Parent FAQs

At Ponte Vedra Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we recommend a first orthodontic evaluation around age 7, which aligns with guidelines from the American Association of Orthodontists. At this age, our orthodontists can evaluate jaw growth, bite alignment, spacing, airway concerns, and early crowding—even if no braces are needed yet. Many children in the Nocatee and Ponte Vedra area benefit from simply being monitored until the timing is right.

Crowding, spacing, early or late loss of baby teeth, thumb-sucking habits, difficulty chewing, mouth breathing, or a shifting jaw can be early indicators. Our orthodontic evaluations help determine whether early orthodontics, braces, or monitoring is the best path forward.

Orthodontic appointments at Ponte Vedra Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics are available on Mondays only. We intentionally dedicate Mondays to orthodontic care so our orthodontists are fully present and focused, allowing for consistent treatment planning, adjustments, and follow-up.

Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits, particularly for children and teens. Coverage varies by plan and lifetime maximums, typical insurance may help cover up to $3,000 of orthodontic treatment.(1) Our team will: Verify orthodontic benefits Clearly explain coverage and limitations Help maximize available benefits We handle the details so parents aren’t left guessing. Data from OrthoFi for calendar year 2021, N = 112,243, US patients with dental insurance coverage who used OrthoFi insurance verification tool. Coverage amount averaged $1,772 USD, with 92% qualifying for up to $3,000 USD and 77% qualifying for up to $2,000 USD in coverage for orthodontic treatment. Data on file at Align Technology, as of January 19, 2023.

Most orthodontic patients are seen every 6–10 weeks, depending on the phase of treatment. Because orthodontic care is scheduled on Mondays, our team helps families plan appointments well in advance to minimize school and work disruptions.

Treatment length varies by age and complexity: Phase I treatment: often 6–12 months Comprehensive orthodontic treatment: typically 12–24 months Your orthodontist will provide a personalized timeline and review progress regularly.

Ponte Vedra Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics is a locally owned practice led by Dr. Lindsay Maples, with pediatric and orthodontic care coordinated under one roof for families in Nocatee and Ponte Vedra. Orthodontic treatment is provided by our board-certified orthodontists, Dr. Jessica Crews and Dr. Kelsey Wahl, who focus exclusively on orthodontics—growth and development, early intervention, and complex bite correction. Our pediatric dental team (including Dr. Natalie Smith) supports overall oral health throughout treatment, but orthodontic treatment planning and adjustments are handled by the orthodontic specialists.