What do braces look like?

Braces, a type of orthodontic appliance, are made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. Some are removable, while others are temporarily bonded to your teeth. You can choose clear or metal brackets and, in some cases, even the color of your appliance.

At first, your teeth may feel a bit sore, and your lips, cheeks, and tongue may be irritated for a couple of weeks. Gargling with saltwater, using wax on irritating parts, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help during this time.

What foods should I avoid with braces?

Avoid chewy foods like bagels, licorice, and beef jerky; crunchy foods like popcorn, chips, and ice; sticky foods like caramels, gum, and taffy; hard foods like nuts and hard candies; and foods that require biting into like corn on the cob, apples, and carrots.

What foods can I eat with braces?

Enjoy: soft dairy items like cheese and pudding; soft breads, pancakes, and muffins without nuts; grains like pasta and soft-cooked rice; soft meats such as chicken and meatballs; seafood like tuna or salmon; vegetables like mashed potatoes or steamed spinach; fruits such as applesauce or bananas; and soft treats like ice cream without nuts or milkshakes.

Is it normal for my braces to feel loose?

No. If any wire or band comes loose, please contact us so we can make necessary repairs. Save any pieces that fall off and bring them in. You can temporarily reposition a loose wire with the back of a spoon or pencil and buffer irritation with wax or a wet cotton ball.

Braces place a constant, gentle force in a controlled direction, gradually moving teeth into their desired position.

How long do you wear braces?

Treatment time varies by age, method, case complexity, and patient compliance. Most people wear braces for one to three years, and your personalized treatment plan will include an estimated duration.

Is it normal for my teeth to feel loose?

Yes. Teeth need to loosen slightly before they can move into the correct position. Once aligned, they naturally settle into place and feel stable again.

Can I still play sports with braces?

Absolutely. We recommend wearing a mouthguard to protect your teeth and braces. If your appliance is damaged or your teeth feel loose after an injury, call us right away for an evaluation.

Expert orthodontics for children in Ames & Boone, IA

Give Your Child’s Smile a Strong Start

At Stark Smiles Orthodontics, we believe every child deserves to grow up smiling with confidence. From your child’s very first orthodontic evaluation to the day their new smile is finally revealed, Dr. Tom and Dr. Michael Stark are with your family every step of the way, with a people-first approach, flexible payment options, and a kid-friendly office that turns nervous first visits into fun ones.

Schedule a Consultation

Expert orthodontics for children in Ames & Boone, IA

Give Your Child’s Smile a Strong Start

At Stark Smiles Orthodontics, we believe every child deserves to grow up smiling with confidence. From your child’s very first orthodontic evaluation to the day their new smile is finally revealed, Dr. Tom and Dr. Michael Stark are with your family every step of the way, with a people-first approach, flexible payment options, and a kid-friendly office that turns nervous first visits into fun ones.

Schedule a Consultation

Understanding Phase 1 (Early) Orthodontic Treatment

For some children, early, or “Phase 1”, treatment is recommended to address a specific issue while the jaw is still growing and most responsive to gentle guidance. Phase 1 treatment typically begins between ages 7 and 10 and may include:

Palatal expanders: gently widen a narrow upper jaw to create room for permanent teeth and improve how the bite fits together
Space maintainers: hold open the space left by a prematurely lost baby tooth so permanent teeth can erupt where they belong
Partial or limited braces: address a specific tooth or a small group of teeth that need early correction
Habit-breaking appliances: gently correct thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting habits before they affect permanent teeth

Not every child needs Phase 1 treatment, and we will never recommend more than your child actually needs. If early treatment isn’t necessary yet, we’ll simply keep an eye on their smile through complimentary growth-monitoring visits until they’re ready for full treatment, often called Phase 2, which typically happens in the early teen years.

Treatment Options for Kids

When treatment is recommended, we offer a range of options to fit your child’s smile, comfort level, and personality:

Traditional metal braces: reliable, effective, and more comfortable than ever, now with fun color-band options kids love
Clear or ceramic braces: a more discreet option for older kids who want a subtler look
Invisalign First®: a clear aligner system designed specifically for growing smiles, ideal for certain younger patients
Other orthopedic appliances: guide jaw growth and create space for erupting teeth
Retainers: protect your child’s new smile once active treatment is complete

Dr. Tom and Dr. Michael will walk you through every option in plain language, so you can choose the treatment plan that’s the best fit for your child, and for your family’s budget.

When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7, even if their smile looks perfectly fine. At this age, most kids have a mix of baby and adult teeth, which gives Dr. Tom or Dr. Michael a clear window into how their bite and jaw are developing.

Don’t worry, an early evaluation doesn’t mean early treatment. Most children we see at this stage simply need a little monitoring as their smile continues to grow. But for the kids who could benefit from early intervention, catching it now often means a shorter, simpler treatment plan later.

