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Signs Your Child Needs Braces

Home » Blog » Signs Your Child Needs Braces

Did you know that braces have been worn throughout history? Archeologists have found many mummified ancient people who had metal bands around their teeth!

Are you wondering the answer to the question, does my child need braces? In this article, explore the top tell-tale signs your child needs them. Read on to discover why braces are so beneficial, and why so many are choosing them for their children to have a healthier and happier smile.

Does Your Child Suck Their Thumb?

To prevent further complications, you’ll want to talk to your dentist about when your child should stop sucking their thumb. Thumb sucking can lead to problems down the road.

Ensure that they’re going to see their dentist for regular check-ups as well. While it can be ok before their permanent teeth come in, past this can lead to several complications.

Signs Your Child Needs Braces

The first thing you’ll want to look at is your child’s bite. When they bite, do their top teeth fit naturally over top their bottom teeth?

Do you notice any openings between their teeth? If so, this is what’s known as an open bite.

Are there teeth on the bottom that go on the outside of their top teeth? This is what’s known as a crossbite.

You’ll also want to make sure that the top teeth in the front only cover about a third of the lower teeth. If they go further down, this is what’s known as an overbite. If it’s the opposite problem where the lower jaw is bigger, that’s what’s known as an underbite.

Does Your Child Need Braces?

Signs your child needs braces aren’t just due to the bite, but also the overall look of the teeth as well. Jaw and tooth problems can be from thumb sucking, losing baby teeth fast, accidents, or genetics.

Take a look at spacing too. Do your child’s teeth seem crowded, or maybe the spacing seems excessive? Your dentist might be the first to notice that your child should go and see an orthodontist. An orthodontist specializes in jaw and teeth problems.

Watch for mouth breathing as well. If your child breaths through their mouth, this can be a sign that their teeth aren’t meeting properly.

What Happens During the First Visit?

During the first visit, your orthodontist will take a look at your child’s bite and teeth. They might ask you different questions such as swallowing and chewing. Also, if you’ve ever noticed any popping or clicking in their jaw.

It’s standard procedure to take x-rays to take a look at any permanent teeth that have yet to come in or any concerns. Afterward, they’ll speak with you about their recommendations on whether your child needs braces or not.

Braces vs Invisalign

Your orthodontist will discuss with you whether your child is a candidate for both Invisalign and braces. Braces are the traditional route for fixing crooked teeth. It’s where wires and brackets are placed to put pressure onto the teeth.

Invisalign is gaining popularity throughout the years since it offers a discreet way to straighten teeth. You don’t have to worry about wires poking or food getting stuck. Traditional braces are more limiting as far as what foods you can and can’t eat.

Invisalign you take out before each meal and brush your teeth before you pop them back in. Once the braces come off, then your child will receive a retainer they wear at night. The retainer will make sure that their teeth stay where they’re supposed to.

The Benefits of Braces

You might think that braces are more for aesthetics, but they aren’t. Not only do they help straighten your child’s teeth, but they can help prevent gum disease and tooth decay.

When teeth are crooked and not straight, it makes them harder to clean. When teeth aren’t cleaned properly, this can lead to tooth decay and cavities over time. Braces will spread out the crooked teeth to make them easier to clean.

Improved Speech

Crooked teeth and jaws can lead to speech problems. When your child’s jaw and teeth are aligned where they need to be, then speech can improve.

Self-Esteem

Braces also help with self-esteem. Many will cover their mouths for a smile because they’re embarrassed by their teeth. When they have straight teeth, they’ll feel more confident when smiling for pictures.

Helps Prevent Injuries

If your child has protruding teeth, this can make them more prone to accidents. This can include falling, car crashes, or sports.

How Old Should My Child Get Braces?

Every child will get all of their permanent teeth at a different age and will have different needs. It’s more about your child’s development than their age on the calendar. When they have 4 of their lower and upper front teeth, that’s a good time to have them see an orthodontist.

A good range is between 7-9 years old. Depending on your child’s needs, they might need a removable appliance instead of braces. If your child has a jaw problem where one jaw is wider than the other, they might need expanders as well.

Answering the Question To: Does My Child Need Braces?

Now that you’ve explored the answer to, does my child need braces, you should be well on your way to deciding if your child needs treatment. Are you ready to book your first appointment for your child? Ready for them to have that healthy and happy smile you’ve dreamed of for them?

Contact us today for a consult, and we’ll answer all questions and concerns you have. We’ll come up with an action plan that’s specific to your child’s needs.

