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Braces for Kids in Tulsa: When to Start and What Parents Should Know

Dr. Christopher Trockel with a patient
  • True Smile Orthodontics
  • June 3, 2025

As a parent, you’re always looking out for your child’s health—and that includes their oral development. One common question many Tulsa parents have is: When should my child get braces? While every child’s needs are different, early orthodontic evaluations can play a key role in identifying problems before they become more complex.

From timing to treatment types and what to expect as a parent, here’s what you need to know about braces for kids in Tulsa.

When Should Children Get Braces?

The ideal age for a child’s first orthodontic evaluation is around age 7, according to the American Association of Orthodontists. At this stage, children typically have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, which allows orthodontists to spot developing alignment issues.

While your child may not need braces right away, this early visit allows the orthodontist to:

  • Monitor jaw and tooth development
  • Identify bite problems like overbite, underbite, or crossbite
  • Evaluate spacing or crowding issues
  • Plan the best time for future treatment

Some children may benefit from Phase I orthodontic treatment, which begins earlier (usually between ages 7–10) to guide proper jaw growth and prevent more invasive procedures later on.

Signs Your Child Might Need Braces

Not all orthodontic issues are obvious to the untrained eye, but there are some common signs parents can watch for that may indicate a need for braces or early intervention:

  • Early or late loss of baby teeth
  • Difficulty chewing or biting
  • Crowded or crooked teeth
  • Thumb sucking or other oral habits
  • Jaws that shift, click, or seem uneven
  • Mouth breathing
  • Speech difficulties

If you notice any of these issues, scheduling an evaluation can help determine whether your child could benefit from early treatment—or simply needs monitoring until the right time.

Types of Braces for Kids

Modern orthodontic treatment offers several types of braces designed to meet different needs and comfort levels. For children, the most common types include:

  • Metal Braces — Durable and highly effective, metal braces remain the go-to choice for many younger patients. Today’s versions are smaller and more comfortable, with colorful band options to make treatment more fun.
  • Clear Ceramic Braces — While more common for teens and adults, some older children may prefer clear braces for a less visible option. These work like metal braces but blend in more with the natural tooth color.
  • Early Expanders or Appliances — For kids in Phase I treatment, devices like palatal expanders or space maintainers may be used to guide jaw growth or preserve room for incoming permanent teeth.

Your orthodontist will recommend the most appropriate solution based on your child’s development and specific alignment needs.

What Parents Should Know About the Process

Braces are a big step—for kids and parents alike. Here are a few key things to keep in mind as you prepare for your child’s treatment:

  • Treatment length varies — Most kids wear braces for 12–24 months, depending on their case.
  • Oral hygiene is critical — Brushing and flossing around braces requires extra care and consistency.
  • Dietary changes may be needed — Sticky, hard, and chewy foods should be avoided to prevent damage.
  • Regular checkups are important — Scheduled adjustments help keep treatment on track.
  • Retention matters — After braces are removed, wearing a retainer is essential for maintaining results.

Staying involved and supportive throughout treatment helps kids stay motivated—and achieve the best possible outcome.

Ready to Explore Braces for Kids in Tulsa?

If your child is nearing age 7 or showing signs of alignment concerns, it’s a great time to schedule an orthodontic evaluation. At True Smile Orthodontics in Tulsa, we specialize in early assessments and personalized care plans that grow with your child.

Schedule your free consultation today and give your child the gift of a healthy, confident smile from the start.

Get Started On Your New Smile Today!

When you’re ready, we’ve made it super easy to get started in treatment. Conveniently located in Tulsa, we serve patients from all surrounding areas.

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We’re great at what we do! But, with over 1,000 reviews, don’t just take our word for it…Check out some of these fantastic reviews from so many happy patients throughout the years.

Amne K.
The girls at the mall were the best! Definitely recommend 10/10
Noorjahan K.
Eliana and Evilyn were super friendly we love them
THE NANDETI F.
I have looked into TrueSmile for my son’s braces, and I received very thorough and good feedback. I love their customer service, very kind, friendly and informative.
Michelle N.
I love the energy and the friendliness of the staff members at TrueSmile, although I haven’t had an actual service performed here but I have enquired and have received good feedback with thorough information.
Rosalinda P.
Amazing staff and representatives for the bixby location ! Giving great information and detail on in visiting and traditional braces ! Will be visiting this location.
We got a free giveaway at the Back to school event at the Woodland Hills mall Tulsa
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Positive energy & environment! 100% trusted orthodontist! ♡ for my 1 & 4 yr old
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Excelente Servicio, y Buenos Resultados 🫶🫶
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Excelente Servicio, y Buenos Resultados 🫶🫶
Response from the owner:Muchas gracias!
Daisy L.
Muy buen trabajo , el lugar muy limpio las personas muy amables , excelente servio 100% recomendado !! Me encanto 💖
Response from the owner:Muchas as gracias por todo!
Daisy L.
Muy buen trabajo , el lugar muy limpio las personas muy amables , excelente servio 100% recomendado !! Me encanto 💖
Response from the owner:Muchas as gracias por todo!
Berenice P.
Todo excelente, gracias por su atención
Response from the owner:Thank you, Berenice! We appreciate your kind words and are thrilled to hear you had an excellent experience. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we look forward to seeing you again soon!
Berenice P.
Todo excelente, gracias por su atención
Response from the owner:Thank you, Berenice! We appreciate your kind words and are thrilled to hear you had an excellent experience. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we look forward to seeing you again soon!
Karli Josh B.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
True Smiles Orthodontics is AMAZING!