Signs Your Child May Need Orthodontic Treatment

Not sure if it’s time for a visit? Here are some of the most common orthodontic issues parents in Ames and Boone bring their kids in to see us:

Baby teeth that fall out very early or hang on much longer than expected
Crowded, crooked, or overlapping teeth
Difficulty biting or chewing food comfortably
Thumb-sucking, finger-sucking, or pacifier habits that continue past age 5
Jaws that shift, click, or make sounds when your child opens and closes their mouth
Teeth that don’t meet properly, or front teeth that protrude noticeably
Mouth breathing or speech difficulties

If any of these sound familiar, it doesn’t automatically mean your child needs braces, but it is a great reason to schedule a consultation so we can take a closer look together.

The Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment

Guides jaw growth and creates room for permanent teeth to come in correctly
Reduces the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and impacted teeth
Improves chewing, speech, and breathing
Can shorten or simplify orthodontic treatment down the road
Corrects harmful habits, like thumb-sucking, before they cause lasting damage
Builds your child’s confidence at an age when self-esteem is still forming

The Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment

Most kids feel insecure about something: their grades, their coordination in gym class, or their clothing. When they’re self-conscious about their teeth, their self-esteem suffers, and they start to hide their smile, or stop smiling altogether. As a result, teachers and classmates may perceive them as shy and reserved, or even unfriendly. Effective, early orthodontic care will bring out your child’s best smile, so they feel confident and happy again.

Schedule a Consultation

What to Expect at Your Child’s First Visit

We know a trip to the orthodontist can feel like a big deal for a child and maybe for you, too. That’s why we’ve built a warm, kid-friendly environment at both our Ames and Boone offices, one that turns nervous first visits into genuinely fun ones. Your child’s first visit includes a complimentary exam, digital imaging if needed, and plenty of time for Dr. Tom or Dr. Michael to answer every question on your list. Three Steps to a Selfie-Worthy Smile

1. Schedule a Consultation:

Dr. Tom or Dr. Michael will meet with you and your child, determine if orthodontic treatment is the best next step, and answer all your questions.

2. Get a Customized Plan:

Your child deserves a personalized plan built around their unique smile, and affordable payment options that fit your family’s budget. You’ll never feel like just a number.

3. Watch Your Child's Confidence Grow:

As we gently guide your child’s smile into place, self-consciousness fades, and confidence takes over. (So many selfies!) You’ll love watching them love their smile.

Schedule a Consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age should my child first see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, most children have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, which lets Dr. Tom or Dr. Michael spot developing issues early, even if treatment isn’t needed for a few more years.

Does my 7-year-old really need braces already?

Not necessarily, an early evaluation is about monitoring, not automatically starting treatment. Most 7-year-olds we see simply need their smile watched as it develops. Only a smaller number benefit from early (Phase 1) treatment, and we’ll always explain exactly why before recommending it.

What is Phase 1 orthodontic treatment, and does my child need it?

Phase 1 treatment is early, targeted treatment, usually between ages 7 and 10, that guides jaw growth or corrects a specific issue like crowding or a harmful habit while your child’s jaw is still developing. Not every child needs it. We’ll only recommend Phase 1 treatment if it will genuinely benefit your child’s long-term smile.

How much does children's orthodontic treatment cost, and is it covered by insurance?

Cost depends on your child’s specific needs and treatment plan, which is exactly why we build a customized plan (and walk you through financing) at your first free consultation. Our team will help you understand your benefits and explore flexible, affordable payment options.

Will early orthodontic treatment mean my child won't need braces again as a teen?

Will early orthodontic treatment mean my child won’t need braces again as a teen?

"

Exceptional care from beginning to end. The staff is all so friendly and truly seem to care, especially Dr. Tom. My daughter has felt at ease since our first visit!

Stephanie S. (Ames, IA)

"

All 3 of my boys have been patients here and we couldn’t be happier with the service or the results of their orthodontic treatment!

Sara I. (Ames, IA)

"

Dr. Stark takes a personal interest in each patient. I have no idea how he keeps them all straight but he always inquires about their hobbies, families, etc. He gives his full attention when visiting with parents at each appointment.

Rita H. (Ames, IA)

testimonials

Happy Clients

We’ve served thousands of patients, and each one is like family to us. We love celebrating their new smiles!

Meet the Doctors Behind Your Child’s Smile

Every treatment plan at Stark Smiles is guided by Dr. Tom and Dr. Michael Stark, a father-son team with a shared passion for young smiles. Dr. Tom has spent nearly four decades helping more than 10,000 patients love their smile, is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, and serves as an adjunct associate professor at the University of Iowa. Dr. Michael brings fresh, modern training, including a Master of Science in Oral Biology from Texas A&M, and a natural gift for putting nervous first-time patients at ease.

Schedule a Consultation

Ready to start your Stark Smiles journey?

Schedule a Consultation

Ames Office

1212 Duff Ave
Ames, IA 50010

(515) 232-2255
(888) 402-2255

Get Directions

Boone Office

703 8th St
Boone, IA

(515) 432-4522

Get Directions