Signs that a child needs orthodontic care include crowded or protruding teeth, chewing difficulties, mouth breathing, early or late loss of baby teeth, and jaw clicking or shifting. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first evaluation by age 7 to catch these issues early, when treatment is often simpler and more effective.
What Is Early Orthodontic Evaluation and Why Does It Matter?
Your child’s smile says a lot about their overall health, and sometimes the signs that something needs attention show up earlier than you’d expect. The good news? Many orthodontic issues are easier to spot than most parents realize. Catching them early can make a real difference in your child’s treatment experience.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. That might seem young, especially when your child still has baby teeth. There’s good reason for this timing, though. By age 7, enough permanent teeth have typically emerged for a board-certified doctor to identify developing issues with jaw growth and tooth alignment.
Not every child who visits a doctor will need immediate treatment. In fact, many kids are placed on observation, with periodic check-ups to monitor their growth. When early treatment is recommended, it’s called Phase I or interceptive treatment. This approach can guide jaw development and create space for permanent teeth to come in properly.
Early detection often means simpler treatment down the road. Issues that could become more involved if left untreated are frequently easier to address when your child is still growing. That’s why our doctors at VanLaecken Orthodontics in Sioux Falls, who hold credentials including diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics status, encourage families to schedule that first evaluation sooner rather than later.
Common Signs Your Child May Need Orthodontic Care
The most common signs a child may need orthodontic care fall into six categories: tooth loss timing issues, chewing and biting difficulties, breathing and sleep concerns, jaw irregularities, visible tooth alignment issues, and soft tissue injuries from misaligned teeth. If you notice any of these, an evaluation can help determine whether treatment is needed now or later.
You don’t need to be a doctor to notice potential warning signs. Here are the most common indicators that your child might benefit from an orthodontic evaluation:
Tooth Loss Timing Red Flags
- Early loss of baby teeth (before age 5) can cause neighboring teeth to shift into the empty space, blocking permanent teeth from erupting correctly
- Late loss of baby teeth (after age 12-13) may mean permanent teeth are stuck or blocked
- Watch for baby teeth falling out in an unusual order, which can signal underlying alignment concerns
- Did your child lose a tooth to injury or decay? Ask your dentist whether a space maintainer might help
Chewing or Biting Difficulties
- Trouble biting into foods like apples or corn on the cob
- Your child favors one side of the mouth when chewing
- Food frequently falls out of the mouth while eating
- Complaints that teeth “don’t fit together right,” which often points to a bite issue worth looking into
Breathing and Sleep Concerns
Mouth breathing is one of the most overlooked signs. Many parents don’t realize it can affect jaw and facial development over time.
- Chronic mouth breathing, even when not congested
- Snoring or restless sleep
- Dry, cracked lips from constant mouth breathing
Jaw Concerns Worth Watching
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when your child opens their mouth
- Jaw fatigue or soreness after eating
- Does the jaw shift to one side when opening or closing? That’s worth noting
- Trouble opening the mouth wide
Visible Tooth Alignment Issues
Not every spacing concern needs treatment. Some resolve on their own. But what looks minor on the surface can sometimes connect to a bigger bite issue underneath.
- Crowded teeth that overlap or twist
- Front teeth that stick out noticeably, raising the risk of dental injury
- Lower teeth that extend past upper teeth (underbite)
- Teeth that don’t meet when biting down
Soft Tissue Injuries from Misaligned Teeth
- Frequent biting of cheeks, tongue, or roof of mouth
- Recurring cuts or sores inside the mouth
- Lips that don’t close comfortably over teeth
If you notice any of these signs, it doesn’t necessarily mean your child needs braces right away. But it does mean a free consult could give you valuable information about your child’s oral development.
Benefits of Addressing Orthodontic Issues Early
Early orthodontic treatment can guide jaw growth, protect protruding teeth from injury, build confidence, simplify future treatment, and make oral hygiene easier. When these issues are identified while your child is still growing, treatment can work with their natural development rather than against it.
Early Treatment Takes Advantage of Jaw Growth
During childhood, the jaw bones are still forming. Orthodontic appliances can help direct this growth, creating adequate space for permanent teeth and improving facial symmetry. Once growth wraps up in the late teens, these changes become much harder to achieve without surgery. That timing advantage simply disappears later.
Protecting Teeth That Stick Out
Children with front teeth that protrude are more likely to experience dental trauma during falls or sports. Two sentences tell the story here: early treatment brings those teeth back into a safer position, and that reduced injury risk matters a lot during active childhood years.
Confidence and Self-Image
Kids notice their smiles. Addressing obvious orthodontic issues during elementary school can prevent self-consciousness and teasing during middle school years. A smile your child feels good about supports how they feel about themselves, and that’s something our doctors at VanLaecken Orthodontics in Sioux Falls take seriously.
Easier Oral Hygiene
Crowded or overlapping teeth are harder to brush and floss well. Straightening teeth early makes daily oral care easier, reducing your child’s risk of cavities and gum issues.
Early Treatment vs. Waiting: What’s the Right Approach?
