Expert Orthodontic Care for Kids

For Kids

At JB Peterman Orthodontics, we understand how important early orthodontic care is for a child’s healthy smile. As an expert orthodontist in Chatham, we provide specialized treatment plans for children, ensuring they receive the care they need at the right time. A well-aligned smile not only boosts confidence but also improves oral health and overall well-being.

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Why Early Orthodontic Treatment is Important

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children visit an orthodontist by age seven. Early evaluations help identify and correct potential issues before they become more complex. By starting treatment at the right age, we can:

Guide jaw development for proper bite alignment
Create space for incoming permanent teeth
Reduce the need for extractions or surgical corrections later
Improve speech and chewing function
Boost your child’s self-confidence with a healthier smile

If you’re looking for a trusted orthodontist in Chatham for your child, JB Peterman Orthodontics is here to help. Learn more about our treatments and schedule a consultation here.

How to Know If Your Child Needs an Orthodontist?

You may wonder whether your child needs early orthodontic treatment. Some signs that indicate it’s time to see an orthodontist include:

Early or late loss of baby teeth
Crowded or misaligned teeth
Difficulty chewing or biting
Thumb-sucking beyond age five
Jaw shifting or clicking sounds
Speech difficulties

If you notice any of these signs, schedule a consultation with us here.

Our Orthodontic Treatment Options for Kids

Traditional Metal Braces

Metal braces remain one of the most effective ways to straighten teeth. They are durable and work efficiently for a variety of alignment issues. Learn more about metal braces.

Palatal Expander

A palatal expander is an effective orthodontic device that helps widen the upper jaw to create space for proper tooth alignment. This treatment is particularly beneficial for children whose jaws are still developing, ensuring a balanced bite and preventing future dental complications. Learn more about how a palatal expander can support your child’s orthodontic health.

Clear Braces

For children who prefer a more discreet option, clear braces provide the same effectiveness as traditional braces but with a less noticeable appearance. Find out how clear braces can benefit your child.

What to Expect During Your Child’s First Orthodontic Visit

During the consultation, our expert team will perform a thorough examination and take digital scans to assess your child’s needs. We will discuss any potential concerns, present treatment options, and create a personalized plan tailored to their dental health. Our goal is to ensure you and your child feel informed and confident about the orthodontic journey ahead.

Schedule Your Child’s Orthodontic Consultation Today!

A healthy, beautiful smile starts with expert orthodontic care. If you’re searching for a compassionate and experienced orthodontist in Chatham, JB Peterman Orthodontics is here to provide the highest level of care for your child.

📞 Call us today or book an appointment online! Contact us here.

FAQs About For Kids Orthodontics

At what age should my child first see an orthodontist?wpdevdentli2026-05-27T12:54:16+00:00

At what age should my child first see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7! Don’t worry, this doesn’t usually mean they’ll get braces right away. It simply gives us a chance to monitor how their jaw is growing and catch any potential spacing or bite issues early on, keeping their smile on the right track!

What are the signs that my child might need early orthodontic care?wpdevdentli2026-05-27T12:54:42+00:00

What are the signs that my child might need early orthodontic care?

Every smile is unique, but some common signs it might be time to visit us include:

Losing baby teeth unusually early or late.
Visible crowding, overlapping, or misplaced teeth.
Difficulty chewing or biting comfortably.
Thumb-sucking habits that continue past age 5.
Jaws that shift, click, or pop.
Speech difficulties or mouth breathing.

What are the benefits of starting orthodontic treatment early?wpdevdentli2026-05-27T12:55:01+00:00

What are the benefits of starting orthodontic treatment early?

Think of early treatment (often called Phase 1) as setting up a great foundation! By guiding jaw development while your child is still growing, we can ensure there’s plenty of room for permanent teeth to arrive safely. This often shortens their overall treatment time later on, reduces the need for tooth extractions or future jaw surgery, and boosts their everyday confidence!

What kid-friendly treatment options do you offer at JB Peterman Orthodontics?wpdevdentli2026-05-27T12:55:49+00:00

What kid-friendly treatment options do you offer at JB Peterman Orthodontics?

