Orthodontics for Kids in Boerne, TX

Looking for a kids' orthodontist near Boerne? At The Kid's Place, orthodontic care is part of what we do every day. Dr. Michael K. Wilkerson, a board-certified pediatric dentist who has cared for Hill Country kids since 1993, offers early interceptive orthodontics, traditional braces, clear aligners for some patients and retainers, all in the same kid-friendly office your child already knows.

Because we see many children for their regular check-ups, we can watch how their teeth, bite and jaw develop over time and spot problems early, while a growing face is easiest to guide.

When Should a Child Have an Orthodontic Check?

Every child should have an orthodontic exam by age 7, sooner if a problem is obvious. At that age, a mix of baby and permanent teeth shows how the bite and jaws are developing. Finding a problem early can mean simpler treatment later, and it can sometimes avoid removing permanent teeth.

Signs it's worth a look sooner:

• Crowded, crooked or overlapping teeth
• Upper and lower teeth that don't meet properly (crossbite, overbite, underbite or open bite)
• Breathing through the mouth, especially while sleeping
• Thumb or finger sucking that continues as permanent teeth come in
• Trouble chewing, or speech concerns
• Baby teeth lost very early or very late

Early Interceptive Orthodontics

Early (Phase 1) orthodontics is treatment for growing children, usually around first to third grade, while the face is growing quickly. Instead of waiting for every baby tooth to fall out, we address specific problems while growth can help.

Early care at The Kid's Place includes:

• Facial growth assessments to monitor how the jaws and face are developing
• Airway assessments to evaluate breathing patterns
• Mouth-breathing evaluation, since breathing through the mouth is linked to crowding and jaw development
• Tongue and lip tie evaluation
• Space management and arch development to make room for permanent teeth

Not every child needs early treatment. Sometimes the right answer is to keep an eye on things at regular check-ups. Our parent guide to early interceptive orthodontics explains when early treatment helps, the appliances involved and what the research says.

Braces for Kids and Teens

Traditional metal braces are still the most common orthodontic treatment, recommended for crooked or crowded teeth, jaw problems and a misaligned bite. Modern brackets are smaller and flatter than they used to be, so they're more comfortable, and kids can choose band colors to show off their style or team spirit.

Clear Aligners

For some patients, Dr. Wilkerson offers clear aligners, a series of nearly invisible, removable trays that gradually move teeth into place. Aligners work best for certain bite and spacing problems and need to be worn most of the day, so they suit some kids and teens better than others. At your consultation, Dr. Wilkerson will tell you whether your child is a good candidate or whether braces are the better fit.

Retainers and After Treatment

When treatment is finished, Dr. Wilkerson will recommend how to keep the new smile in place, including a custom-fitted retainer. If a retainer is lost or broken, call us for a quick replacement.

Your Child's Orthodontic Consultation

The first step is an orthodontic consultation. It is a paid visit that includes a full set of diagnostic records along with Dr. Wilkerson's exam, so you leave with a clear answer: treat now, wait and monitor, or no treatment needed. Our front desk can help you check your insurance's orthodontic benefits, and we offer payment options.

Orthodontic visits happen in the same fun office as your child's check-ups, with arcade games, movies and slushies, and our team also speaks Spanish.

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age should my child see an orthodontist?

Every child should have an orthodontic exam by age 7, or sooner if there's an obvious problem. At The Kid's Place, Dr. Wilkerson checks bite and jaw development as part of your child's regular visits and can do a full orthodontic consultation when needed.

Does The Kid's Place do braces?

Yes. We offer traditional metal braces for kids and teens, with colored bands to choose from, along with early interceptive orthodontics and custom retainers after treatment.

Do you offer clear aligners for kids?

For some patients, yes. Clear aligners work best for certain bite and spacing problems and need to be worn most of the day. Dr. Wilkerson will tell you at your consultation whether aligners or braces are the better fit for your child.

What is early interceptive orthodontics?

It's treatment that starts while a child still has a mix of baby and permanent teeth, usually around first to third grade. It guides jaw growth and addresses problems like crossbites, crowding and space for permanent teeth while the face is still growing. Not every child needs it, and sometimes monitoring is the right choice.

Is the orthodontic consultation free?

No. It's a paid visit that includes a full set of diagnostic records and Dr. Wilkerson's exam, so you get a clear recommendation. Our front desk can help you check your insurance's orthodontic benefits first.