Some signs your child needs braces are easy to spot, like crowded or crooked front teeth. Others are subtle, such as mouth breathing or baby teeth that fall out on an unusual schedule. Here are seven to watch for, plus why a visit around age 7 is the simplest way to know for sure.
Dr. Tara Gostovich offers complimentary evaluations for children in Marlboro, NJ. Book a visit or read more about our approach to children’s orthodontics.
7 signs your child needs braces
Spotting one of these doesn’t mean treatment has to start right away. It means it’s worth having an orthodontist take a look.
- 1. Crowded or crooked teethOverlapping teeth, or not enough room for adult teeth to come in straight.
- 2. Unusual tooth lossBaby teeth that fall out much earlier or later than expected can affect spacing.
- 3. Front teeth that stick outProtruding upper teeth are more likely to chip during play or sports.
- 4. Lower teeth in frontLower teeth closing ahead of the uppers can point to an underbite or crossbite.
- 5. Teeth that don’t meetA gap between the upper and lower front teeth when your child bites down.
- 6. Mouth breathing or snoringSometimes linked to a narrow upper jaw or airway concerns worth checking.
- 7. A lingering thumb habitThumb or finger sucking as adult teeth arrive can push them out of place.
Are crooked teeth in kids always a problem?
Not always. Mildly crooked teeth in kids can improve a little as the jaw grows and more adult teeth arrive. Gaps between baby teeth are normal too, because they leave room for larger permanent teeth.
The pattern is what matters. Severe crowding, teeth erupting in the wrong spot or a bite that pushes the jaw sideways are stronger signs your child needs braces, because they rarely sort themselves out.
When do kids need braces?
Most kids who need full braces or aligners start once most permanent teeth are in, often in the tween or early teen years.
Some children benefit from earlier Phase 1 treatment, such as a palatal expander to widen a narrow upper jaw. So when do kids need braces? It really depends on the child, which is why the first visit matters.
Why is an early orthodontic evaluation recommended?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist by age 7. By then, permanent molars and front teeth are usually coming in, so bite and jaw issues start to show.
An age 7 orthodontic evaluation is mostly about planning. Often the outcome is simply, “Everything looks good. Let’s check again later.” And if you notice signs your child needs braces before then, there’s no reason to wait for a birthday.
What happens at the visit?
- ✓A gentle exam of the teeth, bite and jaw growth
- ✓A quick iTero 3D scan in place of goopy impressions
- ✓A clear answer: treat now, monitor growth or no treatment needed
- ✓Time for your questions, with no obligation
Many parents are surprised by how relaxed an early orthodontic evaluation feels. Kids usually enjoy watching their teeth appear in 3D on the screen.
What if treatment is recommended?
Options may include Invisalign First for ages about 6 to 10, the removable Invisalign Palatal Expander or another growth-modifying appliance. Older kids can choose LightForce ceramic braces or Invisalign. Compare them on our orthodontic treatments page.
Cost depends on the type and length of treatment. Our team coordinates insurance and offers interest-free monthly plans, and you can estimate payments with our payment calculator.
Why see Dr. Gostovich?
If you’ve been searching for a kids orthodontist in Marlboro, NJ, Dr. Tara Gostovich is certified by the American Board of Orthodontics and recognized by Top Dentists NJ. Parents have given the practice a 4.9-star rating across more than 165 Google reviews.
Once treatment begins, remote DentalMonitoring check-ins mean fewer school-day appointments, which busy parents appreciate.
Frequently asked questions
Can my child’s dentist tell me if braces are needed?
Your dentist may notice early signs and refer you, which is helpful. A kids orthodontist looks more closely at jaw growth and bite development, so an orthodontic evaluation gives you the most complete picture.
Is age 7 too young for braces?
For full braces, usually yes. An age 7 orthodontic evaluation is a check-up, not a commitment. Most children at this age simply need monitoring, and early treatment is saved for issues such as jaw width, crossbites or severe crowding.
Is the consultation really free?
Yes. The evaluation and 3D scan are complimentary, and there’s no obligation to start treatment. If care is recommended, you’ll get a clear estimate and payment options before deciding anything.
Noticed one of these signs?
If you’ve spotted any of the signs your child needs braces, a complimentary visit gives you clear answers. Text or call (732) 617-1211, or schedule online.