Children's Braces in Flint & Grand Blanc | Wendling Orthodontics
Helping kids and teens throughout Flint, Grand Blanc, and surrounding Mid-Michigan communities get healthy, confident smiles.
From early interceptive treatment to full braces, Dr. Wendling, Dr. Perry and Dr. Nolan develop a customized plan for every child and personally see each patient at every appointment.
- Trusted by families in Mid-Michigan for 27+ years | 5-star rated on Google
Orthodontic Care for Children and Teens
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children be seen by an orthodontist by age 7. That doesn’t mean treatment starts right away. Early evaluation helps us catch problems before they become harder to correct, and we’ll give you an honest assessment rather than push treatment before it’s needed.
- Early evaluation helps guide jaw growth and prevent more complex issues later
- Traditional braces are often the best option for children and teenagers with growing jaws
- Color bands make braces fun, and many teens love coordinating with friends
- Braces work continuously, making them a reliable choice for consistent progress
Not sure if braces or clear aligners are right for your child? Learn about clear aligner therapy
What to Expect, Start to Finish
Every child’s treatment path is a little different. Here’s how the process generally works from your first visit to the day the braces come off.
Free Initial Consultation
We’ll take photos, a digital panoramic x-ray, and often a 3D iTero scan. Dr. Wendling, Dr. Perry, or Dr. Nolan will evaluate your child and walk you through the options. No pressure, no obligation.
A Customized Treatment Plan
We’ll develop a plan specific to your child’s needs, explain the expected timeline, and review payment options so you can move forward feeling confident.
Braces Are Placed
Brackets are bonded to the teeth and connected by archwires. Your child will come in for adjustments every 8 weeks as their teeth gradually shift into position.
Braces Come Off
Once treatment is complete, we remove the braces and fit your child for retainers to keep their new smile in place long-term.
Phase I and Phase II Treatment for Kids
Phase I (Early Interceptive Treatment)
For children ages 7-10 with specific developmental concerns. Phase I typically lasts 6-9 months and focuses on guiding jaw growth and creating space for permanent teeth.
Phase II (Comprehensive Braces)
Full braces for kids and teens, usually starting around ages 11-14 once all permanent teeth have come in. Average treatment time is 12-24 months.
Lingual Braces
Placed on the back of your teeth, making them virtually invisible from the front. Get the same results as traditional braces while remaining hidden from view.
Several payment options are available to help a new smile fit your budget.
Pricing
Have orthodontic insurance?
Great! We will make the most of your insurance dollars!
AS LOW AS
$175-$225
PER MONTH
- Down payment as low as $800-1000
- Eat whatever foods you enjoy
- Easily Removable
- Office visits every 12 weeks
- 12-20 months treatment time
- One of the areas Top Providers
- Safe BPA-Free Material
- Great option for Teens/Adults
Braces
AS LOW AS
$175-$225
PER MONTH
- Down payment as low as $800-1000
- Adjust Teeth 24/7
- Customized Colors
- Office visit every ~6-8 weeks
- 12-24 months treatment time
- One of the areas Top Providers
- Choose Clear or Metal
- Best option for kids
Why Families Choose Wendling Orthodontics for Kids
Braces and Invisalign provider serving families since 1998
Our doctors personally see every patient, every visit
5-star Google rating with 125+ patient reviews
Flexible payment plans starting at $150/month
The Doctors Who Will Care for Your Child
Dr. Lisa K. Wendling, DDS, MS
Dr. Wendling has been treating kids and teens in the Flint area since 1998. She personally sees every patient and takes genuine pride in watching children grow in confidence as their smiles transform.
Dr. Jessica Perry, DDS, MS
Dr. Perry grew up in Grand Blanc and is passionate about caring for the kids and families in the communities she calls home. Her warmth puts even nervous patients at ease.
Dr. Nolan Wendling, DDS, MS
Dr. Nolan Wendling trained at Columbia University and Saint Louis University before returning home to Mid-Michigan to join the practice he grew up around.
What Parents and Patients Are Saying About Us
Frequently Asked Questions About Kids' Braces
At what age should my child first see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first visit by age 7. We generally like to evaluate kids between ages 6 and 10, when the front permanent teeth are starting to come in.
Does my child definitely need Phase I (early) treatment?
Not necessarily. We only recommend Phase I when it offers a clear benefit for that child specifically. Many kids simply wait until all permanent teeth are in. Our doctors will evaluate your child and give you an honest recommendation.
How long does orthodontic treatment typically take for kids?
Phase I usually lasts 6-9 months. Full braces typically take 12-24 months, though treatment time varies by patient. We’ll give you a personalized timeline at your consultation.
What should we do if my child's bracket breaks or falls off?
If a bracket comes off during office hours, your child can come in that same day. We’ll take care of it quickly so treatment stays on track.
Will my child need retainers once the braces come off?
Yes. After treatment, we provide a removable clear retainer for the upper teeth and lower teeth if treatment was completed in those areas. Consistent retainer wear is essential to maintaining the results long-term.
Does dental insurance typically cover braces for children?
Many dental plans include orthodontic benefits. We work with Delta Dental, Blue Cross, Cigna, Principal, Aetna, and others, and will help verify your coverage before treatment begins.
Serving Families Throughout Mid-Michigan
We have two convenient offices in Flint and Grand Blanc, and we treat patients from communities across the region.
Flint | Grand Blanc | Swartz Creek | Davison | Fenton | Burton | Lansing | Saginaw | Bay City | Ann Arbor | Chesaning | Owosso | Millington | Lapeer | Corunna
A Comfortable Office for Kids and Parents
Free Coffee Bar
Complimentary coffee is available at both the Flint and Grand Blanc offices while you wait.
Parent Workspaces
Bar-style seating at both offices gives parents a comfortable place to work or stay productive during the visit.
Modern Office Design
Our Grand Blanc location features a beautifully designed, welcoming space, including a statement wall that’s become a patient favorite for photos.
Fun Contests
Patients can enter fun contests after appointments for a chance to win prizes.
Clean, Safe Environment
HEPA filters and ionization machines help keep the air clean. We thoroughly sanitize between every patient.
Ready to Schedule Your Child's Free Consultation?
The first step is a no-obligation visit where we evaluate your child and walk you through exactly what we see. Honest guidance, no pressure.
GIVE US A CALL
Flint Office: (810) 733-3410 Grand Blanc Office: (810) 214-3711
WORKING HOURS
Monday-Thursday: 8:00am-5:00pm Friday: 7:30am-1:00pm