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About Us
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Treatment Options
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Technology
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Our Locations
Racine
New location coming to the Racine area soon!
Coming Soon
When should my child
see an orthodontist?
One of the most common questions parents ask — and one with a clear answer. Earlier than most people think.
Catching problems early
changes everything.
An early evaluation doesn't mean early treatment. It means Dr. Valeri or Dr. O'Connell gets a clear picture of how your child's teeth and jaw are developing — and can act at exactly the right moment.
Signs your child may need
an evaluation.
You don't need to wait until age 7 if you notice any of these. Schedule an evaluation sooner if your child shows signs like these.
Simple, quick, and completely free.
An early orthodontic evaluation at Valeri Orthodontics takes about 30 minutes. Here's what to expect.Orthodontic care at every stage.
Phase One treatment
Early or "Phase One" treatment addresses specific problems before all permanent teeth have erupted — things like severe crossbites, significant crowding, or jaw discrepancies. Not every child needs Phase One, but for those who do it can dramatically simplify later treatment.
Comprehensive treatment
The most common time to start braces or Invisalign. All permanent teeth are in, the jaw is still responsive to treatment, and most teenagers are highly motivated to finish quickly. Metal braces, clear braces, and Invisalign are all great options at this stage.
It's never too late
One in four orthodontic patients today is an adult. Braces and Invisalign work at any age — and many adult patients are thrilled by how much their smile affects their confidence. Payment plans make it accessible for every budget.
Early orthodontics FAQ
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first evaluation by age 7. By this age enough permanent teeth have erupted and jaw development is underway to spot potential issues early.
Not necessarily — and most don't. The goal is early detection, not early treatment. If no issues are found, we simply monitor your child periodically. If something needs attention, we act at exactly the right time.
A simple 30-minute visit where Dr. Valeri or Dr. O'Connell examines your child's teeth, bite, and jaw development, reviews x-rays, and walks you through their findings. Completely free, no pressure.
Crowded or overlapping teeth, early or late loss of baby teeth, difficulty chewing, mouth breathing, thumb sucking past age 5, overbite, underbite, crossbite, or teeth that don't meet properly when the mouth is closed.
Yes — completely free, no obligation. We serve families in Kenosha, Pleasant Prairie, Oak Creek, and all of southeastern Wisconsin from our two convenient offices.
Absolutely not. Whether your child is 10, 14, or your "child" is 35 — it's never too late for a great smile. Come in for a free evaluation and we'll discuss the best options for your situation.
Book your child's free
evaluation today.
No pressure, no obligation. Just a clear picture of your child's orthodontic health — completely free.
Two convenient locations.
Serving Kenosha, Pleasant Prairie, Oak Creek, and all of southeastern Wisconsin.