough past experiences or have unique needs. That's why Dr. Greenberg and our team are trained to work with all kinds of kids, including those with anxiety, ADHD, sensory sensitivities, or developmental conditions.

We create a calm, welcoming atmosphere with a flexible approach. Need extra time to settle in? We'll make room in the schedule. Need to bring a comfort item from home? No problem. We also offer behavior-guided techniques and gentle sedation options when necessary to help ensure your child has a positive, stress-free visit.

Your child's physical and emotional well-being always comes first.

Pasadena children's orthodontics boy patient model swinging on rope

The Children's Orthodontics Process

Note: Our practice offers clear aligner orthodontics (Invisalign® First and Invisalign Teen®). We do not offer traditional metal or ceramic braces.

After digital scans, photos, and imaging, Dr. Greenberg maps a step-by-step plan for your child. Custom aligners are created to move teeth in small increments. Your child wears each set 20 to 22 hours a day and removes them for meals, drinks, brushing, and flossing. New trays are introduced on a set schedule, and brief check-ins keep progress on track.

Some kids benefit from growth-guidance tools, such as a palatal expander or a space maintainer, before or alongside aligners. Once active movement is complete, a retainer holds the new position while bone and soft tissues stabilize. Consistent wear is the key to a smooth process and lasting results.

Parent Prep Guide

You don't need to do much to prepare, but a little bit of planning can help your child feel more comfortable and confident ahead of their orthodontic start.

Before your first visit:

Talk to your child about what to expect in simple, reassuring terms
Let them know they'll meet friendly people and take pictures of their smile
If they're nervous, consider showing them photos of our office or team beforehand

After treatment begins:

Help your child stick to oral hygiene routines—brushing after meals, flossing nightly
Stock up on soft foods for the first few days after new appliances are placed
Remind them to avoid sticky or hard snacks (especially with braces!)
Use apps or sticker charts to help Invisalign Teen users stay consistent

Encouragement goes a long way. Celebrate milestones — whether it's their first scan or last aligner tray.

Your Consultation for Children's Orthodontics in Pasadena

If you would like to know more about getting orthodontics for your child, Vickie Greenberg Orthodontics offers the highest level of care available and strives to deliver the best children's orthodontics Pasadena has to offer. With over 25 years of experience, board-certified Dr. Green also specializes in Invisalign Teen®. Dr. Greenberg takes on the most challenging cases and finds non-surgical solutions for straightening your child's teeth. If you are interested in taking the next step, schedule your free consultation by calling or booking online today.

Cost of Children's Orthodontics

The cost of your pediatric orthodontic treatment will depend on the complexity of their case and the type of appliance used (e.g., metal braces, ceramic braces, or Invisalign Teen). Most dental insurance plans include coverage for children's orthodontics, and our team is happy to help you navigate your benefits.

If your plan doesn't fully cover treatment or you're uninsured, we offer flexible payment options and financing solutions to make sure your child can get the care they need, without putting extra stress on your family's budget.

Have questions? Reach out to discuss pricing or to schedule a complimentary consultation.

Pediatric Orthodontics Frequently Asked Questions

How long will my child be wearing braces?

That really depends on whether your child will be getting braces or Invisalign Teen and what are the specific changes needed to straighten your child's teeth. On average, your child will wear Invisalign Teen between a year to 18 months, but this time may be longer or shorter. During your consultation with Dr. Greenberg, she will be able to give you a more specific length of time.

How much do braces and Invisalign Teen cost?

The price for these orthodontics depends on what kind of straightening is needed, which affects how long the braces or Invisalign will be worn. Most dental insurers do cover orthodontics, so make sure to contact your provider to get more information on that. If your provider does not fully cover your Pasadena Child's Orthodontic treatment or if your child does not have insurance, make sure to ask about possible payment plans or alternate ways to finance.

When should my child first see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist by age 7. This allows us to catch any potential issues early—like crowding, crossbite, or jaw misalignment—before they become more complex.

Does my child need to wear a retainer?

Yes. Once braces or aligners are finished, retainers help hold your child's teeth in place. Skipping the retainer phase can undo the progress made during treatment.

Is Invisalign Teen as effective as braces?

For many mild to moderate cases, Invisalign Teen is just as effective as traditional braces, especially when your child wears their aligners consistently. Dr. Greenberg will help determine if it's the right fit for your child.

What if my child forgets to wear their aligners?

It happens! Invisalign Teen includes a blue compliance indicator that helps both parents and Dr. Greenberg track wear time. If your child struggles with consistency, we can offer coaching or explore other options like ceramic braces.

How often will we need to come in for visits?

Braces typically require check-ins every four to six weeks. Invisalign Teen patients come in every six to eight weeks for new aligners. Either way, we keep visits efficient and kid-friendly.

You Deserve a Great Smile

Greenberg Orthodontics & TMJ not only offers specialized care, but you can also first see if it’s the right choice for you by booking your FREE consultation. We offer these free consultations to get to know you and help ease your or your child’s fears about what it means to have ongoing dental treatments and how that can improve your overall quality of life.

2035 Lake Ave, Altadena, CA 91001

Children's Orthodontics In Pasadena, CA