Orthodontic FAQs

At What Age Should My Child Have an Orthodontic Evaluation?

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children receive an orthodontic screening by age 7. By this age, the teeth and jaws have developed enough for an orthodontist to identify potential bite problems early. While treatment is usually not necessary at age 7, early evaluation allows parents and orthodontists to monitor your child’s development and plan the best course of action if needed. Having time on your side enables prevention or early intervention to avoid more serious issues later.

Why Is Early Orthodontic Treatment Important?

Research shows that many orthodontic problems are easier to correct when a child’s skeleton is still growing and flexible. Early treatment can help prepare the mouth for the proper eruption of permanent teeth. When permanent teeth have enough space to come in, they tend to erupt straighter and are less likely to become crooked again after braces are removed.

After most permanent teeth have erupted—usually between ages 12 and 14—comprehensive treatment is started to align the teeth and perfect the bite.

Orthodontic treatment often occurs in two phases:

• Phase 1: Early treatment while some baby teeth are still present.
• Phase 2: Comprehensive treatment after all permanent teeth have erupted.

This two-step approach often leads to excellent results and can help avoid more invasive procedures like tooth extractions or jaw surgery.

What Causes Crooked Teeth?

Several factors can contribute to crooked teeth, including:

• Crowded teeth
• Thumb sucking or tongue thrusting habits
• Premature loss of baby teeth
• Poor breathing due to enlarged adenoids or tonsils
• Genetic factors such as extra, large, or missing teeth; wide spacing; or small jaws

How Do Teeth Move?

Teeth move naturally in response to gentle, sustained pressure over time. Orthodontic appliances—most commonly brackets and archwires—apply this pressure. Your child’s orthodontist will periodically make adjustments or change the wires to guide the teeth into their proper positions. Depending on the stage of treatment, your child may also wear devices like headgear, elastics, bite correctors, or retainers. Appointments are typically scheduled every 6 to 8 weeks to monitor progress and make adjustments.

Will Orthodontic Treatment Hurt?

Some discomfort is normal when teeth begin to move, usually lasting 24 to 72 hours after adjustments. Most patients find the pain lessens as treatment progresses. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) are effective in managing any soreness.