Orthodontics for Kids & Teens
Early orthodontic evaluations can make an important difference in your child's growing smile. Identifying developing concerns early allows our orthodontist to monitor the growth of the teeth and jaws and determine the right time for treatment, which may help prevent more complex orthodontic problems in the future.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic check-up by age seven. At this age, children typically have a combination of baby and permanent teeth, giving an orthodontist an opportunity to identify concerns that may not yet be noticeable. An early evaluation doesn't always mean early treatment. It simply allows us to monitor your child's development and recommend treatment at the time that will benefit them most.
One Office, Complete Care
Children's dentistry and orthodontics together in one convenient place at our Jacksonville locations.
State Insurance & PPO Plans
We accept a variety of PPO and state-funded dental plans, including Liberty, DentaQuest, and MCNA.
Dupont & Gateway Locations
Orthodontic services available at our Dupont location and upcoming Gateway office.
Board-Certified Orthodontist
Dr. John Nuveen
Meet Your Orthodontist
Dr. John Nuveen
Originally from North Dakota, Dr. John Nuveen relocated to the East Coast for college at Colgate University, where he received his Bachelor of Arts in cellular neuroscience and Spanish. He then attended dental school at Temple University in Philadelphia, PA, and graduated summa cum laude with his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree.
As a dental student, Dr. Nuveen was awarded the Dean's Award for Exemplary Care for Patients, the Philadelphia County Dental Society Student Award, the William S. Kramer Award of Excellence, and was selected into the prestigious Omicron Kappa Upsilon Honor Society.
Dr. Nuveen developed a passion for teaching during dental school and served as the lead tutor for all pre-clinical science and laboratory courses. Determined to follow in his father's and grandfather's footsteps, he continued his training at Temple University's Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics two-year residency program, where he received his specialty certificate in orthodontics and a Master of Science in oral health sciences.
Dr. Nuveen is a board-certified orthodontist and member of the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO), a voluntary process achieved by only 61% of practicing orthodontists. This represents his dedication to upholding and elevating the clinical and diagnostic standards and quality of care in orthodontics.
Outside of the office, Dr. Nuveen enjoys spending time with his wife, Elizabeth, their new baby, and their cat, Raya. When he's not enjoying time with his growing family, he likes weightlifting and running, watching hockey and Formula 1 racing, cooking, and exploring his new hometown of Jacksonville, where much of his family now lives.
Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces are a trusted and effective orthodontic treatment for children and teens. Using gentle, consistent pressure, braces gradually move the teeth into better alignment while helping correct bite concerns and create a healthier, more confident smile.
At our Jacksonville Smiling Kidds locations, board-certified orthodontist Dr. John Nuveen provides personalized orthodontic care based on each patient's unique needs and stage of development. Metal braces remain one of the most reliable and affordable options for correcting a wide range of orthodontic concerns, making them a great choice for many children, teens, and families.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
A healthy, confident smile is just one of the many benefits of orthodontic care. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic evaluation by age seven, allowing concerns with tooth alignment, jaw growth, and bite to be identified early and monitored as your child grows.
Proper Jaw Alignment
Proper jaw alignment supports a healthy, functional bite. Early orthodontic care can help identify and address concerns with jaw growth, crowding, and tooth alignment as your child develops.
Healthier Teeth
Improved tooth alignment can make brushing and flossing easier, helping reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum problems while supporting better oral health.
Improved Confidence
At Smiling Kidds, we know there's something special about a confident smile. Straighter teeth can help children and teens feel more comfortable sharing their smiles and feeling good about the way they look.
Better Facial Profile
Proper jaw and tooth alignment can support balanced facial development and a confident smile as children grow through adolescence and into adulthood.
The Process of Applying Braces
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. At our Jacksonville locations, we monitor your child's developing teeth and bite during routine dental visits, making it easy to connect with Dr. Nuveen when an orthodontic evaluation or treatment is recommended.
Orthodontic Evaluation
Dr. Nuveen will carefully evaluate your child's teeth, bite, and jaw development to determine whether orthodontic treatment is needed and create a personalized plan designed for their growing smile.
Bracket Placement
Brackets are carefully placed on the teeth and connected by a thin orthodontic wire that gently guides the teeth into their desired positions over time.
Gradual Movement
As treatment progresses, the brackets and wires apply gentle, controlled pressure to gradually move the teeth into proper alignment and improve the bite.
Treatment Duration
The length of orthodontic treatment varies for each patient and depends on factors such as tooth movement, bite correction, and individual treatment needs. Dr. Nuveen will provide an estimated treatment timeline as part of your personalized orthodontic plan.
Orthodontic Appliances & Treatment Options
Braces are only one part of orthodontic treatment. Dr. Nuveen may recommend additional orthodontic appliances to help guide jaw growth, create or maintain space, correct bite concerns, and support tooth movement throughout treatment.
Select an appliance to view care instructions and what to expect.
Insurance
Orthodontic Insurance FAQs
PPO plans have a lifetime orthodontic maximum allowance per child.
Most PPO plans do not cover the cost of orthodontic treatment at 100%.
State-funded insurance plans require orthodontic treatment to be medically necessary.
Less than 10% of orthodontic cases are covered by Medicaid.
Be sure to research your insurance benefits so that we can maximize your coverage and reduce your out-of-pocket cost for your child's orthodontic care.
Affordability
Affordable Payment Plans
Ready to Start Your Child's Orthodontic Journey?
Schedule an orthodontic consultation with Dr. Nuveen today. We accept PPO and state-funded dental plans and offer affordable payment options to make orthodontic care more accessible for families.
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