From start to finish, our experience was truly exceptional. The orthodontist was incredibly knowledgeable, kind, and took the time to explain everything clearly. His staff was just as amazing they are so friendly, professional, and welcoming.

We absolutely love their beautiful new location it’s clean, modern, and comfortable. Most of all, we appreciated how informative they were throughout the entire process. You can tell they truly care about their patients.

Highly recommend True Smiles to anyone looking for top notch orthodontic care!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review, Karli! We're thrilled to hear about your exceptional experience at True Smile Orthodontics. Our team is dedicated to providing top-notch care, and your recommendation means a lot to us!
sofia H.
I went to the opening and they all seem to be great doctors.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review, Sofia! We're thrilled to hear you had a positive experience at our opening. Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional care, and we appreciate your support!
Zues
Super fast and professional highly recommend!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much!
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Red, White, and Braces Bright!! 💫 Wishing everyone a sparkling 4th of July don’t forget to show off that star-spangled smile!! 🇺🇸✨
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Today we celebrate a decade of dedication, compassion, and countless smiles!! Happy 10-Year Anniversary to Eliana your loyalty, hard work, and kindness have shaped our dental family in the best way. Cheers to the memories made and the smiles yet to come!! ☺️❤️
#happyanniversary #orthodontist #anniversary
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DEBOND FRIDAY!! Ending the week with some beautiful smiles 😁 

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See this stunning smile transformation! Whitening done right here in our office. ✨ Ready for your glow-up? Book your consultation today! (918) 364-2222 📆#SmileUpgrade
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Help us wish a very happy birthday to Mayra 🎉🦷 Our amazing orthodontic assistant who keeps our patients smiling every day and brightens our office with her sweet personality! We’re so lucky to have you on our team 💕
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D E B O N D  F R I D A Y ☀️
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We’re so excited to officially welcome our first patients at our new Bixby location! Thank you for letting us be a part of your smile journey-Bixby, we’re just getting started!! 🧡💙 

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#grandopening #dental #floss #ortho #braces
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Red, White, and Braces Bright!! 💫 Wishing everyone a sparkling 4th of July don’t forget to show off that star-spangled smile!! 🇺🇸✨
Open post by truesmileortho with ID 18065605703277823
Today we celebrate a decade of dedication, compassion, and countless smiles!! Happy 10-Year Anniversary to Eliana your loyalty, hard work, and kindness have shaped our dental family in the best way. Cheers to the memories made and the smiles yet to come!! ☺️❤️
#happyanniversary #orthodontist #anniversary
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DEBOND FRIDAY!! Ending the week with some beautiful smiles 😁 

#debondfriday #nomorebraces
Open post by truesmileortho with ID 18275885191261956
6 years of smiles, support, and excellence! Happy work anniversary to our incredible Lead Dental Assistant Lisa, we’re so lucky to have you leading the way. 🤍✨ #orthodontics #leadassistant #braces
Open post by truesmileortho with ID 18002400572617266
See this stunning smile transformation! Whitening done right here in our office. ✨ Ready for your glow-up? Book your consultation today! (918) 364-2222 📆#SmileUpgrade
Open post by truesmileortho with ID 18049290158580328
Remembering the heroes who gave everything for our freedom 🇺🇸🤍 

#memorialdayweekend #memorialday #honor #freedom
Open post by truesmileortho with ID 18024712004514137
Help us wish a very happy birthday to Mayra 🎉🦷 Our amazing orthodontic assistant who keeps our patients smiling every day and brightens our office with her sweet personality! We’re so lucky to have you on our team 💕
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D E B O N D  F R I D A Y ☀️
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We’re so excited to officially welcome our first patients at our new Bixby location! Thank you for letting us be a part of your smile journey-Bixby, we’re just getting started!! 🧡💙 

#orthodontics #braces #smiles #happysmiles
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D E B O N D  F R I D A Y ⭐️
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SUMMER STORYTIME!! ☀️ @woodlandhillsok
Open post by truesmileortho with ID 17865037161350197
We’re so excited to be opening down in Bixby with Floss Boss!! 🦷💫 @flossbosskids 

#grandopening #dental #floss #ortho #braces

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