One of the most common questions parents ask is whether their child should start treatment now or wait. There’s no universal answer. It depends entirely on what’s going on with your kid’s teeth, and a board-certified doctor can help you sort through the options.
| Approach | Best For | Typical Age | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phase I (Early Treatment) | Skeletal issues, crossbites, severe crowding, protruding teeth | Ages 7-10 | 12-18 months |
| Observation | Mild concerns, growth monitoring, watching and waiting | Ages 7-11 | Check-ups every 6-12 months |
| Full Treatment | Full alignment when most permanent teeth present | Ages 11-14 | 18-24 months |
When Early Treatment Makes Sense
Some conditions respond much better to early action:
- Crossbites, where upper teeth fit inside lower teeth
- Severe crowding with permanent teeth unable to erupt
- Protruding front teeth at high risk for injury
- Underbites caused by jaw positioning
- Habits like thumb-sucking that have already affected tooth position
When Waiting Is the Better Call
Sometimes patience is the smartest move.
- Mild crowding that may self-correct with growth
- Spacing that full treatment will address later
- Cases where all permanent teeth need to be present for the best results
At VanLaecken Orthodontics in Sioux Falls, our doctors, including a diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, evaluate each child individually to recommend the best timing. No one-size-fits-all approach here.
What Factors Affect the Cost of Children’s Orthodontic Care?
The cost of children’s orthodontic care at VanLaecken Orthodontics in Sioux Falls depends on several factors: the complexity of the issue being treated, the type of appliance used, how long treatment lasts, your insurance coverage, and available payment plans. Understanding these factors ahead of time helps your family plan so there are no surprises.
Treatment Complexity
Simple spacing corrections typically cost less than bite concerns requiring multiple phases. Your doctor can explain how your child’s needs affect the overall plan and fees.
Types of Treatment
Different appliances carry different price points: palatal expanders for jaw widening, traditional braces, clear aligners like Invisalign, and retainers.
Treatment Duration
Phase I treatment (typically 12-18 months) generally costs less than full treatment extending 18-24 months or longer.
Insurance and Payment Plans
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits for children, though lifetime maximums and age limits vary. It’s worth calling your provider before your child’s first visit. VanLaecken Orthodontics also offers low monthly payments and free consults to make treatment accessible for families across the Sioux Falls area.
Is Your Child a Candidate for Orthodontic Treatment?
Wondering if your child should be evaluated? Here are indicators that a free consult would be a good idea:
- Visible crowding or spacing that concerns you or your child
- Thumb-sucking or pacifier use that continued past age 5
- Facial asymmetry or a profile that seems unbalanced
- Speech concerns that may be related to tooth positioning
- A family history of orthodontic issues
- Your child is 7 or older and hasn’t had an orthodontic screening
During a free consult at VanLaecken Orthodontics, the doctor will examine your child’s teeth, jaws, and bite, take X-rays to see developing teeth and jaw structure, discuss any concerns you’ve noticed, and explain whether treatment is recommended now, later, or not at all. There’s no obligation to get started, and many families leave with peace of mind that their child’s development is on track.
Frequently Asked Questions About Children’s Orthodontic Care
At what age should my child first see a doctor for an orthodontic evaluation?
Your child should have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7, as recommended by the American Association of Orthodontists. At this age, enough permanent teeth are present for a doctor to identify potential concerns, yet your child is young enough to benefit from early action if needed. Families throughout the Sioux Falls area can schedule a free consult at VanLaecken Orthodontics to get that first look.
Can my child get Invisalign instead of braces?
Yes, many children are excellent candidates for Invisalign or other clear aligner systems. The decision depends on your child’s orthodontic needs, their maturity level for wearing aligners consistently, and the complexity of their case. Dr. Ryan K. VanLaecken, a diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, can discuss whether clear aligners are right for your child during a free consult.
How long does early orthodontic treatment take?
Phase I treatment typically lasts 12-18 months, depending on the issues being addressed, such as crossbites, crowding, or jaw alignment. After Phase I wraps up, your child will usually wear a retainer and be monitored as remaining permanent teeth come in. The monitoring period between Phase I and Phase II varies by child, but your doctor will keep you updated at each check-up so you know exactly where things stand.
Will my child need braces again after Phase I treatment?
It depends. Many children who have Phase I treatment do benefit from Phase II once all permanent teeth have erupted. Early treatment often makes this second phase shorter and simpler, though. Some children complete their orthodontic care with Phase I alone, so realistic expectations will be part of your initial conversation with the doctor.
Does my child need a referral to see a doctor?
No referral is needed. You can contact VanLaecken Orthodontics directly to book a free consult for your child at any of our Sioux Falls area locations. Many families schedule after their dentist notices a potential concern, but you’re welcome to seek an evaluation anytime you have questions about your child’s bite or tooth alignment.
What if my child is nervous about visiting the practice?
Totally normal, especially for younger kids. Creating a welcoming environment is a priority at our practice. We see you as real people, not just as patients! The team explains everything in kid-friendly terms and moves at your child’s pace, so the experience feels comfortable rather than intimidating.
If you’ve noticed any signs that your child might benefit from orthodontic care, or if your child is approaching age 7 and hasn’t had an evaluation, scheduling a free consult is a great next step. Our doctors can give you clear answers about your child’s development and help you understand what, if anything, would benefit their smile. Request a free consult to get started.