Early Treatment
First check-ins, palatal expanders, limited braces, and space maintainers for kids roughly age 6-10.
Orthodontics for kids
Orthodontics for
kids, in Alpena.
Maybe your dentist mentioned it, or a school screening flagged something. Either way, a first visit is easier and calmer than you're picturing, and it often ends with "let's just keep an eye on it."
Book a Consultation
When to come in
When should my child first see an orthodontist?
About age seven is the general guideline. That’s not about starting braces early. It’s about a first look while your child is still growing, so anything that needs attention gets caught in time and everything else simply gets monitored.
Phase 1 or wait
Sometimes now, sometimes later.
A lot of parents come in braced for me to say their seven-year-old needs braces tomorrow. Usually I don't. Some kids benefit from early treatment, and when they do, I'll explain exactly why. Plenty of others just need to be watched as they grow. I'll always tell you which one your child is, even when the answer is "not yet."
Dr. Lauren Sytek
Options for kids
What treatment looks like for younger patients.
When a child does need treatment, it’s tailored to their stage of growth. That might mean early treatment to guide things along now, or a plan to start comprehensive treatment once more adult teeth are in. Dr. Sytek keeps it as simple and short as the case allows.
The first visit
What to expect for your first visit.
The first visit is relaxed and kid-friendly. We take easy photographs and x-rays, no scans on the first visit, Dr. Sytek takes a look, and she explains what she sees in plain language.
Learn moreFrom a parent
What other Alpena parents say.
“You guys were very kind, patient, and friendly. You always took the time to explain everything thoroughly. You were very considerate and made sure that I understood the procedure of what was going on before moving forward.”
“My experience with Sytek Ortho has been great! Everybody is always very welcoming and I never leave without a smile on my face!”
“We are thrilled with the outcome of Parker’s orthodontic care. Dr. Sytek and all of the staff at Sytek Ortho are wonderful.”
“I didn’t like to smile before, but after having braces at Sytek Ortho, I have more confidence with my smile.”
“Dr. Sytek and staff did an amazing job. I love my teeth!”
“We could not be happier with Bently and Emerson’s orthodontic results. The team was incredibly flexible and always available to answer questions. Their treatment experience was positive from start to finish, and their confidence truly shines through their smiles.”
“We’re so happy with the way Noah’s smile turned out and we’re so happy we could do this treatment right here in Alpena. Dr. Kendziorski referred Noah and he’s one of the earlier completed cases with Sytek Ortho.”
“The team at Sytek Ortho is like family to me. They made sure I loved my teeth. They are truly the best people. I miss them!”
“My experience with Sytek Ortho was awesome! Everyone there was very kind and helpful. I am very happy, and my teeth look great.”
“They were all so nice! And brought back my confidence back!”
“I truly love Dr. Sytek. She gave me so much confidence in my smile, and I was treated incredibly well throughout the entire process. The environment was always so welcoming and they always made me feel right at home.”
“I had an amazing experience with Dr. Sytek and the entire orthodontic team. The process was smooth, comfortable, and the results were incredible. I would highly recommend Dr. Sytek to anyone considering orthodontic treatment!”
Book your consultation in under a minute.
No pressure. Real options.
