Jan 27, 2026
Kids’ Braces FAQ: Your Top Questions Answered For 2026
Thinking about braces for your child can feel like a big step, especially if this is your first time navigating orthodontics. You want to know when to start, what it costs, how sore it might be, and what appointments involve. You also want to know what has changed for 2026.
At Specialist Orthodontic Practice (SOP), our Specialist Orthodontists care for children across Dublin with a calm, friendly approach and the latest digital technology. This FAQ gives you clear, practical answers so you can make confident choices and shows you exactly how to book when you are ready.
When Should I Worry About My Child’s Teeth?
A good rule is to book a Specialist Orthodontist assessment around ages seven to eight. At this stage, your child has a mix of baby and adult teeth, which allows us to spot crowding, bite issues and habits such as thumb sucking that may affect growth.
An early review does not always mean early braces. In many cases, we simply monitor growth through our Pre-Orthodontic Guidance Programme and begin treatment at the ideal time.
Book an assessment sooner if you notice:
- Crowded or overlapping front teeth
- An underbite or crossbite
- Teeth that meet in an unusual way or do not meet at all
- Speech difficulties, mouth breathing or ongoing thumb sucking
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
Early guidance can prevent problems becoming more complex later. Where needed, a simple functional appliance may be used to guide jaw growth before fixed braces or aligners in the teen years.
What Is The Best Age To Start Braces?
There is no single perfect age. Many children begin comprehensive treatment between 11 and 14, once most adult teeth have erupted. Some children benefit from a two-phase approach - an early phase to correct a developing bite issue, followed by braces or aligners later.
The key is a personalised plan based on growth, tooth development and your child’s needs.
What Do Braces Appointments Look Like At SOP?
Your journey usually starts with a free pre-consultation with our Treatment Coordinator. This is a relaxed way to discuss concerns and understand options.
If you wish to proceed, we arrange a clinical consultation with our Specialist Orthodontist, Dr Finn Geoghegan. We use comfortable digital scans instead of messy impressions, alongside photographs and a bite assessment. You receive a clear plan, an estimated timeline and an outline of fees.
Fitting day is calm and well paced. For fixed braces, we explain each step, place brackets and fit the wire. Your child can choose colours if they wish. For aligners, we show your child how to insert, remove and clean them.
Most reviews are short in-practice visits or remote check-ins using the Dental Monitoring app. Remote monitoring means less time off school and quick feedback from our team.
Will Braces Hurt?
Mild to moderate tenderness is normal for two to three days after fitting and after some adjustments. Children usually describe it as pressure or tightness.
Helpful tips include:
- Soft foods such as yogurt, pasta, eggs and mashed potatoes
- Over-the-counter pain relief as advised by your pharmacist
- Orthodontic wax on any rubbing areas
- Warm salt water rinses
Discomfort should ease quickly. If something is poking or rubbing, contact us and we will help.
How Long Will My Child Need Treatment?
Most comprehensive treatments last around 14 to 24 months, depending on complexity and cooperation. Early interceptive treatments may be much shorter, while complex cases can take longer.
You will receive a personalised estimate after assessment. Dental Monitoring helps keep treatment on track by allowing us to spot small issues early and guide adjustments between visits.
How Much Do Braces Cost?
Fees depend on appliance choice and the complexity of your child’s case. After the clinical consultation, you receive a written quote.
Many families choose monthly payment plans at no extra charge, which makes treatment easier to manage. If you are comparing options in Dublin, our team will explain what is included - such as retainers and remote monitoring - so you can compare like with like.
Fixed Braces Or Clear Aligners - Which Is Right For My Child?
Both can work beautifully when planned and supervised by a Specialist Orthodontist.
- Fixed braces are reliable for a wide range of cases and do not rely on remembering to wear them.
- Clear aligners are discreet and removable for meals and brushing, which many teens prefer.
At SOP, many aligners are designed and produced in-house from digital scans, making them precise and convenient. Suitability depends on your child’s bite, habits and ability to wear aligners as prescribed.
What Foods Are Safe With Braces?
Choose soft, easy-to-chew foods, especially during the first few days. Avoid hard, sticky and crunchy snacks that can break brackets or bend wires, including popcorn, whole nuts, toffee, hard sweets and crusty bread ends.
Encourage brushing after meals and use interdental brushes to keep braces clean. For aligners, always remove them to eat, brush before reinserting, and avoid sugary or fizzy drinks with aligners in place.
What Is New In Children’s Orthodontic Treatment For 2026?
Three advances are making treatment easier for families:
Digital-First Care
High-resolution intraoral scanning improves comfort and accuracy. Many appliances are planned digitally and produced in-house, reducing waiting times.
Upgraded Remote Monitoring
The Dental Monitoring app now includes ScanAssist guidance, helping children capture accurate scans at home. Clinicians review progress frequently, reducing unnecessary visits.
Faster In-House Production
With 3D printing and a dedicated lab team, aligners, retainers and some appliances can be produced quickly - ideal for busy school schedules or urgent retainer needs.
How Do I Book A Consultation At SOP?
Booking is easy. Start with a free pre-consultation. If you wish to proceed, we arrange your child’s clinical consultation with Dr Finn Geoghegan and confirm current fees. We offer appointments in Glenageary and Dublin city centre.
Final Tips For Parents
- Start with an early review, even if treatment begins later
- Keep a small braces kit in your child’s schoolbag - toothbrush, interdental brushes, toothpaste and orthodontic wax
- Stick to soft foods for a few days after fittings or adjustments
- Use the Dental Monitoring app to stay connected between visits
Ready To Get Started?
If your child may benefit from orthodontic care in 2026, we would love to meet you. Book your free pre-consultation today and see how our calm approach, digital tools and friendly team make treatment simpler for busy families.
From the first scan to the final retainer, Specialist Orthodontic Practice is here to help your child smile with confidence.