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Patient Testimonials

Hear what Our Patients Are Saying About
Their Experience With Us

Ladan M.
We had a great experience. Professional and caring personnel and super amazing Dr. Straight made it an easy choice to work with.
Kelly P.
Just started my fourth kid in treatment today. No where else we would go…from the front desk gals, fresh coffee for this tired momma, the hygienist, the dentists…it’s always been a great experience. Wonderful staff making amazing smiles!!!
Artoya
Staff and the doctor were very friendly and they explained everything in detail.
David B.
Took my twin girls in for braces today and we had an amazing experience. The entire staff went out of their way to answer all of our questions and they were so sweet with the girls. The girls left with new braces and big smiles and I left with confidence in my desicion. I highly recommend them!
Melissa M.
We love Craig & Streight! They have always been so friendly and helpful!
Chuck K.
I've had nothing but the best-ever experience at CSO; from check-in to the clinics, the staff is all one one page, professional and SO very friendly. They're living the corporate ethos, and it shows! If you need orthodontics, it's CSO for me from now on!
Tiffany R.
The greatest staff and doctors! They made a challenging situation so much easier. Huge hearts, professional and went above and beyond. I’m so appreciative.
Response from the owner:Hi Tiffany. Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear that our team was able to make a challenging situation more manageable for you. Our staff is dedicated to providing compassionate and professional care, and it's heartwarming to know their efforts made a positive impact. We truly appreciate your kind words!
Vielje G.
Love the service, staffs are very friendly and approachable and always on point with their work.
Response from the owner:Hey Vielje. Thank you for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that you had such a positive experience with our team. Providing friendly and attentive service is what we strive for, and your feedback truly motivates us to keep up the great work!
Kari C.
This is our second child receiving braces at Craig & Streight and we could not be happier. The staff is kind, efficient, and happy to answer all of our questions.
Response from the owner:Hi Kari. Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience! We're thrilled to hear that you and your family are so pleased with the care your children are receiving. Our team is dedicated to providing a supportive and informative environment, and it’s great to know that their efforts are making a positive impact. We appreciate your trust in us!
Michael T.
Everyone at the Mustang location is amazing... They are always polite and know exactly what they are supposed to do... Very professional... I have and will continue to refer people to use Craig and Streight Orthodontics...
Response from the owner:Hi Michael. Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear that our Mustang team has made such a positive impression on you. Your referrals mean a lot to us, and we’re dedicated to maintaining the high standards of professionalism and care that you’ve experienced. We appreciate your support!
Lacey C.
Friendly, explained everything well, felt very comfortable there. Had great games for the kids while waiting.
Response from the owner:Hi Lacey. Thank you for sharing your experience! We're delighted to hear that you felt comfortable and that our team took the time to explain everything. It's great to know the kids enjoyed the games while waiting. We appreciate your feedback and look forward to seeing you again!
Sherree M.
We always have a good experience at Craig & Streight. The staff is always friendly and helpful. They make my son at ease and he loves to earn "punches" so he can get a prize after so many visits.
Response from the owner:Hi Sherree. Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience! We're delighted to hear that our team has made your visits enjoyable and that your son is having fun earning his prizes. We truly appreciate your feedback and look forward to continuing to provide a positive environment for you and your family!
Q E
Goodbye, braces! I have finally completed my treatment! I want to thank all the staff members, especially Francis, who was exceptionally kind and went above and beyond to help me. I have hearing loss in one ear, and she was able to understand me perfectly. She is truly an amazing person.
Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience! We're thrilled to hear about your successful treatment and the positive impact our team, especially Francis, had on your journey. Your feedback inspires us to continue providing exceptional care. Wishing you all the best as you embrace your new smile!
Christina C.
Friendly staff. They answered all of our questions and put my daughter at ease to start her braces journey.
Response from the owner:Hi Christina. Thank you! We are thrilled that you had such a positive experience with our orthodontic practice!
JoAnn T.
Wow!! This place is so friendly! Makayla was so informative and friendly.
Response from the owner:Hi Joann. Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear that you had such a positive experience and that Makayla made a great impression. Our team is dedicated to providing a welcoming environment, and it’s fantastic to know we’re hitting the mark. We look forward to seeing you again soon!

Our locations

Norman Office

706 24th Ave NW
Norman, OK 73069

Mustang Office

1476 N Mustang Rd
Mustang, OK 73064

South Oklahoma City

12100 S Western Ave
Oklahoma City, OK 73170

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