As your child’s teeth develop, you might wonder whether their smile is just “growing in” or if it’s time to think about braces. Crowding, gaps, or bite problems can become more noticeable between ages seven and ten. Identifying orthodontic concerns early can give your child more options—and often more effective, shorter treatments—down the line.
Signs That Braces Might Be Needed
Some signs are easy to spot, while others are more subtle. Keep an eye out for:
-
Crowded or Overlapping Teeth: This can indicate misalignment or a lack of space in the jaw.
-
Gaps Between Teeth: Spaces may suggest missing teeth or uneven spacing due to early loss of baby teeth.
-
Early or Late Loss of Baby Teeth: Timing matters when it comes to how permanent teeth come in.
-
Trouble Biting or Chewing: Difficulty eating may be linked to bite misalignment.
-
Teeth That Stick Out or Don’t Come Together Evenly: Misaligned bites often benefit from orthodontic treatment.
-
Mouth Breathing or Frequent Thumb Sucking: These habits can influence jaw development and tooth position.
-
Jaw Shifts, Clicking, or Popping Sounds: These may signal underlying bite or jaw alignment concerns.
Even if everything looks fine on the surface, there could be alignment concerns developing beneath the gums. That’s why orthodontic evaluations during childhood are so important.
Why Timing Matters
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children have their first orthodontic screening by age seven. At this age, the mix of baby and permanent teeth makes it easier to spot developing issues—and in some cases, guide growth before everything is fully in place. This early look can help prevent more complex issues later.
Early Interventions and Monitoring
Not every child needs braces right away. Some may benefit from space maintainers, expanders, or other appliances that guide jaw development and tooth eruption. Others might simply need periodic monitoring until the time is right for full braces or aligners.
Pediatric Orthodontics at Cary Family Dental in Cary, IL
If you’ve noticed changes in your child’s bite or smile—or if you just want reassurance—Cary Family Dental in Cary, IL is here to help. Dr. Niraj Patel offers comprehensive care with an eye on the future. We’ll evaluate your child’s orthodontic health and explain your options clearly. Schedule a consultation today to see what’s best for your child’s growing smile.