Braces for your kid, without the drama
From the first check around age 7 to the day the braces come off. Free first visit, as low as $99 a month, and late hours so nobody misses school (or work).
The short version for busy parents: bring your child in around age 7 for a free look. Most kids don't need anything yet. Some benefit from a little early help. Either way, you'll know, and it costs nothing to find out.
Early treatment (ages 7 to 10)
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic check by age 7. That's not because most 7-year-olds need braces. It's because at that age we can see how the jaw is growing and how the adult teeth are coming in, while there's still time to guide things.
What early (Phase 1) treatment can help with
- Crowding: making room so adult teeth come in straight instead of stuck
- Crossbites and underbites: guiding jaw growth while it's still easy to guide
- Thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, mouth breathing: habits that push teeth and jaws the wrong way
- Protruding front teeth: lower risk of injury on the playground
Phase 1 might mean an expander, a space maintainer, or partial braces for 9 to 12 months. Then we let the rest of the adult teeth come in and, if needed, do a shorter Phase 2 with full braces as a teen. Many Smile 4 Less families do exactly this.
We also plan treatment with your child's airway and breathing in mind, because how a kid breathes affects how their face and jaws grow.
What if my child doesn't need anything yet?
Then we tell you that. Most kids we see at 7 just need a recheck every 6 to 12 months while we watch things develop. No cost, no pressure.
Braces and Invisalign for teens (ages 11 to 17)
This is prime time for orthodontics. Most adult teeth are in, the jaw is still growing, and treatment tends to go faster than it does for adults.
Options for teens
- Metal braces: the most affordable, handles everything, and colored bands are half the fun.
- Clear braces: same treatment, low-key look. Popular with older teens.
- Invisalign: for responsible teens who'll wear them 22 hours a day. We'll be straight with you about whether it's a good fit.
How long does it take?
Most teens are in braces 12 to 24 months. Keeping appointments, wearing rubber bands as directed, and not snacking on ice keeps it on the shorter end.
No missed school
All three offices are open until 7:30pm, Monday through Friday. Adjustment visits are quick, usually 20 to 30 minutes, and they fit after school, after practice, or after your shift.
What it costs for kids and teens
Braces start as low as $99 a month on our interest-free in-house financing. Your exact payment depends on the plan, and we'll show you the number in writing at your free consultation. Most insurance plans have an orthodontic benefit for kids; we'll check yours. Texas Medicaid does not cover orthodontics, which is exactly why our financing exists. Financing details.
Why parents choose Smile 4 Less
- Real orthodontists who are good with kids, including kids who are nervous or have special needs
- Bilingual team that explains everything to you and your child. Se habla español.
- Three offices around El Paso and Horizon City with late hours
- Kid-friendly waiting areas (yes, there's a game area at the West office)
- Close to home, so those every-6-weeks visits don't turn into a whole day
Kids & teens FAQ
What's the best age for braces?
First check by 7. Braces most often go on between 11 and 14, when most adult teeth are in. Some kids benefit from a short early phase before that. There's no single "right" age, which is why the first visit is free.
Does my child need a referral from the dentist?
No. You can book a free consultation directly. Many families come because a dentist mentioned it, but it's not required.
Will braces hurt my kid?
Getting them on doesn't hurt. Teeth feel sore for a few days afterward and after adjustments. Soft foods and a children's pain reliever handle it, and kids adapt quickly.
Can my teen get braces the same day?
Often, yes. If the exam shows they're ready and you'd like to start, we can usually place braces at the consultation visit.
My kid is nervous. How do you handle that?
Slowly and kindly. Our team explains every step in plain language (in English or Spanish), lets kids see the tools, and never rushes. Dr. Curtis and our other doctors have lots of experience with anxious kids and kids with special needs.
What about sports and instruments?
Both are fine with braces. We'll set your child up with a mouthguard for sports. Instruments take a week or two of adjustment. Details in our care guide.
El Paso families love us
"Their quote was significantly cheaper than other orthodontists we looked into, without sacrificing quality at all. Within a week of the consultation my son was in braces."
"The total cost was very affordable, and they set us up with low monthly payments that easily fit our budget. Skilled, painless, and budget-friendly!"
"Love that they are open late so we don't have to skip school. The staff is super friendly. My daughter loves the way the staff treats her every single time."
Ready for a smile that fits your budget?
Your first visit is free, exam and X-ray included. We'll show you the plan and the price, no pressure.
Find your closest office
Open until 7:30pm so treatment fits around school, work, and everything else.