Watching your child grow is a journey filled with milestones, from their first steps to their first lost tooth. As those permanent teeth begin to emerge, many parents start to notice shifts, gaps, or crowding. It is natural to wonder when the right time is to seek professional help. Does your child need braces now, or should you wait until all the baby teeth are gone?

At Unident Dental Group, we specialize in helping families navigate the complexities of dental development. Timing is everything in orthodontics. By understanding the growth patterns of the jaw and the eruption schedule of adult teeth, we can intervene at the precise moment to ensure the most efficient and comfortable treatment possible.

The Golden Rule: The Age Seven Screening

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic evaluation by the age of seven. This might seem surprisingly early, especially since most children still have a mix of baby and adult teeth at this stage. However, age seven is a critical turning point for several reasons.

First, the first permanent molars usually erupt by this age, establishing the "back bite." This allows a specialist at Unident Dental Group to assess the relationship between the upper and lower jaws. Second, we can identify subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth while the primary teeth are still present. While most children will not start active treatment at age seven, this initial visit provides a roadmap for their future oral health.

Phase One vs. Phase Two Treatment

In modern orthodontics, we often talk about "Two-Phase Treatment." This approach is designed to work with your child's natural growth spurts rather than waiting until all dental issues have fully manifested.

Phase One: Interceptive Orthodontics

This phase occurs while a child still has most of their primary teeth. The goal here is not necessarily to straighten every tooth, but to correct structural issues such as a narrow upper jaw, a severe overbite, or a crossbite. By using expanders or partial braces early on, Unident Dental Group can create enough space for permanent teeth to erupt properly. This often prevents the need for tooth extractions or more invasive jaw surgery later in life.

The Resting Period

After Phase One, there is typically a "resting period" where we monitor the child as the remaining permanent teeth come in. Because the jaw was properly shaped in the first phase, the adult teeth usually have a clear path to follow.

Phase Two: Full Braces or Aligners

This phase usually begins around age 11 to 13, once all the permanent teeth are in place. Since the heavy lifting of jaw alignment was handled in Phase One, this stage focuses on the final positioning of the teeth to create that perfect, functional smile.

Braces or Clear Aligners: Which Is Better for Kids?

One of the most common questions we hear at Unident Dental Group is whether children and teens should get traditional metal braces or clear aligners. Both options are highly effective, but they suit different personalities and lifestyles.

• Traditional Metal Braces: These remain the "gold standard" for complex cases. They are durable, and because they are bonded to the teeth, there is no risk of the child losing them or forgetting to wear them. Modern braces are much smaller and more comfortable than they were in the past, and kids often love picking different colors for their elastic bands.
• Clear Aligners (Invisalign): Many older children and teens prefer aligners because they are virtually invisible. They are removable, which makes brushing, flossing, and eating much easier. However, aligners require a high level of discipline. To be effective, they must be worn for at least 22 hours a day. If your child is prone to losing things, traditional braces might be the safer choice.

Signs Your Child Might Need an Orthodontic Evaluation

While the age seven rule is a great guideline, you should contact Unident Dental Group sooner if you notice certain "red flags" in your child’s dental habits or appearance. These include:

• Early or late loss of baby teeth: This can disrupt the timing of adult teeth.
• Difficulty chewing or biting: This often indicates a misalignment of the jaw.
• Mouth breathing: This can sometimes be linked to a narrow palate or airway issues.
• Thumb sucking or finger sucking: If this habit continues past age five, it can significantly alter the shape of the upper jaw and the protrusion of the front teeth.
• Jaws that shift or make sounds: This could indicate a functional bite problem.
• Crowded or misplaced teeth: If there clearly isn't enough room for new teeth to emerge.

The Benefits of Early Orthodontic Care

Beyond just looking better, a straight smile is a healthier smile. When teeth are crowded or overlapped, they are much harder to clean. This increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, even in children. Furthermore, correcting a "bad bite" prevents uneven wear on the tooth enamel and can even alleviate jaw pain or headaches.

When you bring your child to Unident Dental Group, you are investing in more than just aesthetics. You are ensuring that their teeth function correctly, allowing them to speak clearly and eat a varied, healthy diet without discomfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does getting braces hurt?

The process of putting braces on is not painful. For the first few days after an adjustment, the teeth may feel sore or tender to pressure. We usually recommend soft foods and over-the-counter pain relief if needed. Most kids adjust very quickly.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

The duration varies depending on the complexity of the case. On average, most children wear braces or aligners for 18 to 24 months. Phase One treatments are typically much shorter, often lasting only 6 to 12 months.

Can my child still play sports with braces?

Absolutely! However, it is vital to wear a protective mouthguard. We can provide a special orthodontic mouthguard at Unident Dental Group that fits comfortably over braces to protect the lips, cheeks, and teeth from impact.

Will my child need to have teeth pulled?

Our goal is always to avoid extractions whenever possible. By using early interceptive techniques like palatal expanders, we can often create the necessary room in the jaw to accommodate all permanent teeth.

Are aligners as effective as metal braces for kids?

For many cases, yes. Aligners have come a long way and can now treat a wide variety of issues. During your consultation at Unident Dental Group, we will determine if your child’s specific bite alignment is a good candidate for clear aligner therapy.

Start Your Child’s Smile Journey Today

Every child deserves a smile they are proud to show off. By staying proactive and seeking an early evaluation, you can save time, money, and discomfort in the long run. Orthodontic care is a journey, and we are here to support your family every step of the way.

Contact Unident Dental Group for a Consultation!

If your child is around age seven, or if you have noticed any of the signs mentioned above, it is time to visit the experts. At Unident Dental Group, we take a conservative and personalized approach to kids' orthodontics. We prioritize your child's comfort and long-term health above all else.

Give us a call today to schedule an orthodontic screening. Let us help your child achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime!