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 think, and it often ends with "let's just keep an eye on it."

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Young child during a first orthodontic evaluation at Sytek Ortho in Alpena, MI
Young patient at a first orthodontic evaluation at Sytek Ortho in Alpena, MI

When to come in

When should my child first see an orthodontist?

The general guideline we recommend is to start around age seven. This doesn’t mean your child will need braces early; it’s more about a first look while your child is still growing, so anything that needs attention gets caught with plenty of time to address, and everything else simply gets monitored.

  • How the upper and lower jaws are growing together
  • Whether the bite lines up, or if there's a crossbite, underbite, or early overbite
  • How the adult teeth are coming in, and whether there's room for them
  • Habits like thumb-sucking, mouth breathing, or tongue thrust that shape the palate over time

Phase 1 or wait

Sometimes now, sometimes later.

Portrait of Dr. Lauren Sytek, orthodontist at Sytek Ortho in Alpena, Michigan

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.

Patient consultation at Sytek Ortho in Alpena

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.

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Cost & financing

Honest pricing, out in the open.

See ranges, what's included, and payment plans on our Costs & Financing page. You'll get an exact number for your case at your consultation.

From 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.”

Amelia E.

“My experience with Sytek Ortho has been great! Everybody is always very welcoming and I never leave without a smile on my face!”

Kylie W.

“We are thrilled with the outcome of Parker’s orthodontic care. Dr. Sytek and all of the staff at Sytek Ortho are wonderful.”

Curley Family

“I didn’t like to smile before, but after having braces at Sytek Ortho, I have more confidence with my smile.”

Shawna M

“Dr. Sytek and staff did an amazing job. I love my teeth!”

Bella B.

“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.”

Kamyszek Family

“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.”

Roznowski Family

“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!”

Delayni R.

“My experience with Sytek Ortho was awesome! Everyone there was very kind and helpful. I am very happy, and my teeth look great.”

Darryl H.

“They were all so nice! And brought back my confidence back!”

Lily S.

“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.”

Jazzy W.

“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!”

Riley K.

Book your consultation, get the care you deserve.

Real people. Real treatment. No pressure.