When Should Kids Get Orthodontic Treatment? A Parent's Guide
As a parent, you want the best for your child's smile. You might be watching their teeth come in and wondering, "Are they too crooked? Is this normal? When should I do something about it?" The good news is you don't have to figure it out alone. At Mantena Dental in El Dorado Hills, we welcome patients of all ages — from toddlers to teens — and we accept a wide range of insurance plans including Delta Dental, Cigna, MetLife, and Aetna. That means we can provide trusted, accessible guidance on when should kids get orthodontic treatment, right in our community.
What Is the Right Age to Start Orthodontic Treatment for Kids?
The short answer: it depends on your child's individual growth and tooth development. Most children are not ready for braces or aligners until all permanent teeth are in. But the evaluation happens much earlier. Knowing when should kids get orthodontic treatment is about catching problems while the jaw is still growing, which can make treatment easier and more effective.
What the American Association of Orthodontists Recommends
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child see an orthodontist by age 7. At this age, the first permanent molars and incisors have usually come in, giving the dentist a clear picture of how the bite is developing. This early visit does not always lead to treatment. Often it just gives parents peace of mind that everything is on track.
Signs Your Child May Need an Earlier Evaluation
Some alignment issues are obvious early on. If you notice any of these signs, schedule a consultation sooner than age 7:
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Teeth that don't meet when the mouth is closed
- Thumb sucking past age 5
- Speech difficulties related to tongue placement
- Teeth that stick out or are crowded in odd ways
- Jaw clicking or shifting when opening or closing
Even if you're not sure, a simple orthodontic screening can answer your questions. At Mantena Dental, we offer evaluations as part of our children's dentistry and orthodontics services.
Common Tooth Alignment Problems in Children and What They Mean
Crowding and Spacing Issues
Crowding happens when there isn't enough room for teeth to line up straight. It can cause overlapping, twisting, or teeth that come in behind others. Spacing issues, on the other hand, leave gaps that can trap food and affect the bite. Both are common and treatable.
Overbite, Underbite, and Crossbite — What Parents Should Know
- Overbite: Upper front teeth cover too much of the lower front teeth. This can wear down enamel and cause jaw pain.
- Underbite: Lower teeth sit in front of upper teeth. It can make chewing difficult and affect the shape of the face.
- Crossbite: Some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth instead of outside. It can lead to uneven jaw growth and tooth wear.
These problems don't always fix themselves. When should kids get orthodontic treatment for bite issues? Often earlier is better because the jaw is still growing and easier to guide.
Jaw Development Concerns That Affect Alignment
Sometimes the upper or lower jaw grows too narrow or too wide. This can cause teeth to come in crooked or the bite to be off. An orthodontist can recommend expanders or other devices to help the jaw grow properly.
Early Orthodontics vs. Waiting: What's the Difference?
Deciding between early treatment and waiting until all permanent teeth have come in depends on your child's specific needs. Here's a comparison to help you understand the two approaches.
| Feature | Early (Phase 1) Treatment | Standard (Phase 2) Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Typical age range | 7–10 years old | 11–14 years old |
| Primary goal | Guide jaw growth and correct bite problems | Straighten all permanent teeth |
| Treatment duration | 6–12 months | 12–24 months |
| Devices used | Palatal expanders, partial braces, retainers | Full braces or Invisalign |
| Whether a second phase is needed | Yes, almost always followed by Phase 2 | No, it is the main treatment |
Early treatment is not for everyone. It is recommended when a child has a crossbite, severe crowding, or a narrow jaw that needs expansion. For many kids, waiting until all permanent teeth are in is perfectly fine. We can discuss both options during a consultation.
Kids' Crooked Teeth — When to See a Dentist vs. When to Wait
If you notice your child's teeth look crooked, don't panic. Some mild crowding is normal as baby teeth fall out and permanent teeth erupt. But if crooked teeth are causing problems like difficulty eating, speech issues, or your child is self-conscious about their smile, it's time to see a dentist. A general checkup at Mantena Dental can determine if an orthodontic referral is needed. We often see children for routine exams and can flag alignment issues early.
Orthodontic Options for Children in El Dorado Hills
At Mantena Dental, we offer treatments that work for kids and teens, including:
- Braces: Traditional metal braces are still a reliable choice for complex cases.
- Invisalign®: Clear aligners that are removable and less noticeable. We offer Invisalign for teens and sometimes for younger patients with guidance.
- Palatal expanders: Used in Phase 1 to widen the upper jaw.
- Retainers: To hold results after treatment.
You can read more about how Invisalign works alongside other devices in our blog post on Invisalign and palate expanders. For older children and teens who struggle with misalignment, we also have a guide on Invisalign in El Dorado Hills.
Many families have orthodontic coverage through their dental insurance. We work with major carriers and offer flexible payment plans. Visit our insurance and financing page to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends age 7 for a first screening. This visit helps identify any developing issues with jaw growth or tooth alignment.
Yes. Baby teeth act as placeholders. If a baby tooth is lost too early, nearby teeth can drift, causing crowding. This is why regular checkups are important.
No. Many children do not need Phase 1 treatment. Early treatment is reserved for specific bite problems or crowding that could get worse over time.
Many plans include orthodontic benefits for children. Mantena Dental accepts Delta Dental, Cigna, Aetna, MetLife, and more. We also offer financing options to help make treatment affordable. *** Not sure if your child needs orthodontic care? We're here to help. At Mantena Dental in El Dorado Hills, we offer a comfortable, judgment-free environment for kids of all ages.
Ready to Schedule Your Visit?
New patients are always welcome. Schedule your consultation today — we look forward to meeting you.