orthodontist Leesburg VA

Braces for Kids in Ashburn, Woodbridge & Alexandria, VA

Giving your child a healthy, straight smile is one of the best investments you can make in their confidence and long-term oral health. At ABSC Orthodontics, Dr. Ron Hessamfar provides expert orthodontic care for children across Northern Virginia — with a gentle, child-friendly approach designed to make every visit a positive experience. The first consultation is completely free.

When Should Kids Get Braces?

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that every child have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, children have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, which allows Dr. Hessamfar to identify developing problems early — before they become more complex and costly to treat. This does not mean your child will start braces at age 7. In most cases, Dr. Hessamfar will simply monitor your child’s dental development and recommend the ideal time to begin treatment. Most children start comprehensive braces treatment between the ages of 9 and 14, once most of their permanent teeth have come in. Early evaluation gives your child the best chance at a healthy, well-aligned smile with the simplest possible treatment path.

Why Early Orthodontic Evaluation Matters for Children

Many parents assume orthodontic treatment only begins in the teenage years — but a timely evaluation at age 7 can make a significant difference in your child’s outcome. While your child’s mouth is still growing, an experienced orthodontist can identify problems that are far easier to address early than later.

Early evaluation at ABSC allows Dr. Hessamfar to:

  • Detect crowding, spacing, and bite problems before all permanent teeth erupt
  • Guide proper jaw growth and create space for incoming adult teeth
  • Identify habits — such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting — that can affect dental development
  • Determine whether early orthodontic treatment (Phase 1) is needed or whether monitoring is sufficient
  • Reduce the risk of more complex treatment — including tooth extractions or jaw surgery — later in life

Early evaluation does not always lead to early treatment. In many cases, Dr. Hessamfar will advise watchful waiting and schedule regular check-ins to monitor your child’s development at no additional cost.

Dr. Ron Hessamfar DMD MS orthodontist at American Braces and Smile Center Northern Virginia

Signs Your Child May Need Braces

You do not need to wait for a dentist referral to bring your child in. If you notice any of the following, it is worth scheduling an evaluation with Dr. Hessamfar:

  • Crowded or overlapping teeth — teeth that do not have enough space to come in straight
  • Gaps between teeth — spacing issues that can affect bite function and appearance
  • Early or late loss of baby teeth — losing baby teeth too soon or too late can disrupt the spacing for permanent teeth
  • Difficulty chewing or biting — signs of a misaligned bite that can worsen without treatment
  • Mouth breathing — which can be related to jaw development issues
  • Thumb sucking or pacifier use after age 5 — prolonged habits can push teeth out of alignment and affect jaw shape
  • Jaw shifting, clicking, or popping — may indicate bite or jaw alignment problems
  • Teeth that do not meet properly when biting — including overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite
  • Facial asymmetry — one side of the jaw developing differently from the other

Even if none of these signs are present, a routine evaluation at age 7 is still recommended. Some orthodontic problems are not visible without a professional examination and X-rays.

Dr. Hessamfar AAO American Association of Orthodontists member Northern Virginia

Phase 1 and Phase 2 Orthodontic Treatment for Children

Phase 1 — Early Interceptive Treatment (Ages 6–10)

Phase 1 orthodontic treatment focuses on correcting jaw and bite problems while your child is still growing and their bones are more responsive to gentle guidance. Not every child needs Phase 1 treatment, but for those who do, addressing problems early can prevent more serious issues — and significantly simplify any treatment needed later. Phase 1 may involve palatal expanders, space maintainers, partial braces, or other appliances. Treatment typically lasts 9 to 18 months, followed by a rest period while remaining permanent teeth erupt.

Phase 2 — Comprehensive Braces Treatment (Ages 11–14)

Phase 2 is the stage most people picture when they think of braces — full fixed appliances applied once most or all of the permanent teeth have come in. The goal is to align all the teeth, correct the bite, and achieve the best possible functional and aesthetic result. Children who had Phase 1 treatment often have shorter, simpler Phase 2 treatment. Phase 2 typically lasts 18 to 24 months, depending on the complexity of the case.

Types of Braces Available for Kids at ABSC

Dr. Hessamfar will recommend the most appropriate type of braces for your child based on their clinical needs, age, and lifestyle. ABSC offers the full range of fixed orthodontic options for children:

  • Metal Braces — The most popular choice for children. Durable, effective, and the most affordable option. Many kids enjoy personalizing their look with colorful elastic bands at each appointment.
  • Clear Ceramic Braces — Tooth-colored brackets that are far less visible than metal — a good option for older children and young teenagers who are self-conscious about their appearance during treatment.
  • Self-Ligating Braces — A band-free system that reduces friction, requires fewer adjustment visits, and can shorten overall treatment time — well suited to active children and busy family schedules.

What to Expect at Your Child’s First Visit to ABSC

Your child’s first visit to ABSC is a free, no-pressure consultation designed to be comfortable and informative for both parent and child. Here is what happens:

  • Clinical examination: Dr. Hessamfar will carefully examine your child’s teeth, jaws, and bite to assess their current development
  • Digital X-rays and iTero scanning: We use advanced digital imaging — no messy impressions — to get a precise picture of your child’s dental structure
  • Diagnosis and discussion: Dr. Hessamfar will explain exactly what he finds, whether treatment is needed now or in the future, and what options are available
  • Treatment timeline: If braces are recommended, you will receive a clear explanation of the treatment plan, expected duration, and what each phase involves
  • Cost and financing: Our team will walk you through the cost, insurance coverage, and the flexible payment plans available to your family

Most children leave their first consultation feeling confident and excited rather than nervous. Dr. Hessamfar and his team are experienced in making children feel welcome and at ease from the very first visit.

Metal braces clear braces and Invisalign options at ABSC Orthodontics Ashburn VA

Helping Your Child Care for Their Braces

Good oral hygiene during braces treatment is essential to protecting your child’s teeth and getting the best possible result. Here is how to support your child at home:

  • Brush after every meal — use a soft-bristle brush and spend at least two minutes cleaning around each bracket and along the gumline
  • Floss daily — use a floss threader or water flosser to clean between teeth and beneath the archwire. Review our full brushing and flossing guide for step-by-step instructions
  • Avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods — popcorn, hard candy, gum, ice, and bagels can damage brackets and wires and extend treatment time
  • Wear a mouthguard during sports — protect your child’s braces and teeth during contact sports with an orthodontic-friendly mouthguard
  • Keep all adjustment appointments — regular visits every 4 to 8 weeks keep treatment on track and allow Dr. Hessamfar to monitor progress
ABSC Orthodontics office Ashburn VA with happy smiling patients

Why Northern Virginia Families Choose ABSC for Kids’ Braces

At ABSC, children’s orthodontic care is not an afterthought — it is at the heart of what we do. Dr. Ron Hessamfar has over 20 years of experience treating children, teenagers, and adults across Northern Virginia. His patient, child-friendly approach has made ABSC one of the most trusted orthodontic practices in the region.

  • Board-eligible orthodontist with 20+ years of experience treating children
  • Recognized as Top Orthodontist by Northern Virginia Magazine and Washingtonian Magazine
  • Voted Best Orthodontist in Prince William and Loudoun County
  • iTero digital scanning — no uncomfortable impressions for children
  • Three conveniently located offices across Northern Virginia
  • Flexible family financing plans — affordable monthly payments with no large upfront cost
  • Free initial consultation — no referral needed, no cost to you

Three Locations Serving Kids Across Northern Virginia

ABSC has three offices across Northern Virginia, making it easy for families to find a convenient location close to home or school. Every office offers the same expert-level care from Dr. Hessamfar and his team.

  • Kids’ braces in Ashburn, VA — serving families in Ashburn, Broadlands, Brambleton, Leesburg, Sterling, and Chantilly
  • Kids’ braces in Woodbridge, VA — serving families in Woodbridge, Manassas, Dale City, Dumfries, and Lake Ridge
  • Kids’ braces in Alexandria, VA — serving families in Alexandria, Fairfax, Reston, Herndon, and Springfield

Call us at 703-726-6561 or book your child’s free consultation online today.

Frequently Asked Questions — Braces for Kids

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Most children begin comprehensive braces treatment between the ages of 9 and 14, once most permanent teeth have come in. The right time for your child depends on their individual dental development — Dr. Hessamfar will give you a clear recommendation at your free consultation.

No referral is needed. Any parent can contact ABSC directly to schedule a free orthodontic evaluation for their child. We welcome self-referrals and referrals from pediatric dentists, family dentists, and other providers.

Comprehensive braces treatment (Phase 2) typically lasts 18 to 24 months for most children, though complex cases may take longer. Phase 1 early treatment, if needed, usually lasts 9 to 18 months followed by a rest period. Dr. Hessamfar will give you a personalized estimate at your child’s consultation.

Children may experience some soreness for 3 to 5 days after getting braces and following adjustment appointments, as the teeth begin to move. This is normal and temporary. Children’s Tylenol (acetaminophen) can help with discomfort. Most children adapt quickly and find appointments easy after the first few weeks.

Metal braces are the most popular choice for children — durable, effective, and the most affordable option. Many kids love choosing colored elastics at each visit. For older children and teens who are concerned about appearance, clear ceramic braces or self-ligating braces are also excellent options. Dr. Hessamfar will recommend the best fit for your child.

Not always. Phase 1 early treatment corrects jaw and bite problems while your child is still growing, which can make any future braces treatment shorter and simpler. However, most children who have Phase 1 treatment will still need Phase 2 comprehensive braces once their permanent teeth have come in.

The cost of braces depends on the type of treatment and the complexity of your child’s case. ABSC offers flexible family financing plans with affordable monthly payments. Most dental insurance plans that include orthodontic coverage will contribute toward your child’s treatment. Our team will review your insurance benefits and payment options at your consultation.

Yes. Children with braces can continue to play sports — we strongly recommend wearing an orthodontic-friendly mouthguard during contact sports to protect both the braces and the teeth. Ask our team about the best mouthguard options for your child at their next appointment.

What Parents Are Saying About ABSC

“Dr. Hessamfar was wonderful with my daughter from the very first visit. He took his time explaining everything in a way she could understand, which really helped her feel at ease. Her smile is absolutely beautiful now and the whole process was much smoother than I expected.”

— ABSC Orthodontics parent, Ashburn, VA

Dr. Ron Hessamfar is a board-eligible orthodontist with over 20 years of experience providing orthodontic care for children, teens, and adults across Northern Virginia. His expertise in pediatric orthodontic development ensures your child receives the right treatment at exactly the right time — not too early, not too late. ABSC has been recognized as a Top Orthodontist by Northern Virginia Magazine and Washingtonian Magazine and consistently voted Best Orthodontist in Prince William and Loudoun County. Read more parent and patient reviews here.

Dr. Ron Hessamfar orthodontist Northern Virginia personal photo family

Book Your Child’s Free Orthodontic Consultation Today

The best time to evaluate your child’s orthodontic development is age 7 — and the first step costs nothing. Schedule your child’s free consultation with Dr. Hessamfar at any of our three Northern Virginia offices. No referral needed. No obligation. Just a thorough, caring evaluation and honest guidance from an experienced orthodontist.

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Happy patient with straight teeth after braces treatment at ABSC Orthodontics in Ashburn Virginia