If you searched for orthodontist children Nashville, you are likely wondering whether your child needs braces, when to start, and how to choose the right office. As an orthodontist, my goal is to make that process clear, calm, and practical for parents.
Starling Orthodontics is an orthodontic specialty clinic in Brentwood serving children and teens from Nashville, Franklin, Brentwood, Nolensville, Cool Springs, and all over Middle Tennessee. We provide a full range of services, from early evaluations to braces, clear ceramic braces, Clarity aligners, lingual braces, digital impressions, advanced wire technologies, and temporary anchorage devices.
Pediatric dental care focuses on cleanings, fillings, sealants, prevention, and cavities. Orthodontic care focuses on tooth movement, bite correction, jaw development, and protecting a child’s smile as permanent teeth come in.
Parents choose our office for:
Orthodontists undergo additional specialized training beyond dental school, focusing on tooth movement, bite correction, jaw development, and facial growth, which distinguishes them from general dentists. Children’s jaws are actively developing, and their treatment requires a different approach compared to adults, as timing of intervention can significantly affect outcomes.
Meet Dr. Starling, who works with children, teens, and adults across the greater Nashville area. Our team is dedicated to clear communication, respect for every patient, and recommendations that fit your child’s treatment needs rather than a one size fits all process.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic evaluation by age seven to identify potential issues early, allowing for timely intervention when necessary.
Early orthodontic evaluations allow for monitoring of a child’s growth and development, which can lead to shorter treatment times and better outcomes when intervention is needed. Many children do not need early treatment, but the visit gives parents a plan.
Identifying issues like a narrow palate or crossbite at an early age can allow for simpler interventions, as treatment is more effective while the jaw is still growing. Most kids start active braces between ages 9 and 14, once many permanent teeth are present. You can see more information here on the right age for braces.
Personalized treatment plans in orthodontics take into account the unique dental and facial characteristics of each child, ensuring that the approach is tailored to their specific needs and growth patterns. Orthodontic treatment plans that are personalized can lead to shorter treatment times and better outcomes by addressing issues at the optimal time during a child’s growth.
Options include:
A comprehensive approach to personalized treatment plans includes not only the alignment of teeth, but also considerations for jaw development and overall facial aesthetics during childhood. A pediatric focused orthodontist considers the holistic development of a child, addressing issues like mouth breathing and thumb sucking that can impact jaw development and overall health. Children's jaws are actively developing, and their treatment requires a different approach compared to adults, as timing of intervention can significantly affect outcomes.
At the first visit, we welcome your family, take photos, complete digital scans when needed, and evaluate the teeth, bite, jaw growth, and smile goals. Then we review whether treatment is needed now, later, or not at all.
A supportive environment and friendly staff can significantly reduce children’s dental anxiety. Orthodontic visits typically occur every 4 to 8 weeks throughout treatment.
What to expect:
We coordinate with your child’s pediatric dentist or general dental office because dental care does not pause during orthodontics. Preventive care is essential for maintaining children’s dental health, as it helps to prevent dental problems before they occur, ensuring a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.
Keep this routine:
Starling Orthodontics offers complimentary initial consultations for children and teens, with exams and digital records as needed. Orthodontic providers should offer flexible, transparent pricing plans to fit different budgets.
We help with:
Finding an orthodontist close to home, work, or school is crucial due to potential traffic concerns. Our Brentwood location is convenient for many families in Green Hills, Forest Hills, Oak Hill, Bellevue, Franklin, Nolensville, Cool Springs, and Nashville.
Many families choose Starling Orthodontics for proximity, expertise, and a positive, family-centered office. We are honored when parents refer friends because their child’s smile gained health, confidence, and comfort.
No. A referral is helpful, but parents may schedule directly.
The first orthodontic visit should be by age seven; braces often begin between 9 and 14.
It depends on growth, bite, compliance, and goals. Most cases take 12–24 months.
Yes, for responsible older kids and teens who can wear them as directed.
Mild soreness is normal after adjustments, but modern treatment is more gentle than in the past.
Call our office. We will guide you and schedule a repair if needed.
Yes. We recommend mouthguards for sports and patience while adapting to instruments.
Many plans include orthodontic benefits, and we help verify insurance.
Yes, flexible payment options are available.
If you are ready to understand your child’s teeth, bite, and growth, schedule a free consultation with Starling Orthodontics.
Next steps:
Please call (615) 507-1660 or click below to schedule your appointment online.
Please call (615) 507-1660 or click below to schedule your complimentary orthodontic consultation online.