We love making smile transformations fun and comfortable! For our younger patients, we offer:

Traditional Metal Braces: Super durable, highly effective, and customizable with colorful bands that kids love to show off!
Clear Ceramic Braces: The same reliable power as metal braces, but made from tooth-colored materials for a more low-profile look.
Palatal Expanders: A clever, gentle device that helps widen a developing upper jaw to fix crossbites and make room for incoming teeth.
Clear Aligners: Removable, virtually invisible, and perfect for keeping up with brushing and flossing easily.

What should we expect during our child’s first visit to your office?wpdevdentli2026-05-27T12:56:16+00:00

What should we expect during our child’s first visit to your office?

Expect lots of high energy, warm smiles, and zero stress! Your child’s first consultation is completely complimentary. Our team will take comfortable, state-of-the-art digital scans and X-rays (no messy, gooey impressions here!), perform a gentle exam, and chat with you about whether treatment is needed yet. If it is, we’ll build a customized, easy-to-understand plan just for them!

What Our Patients Say

    
 
 
        Claire Keller 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Peterman and his team are the best! They take every measure to help you achieve the goals you want and don’t stop until you are 100% satisfied. They are truly a lovely group and really care for your individuals needs. Could not recommend them more!
  
 
       Jeronimo Perez Correa 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This is one of the BEST practices I've ever encountered.
My son got braces a month ago and we couldn't be happier. Extremely professional whilst keeping a ver personal care for their patients.The entire staff is beyond hospitable and clearly know what they are doing.One of their advantages is their location in Chatham which is incredibly convenient, specially in emergencies and follow up appointments.
Dr JB Peterman is both knowledgable and experienced. He explains the whole process in detail and is always happy to answer any questions and respond to urgencies.
  
 
       Rebecca Pickett 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My family loves Dr. Peterman and his team! I am so thankful that our dentist referred them. They welcomed us with positive energy and caring hearts every single visit. My son was not initially thrilled with the idea of braces, but they made it so fun and treated all of us like we were the only people in the office. He has a perfect smile just in time for Senior Pictures! And, now I get to start my journey too!
  
 
       Nicole Williams 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had such a great experience with Dr. Peterman and his amazing staff, Bree and Christian. Everyone was incredibly friendly, caring, and understanding from the moment I walked in. I needed to have my braces removed for my upcoming journey with the Navy, and to my surprise, Dr. Peterman himself was a former naval officer! He shared some great advice and made me feel confident and comfortable about the next steps ahead.
I truly appreciate the professionalism and kindness shown by the entire team — they go above and beyond for their patients. Highly recommend Dr. Peterman and his staff to anyone looking for quality orthodontic care!
  
 
       Vincent Boyle 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Peterman and his team are second to none!!! From the moment you walk in the door everything is first class. The office is impeccably clean, welcoming and comfortable. I was seated for my appointment promptly, and Dr Peterman helped me understand my orthodontic problems very concisely and offered me different options to achieve my goals. The office is also on the cutting edge of the latest and greatest technology like 3D printing so I didn’t have to take those awful impressions. Dr Peterman is incredibly kind, trustworthy, knowledgeable and just an overall good guy. If you or a family member need to pursue orthodontic care Dr Peterman is who you need to see!!!
  
 
       John Coughlan 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great experience for my son. Dr Peterman told us everything he was going to do and the timeline. Great communication with my son. And teeth look awesome!
  
 
       Eric Shatashvili 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. From the moment you walk in, you feel genuinely cared for. The staff is warm and professional, the clinic is spotless and modern. And that’s before you even meet Dr. Peterman — an exceptionally knowledgeable, kind, and caring doctor!
Highly recommend!
  
 
       Katie Polsky 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a great experience at Dr. Peterman’s office! I needed my permanent retainer fixed quickly, and they were able to get me in right away. Bree at the front desk was amazing—so friendly, kind, and helpful. The entire staff was welcoming and made me feel comfortable from start to finish. Dr. Peterman himself was awesome—friendly, knowledgeable, and thorough. My wait time was short, parking was easy, and everything went well! I highly recommend Dr. Peterman and his team!
  
 
 
 
  
 
   Google rating score: 5.0 of 5, based on 244 reviews