How to Tell If a Child is in Need of Braces

Posted on 5/15/2026 by NC Pediatric Dentistry

s your child's smile perfectly aligned? Probably not! Most people aren't born with perfectly straight teeth. So, how do you know if your child’s smile could benefit from orthodontic treatment like braces? Here’s a guide to help you spot potential issues and understand when it might be time to consult with a dental professional.

When to Start Looking

It’s generally a good idea to start paying attention to your child's teeth and jaw development around the age of 6 or 7. This is when their first permanent teeth are erupting. While it might seem early, early detection of certain problems can make future treatment easier and sometimes even prevent more complex issues from developing.

Signs to Watch For

Several signs can indicate that your child might need braces. One of the most obvious is crooked or crowded teeth. If teeth are overlapping, twisted, or seem to be growing in at odd angles, it’s a good idea to have them evaluated.

Another thing to look for is spacing issues. Large gaps between teeth might seem harmless, but they can sometimes lead to other dental problems.

Pay attention to your child's bite. An overbite (where the upper front teeth significantly overlap the lower front teeth), an underbite (where the lower front teeth are in front of the upper front teeth), a crossbite (where some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth), or an open bite (where the front teeth don’t touch when the back teeth are closed) can all be corrected with orthodontic treatment.

Observe how your child's jaw functions. Do they have difficulty chewing or biting? Do they complain of jaw pain or clicking sounds when they open and close their mouth? These could be signs of a malocclusion, or misalignment of the teeth and jaws, which could be addressed with braces or other orthodontic appliances.

Mouth breathing can also contribute to orthodontic problems. If your child frequently breathes through their mouth, especially at night, it can affect the development of their jaw and teeth. Thumb sucking or prolonged pacifier use beyond the age of three can also push teeth out of alignment.

What to Do Next

If you notice any of these signs, the best course of action is to schedule a consultation with a dental professional. They can perform a thorough examination, take X-rays, and evaluate your child’s overall oral health to determine if orthodontic treatment is necessary.

Even if you don't see any obvious problems, a check-up is still a good idea. Sometimes, subtle issues can be detected early on, allowing for more effective and less invasive treatment options. Early intervention can guide proper jaw growth and tooth eruption, potentially shortening the duration of treatment needed later on.

The Benefits of a Healthy Smile

A straighter smile isn’t just about aesthetics. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Correcting bite issues can also improve chewing efficiency and speech development. Ultimately, investing in your child’s orthodontic health can lead to a lifetime of healthier and happier smiles.

Doctor Referral

Insurance Information

Education

A BETTER DENTAL EXPERIENCE

NC’s Premier network of pediatric dental practices is committed to delivering a full suite of trusted, comfortable, and informative oral care services. With kid-centric spaces and experiences, we teach kids how to care for their smiles.

Sitemap

NC Pediatric Dentistry, 202 Williamson Rd. Suite 200, Mooresville, NC 28117; tbd; ncpediatricdentistry.com; 5/20/2026; Page Terms:pediatric dentist;