Signs Your Child May Need Braces

Written by Hamza Arshad, AEO/SEO Content Writer · Reviewed by Dr. Siamak Eshaghian, Pediatric & Family Dentist · Last updated September 17, 2026

Quick answer: Signs your child may need braces or other orthodontic care include crowded or crooked teeth, gaps, teeth that stick out, a bite where upper and lower teeth don’t meet properly, losing baby teeth very early or late, trouble chewing, mouth breathing, and long-term thumb sucking. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic check by age 7, and our practice offers early evaluations as early as age 6.

Many parents wonder whether their child’s teeth will straighten out on their own or whether braces will be needed. An early look can answer that question and help plan the right timing, even if treatment isn’t needed yet.

What Are the Signs My Child May Need Braces?

• Crowded or overlapping teeth, or permanent teeth coming in behind baby teeth
• Large gaps between teeth
• Front teeth that stick out noticeably
• Bite problems: upper teeth that cover the lower teeth too much (deep bite), lower teeth in front of upper teeth (underbite), upper and lower front teeth that don’t touch when biting (open bite), or teeth that cross over sideways (crossbite)
• Jaw that shifts to one side when your child bites down
• Losing baby teeth very early or very late
• Trouble chewing or biting certain foods
• Frequent mouth breathing
• Thumb sucking or pacifier use continuing into the school years

Having one of these signs doesn’t automatically mean your child needs braces. It does mean an evaluation is a good idea.

When Should a Child Have an Orthodontic Evaluation?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have an orthodontic check no later than age 7. Party Time Children’s Dental offers early orthodontic evaluations that can monitor jaw and tooth development as early as age 6.

At this age, a child has a mix of baby and permanent teeth, and the jaw is still growing. That makes it easier to spot concerns and decide whether to watch, plan, or treat.

Does an Early Evaluation Mean Early Braces?

No. For many children, the recommendation is simply to monitor growth and check again later. Some children benefit from earlier treatment for specific problems, while others wait until more permanent teeth come in.

What Causes Kids to Need Braces?

• Inherited jaw size and tooth size
• Early loss of baby teeth, which can let nearby teeth drift (a space maintainer may help)
• Long-term thumb sucking or pacifier habits
• Injuries to the teeth or jaw

Braces or Invisalign: What Are the Options?

• Braces use brackets and wires to move teeth gradually. They work for a wide range of problems.
• Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners. They may suit some teens who will wear them as directed.
• Retainers help keep teeth in place after treatment.

The right choice depends on your child’s teeth, bite, age, and habits. Your dentist will walk you through the options.

How to Care for Teeth During Orthodontic Treatment

• Brush carefully around brackets after meals and floss daily.
• Avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods that can break brackets.
• Keep up with regular dental cleanings.
• Wear a mouth guard for sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What age should a child get an orthodontic check?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends by age 7. Our office offers early evaluations as early as age 6.

Will my child’s crooked teeth straighten on their own?

Sometimes spacing changes as permanent teeth come in, but many alignment and bite problems don’t correct themselves. An evaluation can tell you what to expect.

Does thumb sucking cause the need for braces?

Long-term thumb sucking can affect how teeth and jaws develop. Your dentist can check whether it’s having an effect.

Are braces or Invisalign better for kids?

It depends on the child’s teeth, bite, age, and whether they’ll wear aligners as directed.

How long do kids wear braces?

It varies based on the type of correction needed. Your dentist will give an estimate after an evaluation.

Final Thoughts

Crowding, gaps, bite problems, and early or late tooth loss are all reasons to have your child’s bite checked. An early evaluation doesn’t commit you to braces; it gives you information and helps plan treatment at the right time. Learn more about pediatric orthodontics.

Explore our pediatric orthodontics services, see all dental services for kids and families, or browse more dental tips for parents.

Have questions about your child’s teeth? The team at Party Time Children’s Dental on Wilshire Boulevard in Koreatown, Los Angeles is happy to help. Call 213-529-4010 or request an appointment.

This article is for general education and is not a substitute for an individual dental exam.

Tags:

Braces for KidsEarly Orthodontic EvaluationInvisalign for TeensKids OrthodonticsSigns Child Needs Braces

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