Early Treatment · San Carlos, CA

Early & Phase 1 Orthodontics for Kids

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic check by age 7. Catching jaw and bite issues while your child grows keeps later treatment shorter and simpler.

Book a Free Consultation
A mother and daughter smiling together
Dr. Chang celebrating with a young patient at the office
What early treatment can do

Small Steps Now. Easier Treatment Later.

  • Guides jaw growth while your child is still developing
  • Makes room for adult teeth with expanders and space maintainers
  • Corrects habits early, before they shape the bite
  • Airway-aware, every exam includes an airway assessment

Tools we use include interceptive orthodontics, expanders, space maintainers, corrective appliances and Invisalign First.

Book a Free Kids Exam
Watchful waiting is a plan too

Sometimes the Right Move Is No Treatment Yet

Early evaluation does not always mean early treatment. Often the best plan is monitoring growth with periodic visits, so treatment starts at exactly the right moment and never sooner.

Dr. Chang treats mostly kids and never recommends treatment a child does not need. That honesty is why Peninsula families keep referring their friends.

Braces for Kids
A child smiling during an orthodontic visit
Dr. Michael Chang, DDS, MS, orthodontist in San Carlos, CA
Your orthodontist

Board-Certified Care From Dr. Michael Chang

Dr. Chang treats mostly kids, and it shows: parents describe visits their children actually look forward to. His airway research means growth, breathing and bite get planned together.

Board-certified orthodontist
UCSF-trained, UCSF faculty
10,000+ smiles transformed
5.0-star rated on Google
Meet Dr. Chang
Free consultation · San Carlos, CA

Book Your Child’s Free First Exam

Our team will call or text to find a time that works around school. The exam, X-rays and growth evaluation are all free, a $199 value.

Rather just call or text?

(650) 598-0888

“We were referred to the office from our dentist for orthodontic care for our teenage daughter. From the first visit we felt seen and heard.”

Jennifer Johnson · Google review

Request My Free Consultation

By submitting, you agree that Chang Orthodontics may call, email or text you about your inquiry. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out. See our Privacy Policy.

No medical details needed here, we'll cover everything at your visit. Your information is never shared.

Common Questions

Does my 7 year old really need a check-up?

A check is not a commitment to treatment. Most kids just get monitored while they grow. The value is catching the few cases where early action prevents bigger issues.

What is a palatal expander like for a child?

Gentler than most parents expect, and modern options include the Invisalign Palatal Expander. Dr. Chang walks your child through everything at their pace.

Is the first visit really free?

Yes. The exam, digital X-rays, growth evaluation and airway assessment are all included, and you leave with a clear recommendation.