Early dental care can make a big difference in a child’s smile. There are signs to look out for when that dental care means getting braces. Catching these signs early can help prevent bigger problems later. Braces can fix crowded or crooked teeth, making it easier to clean them and reducing the risk of cavities. They can also correct how the teeth line up, which can improve chewing and speaking.

If you ignore signs that your child needs braces, it can lead to more serious issues. Crooked teeth can be harder to brush and floss, leading to more cavities and gum problems. In this article, we will go over several signs to look out for so you know it’s time for your child to get braces. 

Teen girl with braces smiling.

1 – Overlapping teeth

Crowded or overlapping teeth can be one of the earliest signs that your child may need braces. You might notice teeth that twist, overlap, or appear to fight for space in the mouth. This crowding can make it difficult for a child to brush and floss properly, leading to trapped food particles and a higher risk of cavities. When teeth are too close together, plaque and bacteria can easily build up in hard-to-reach areas, increasing the chances of gum disease.

If you’re unsure whether your child’s teeth are too crowded, consult with Breckenridge Family Dental | Trusted Dentist in Summit County, CO. An experienced orthodontist can assess the alignment and recommend the best course of action. Taking action early can prevent more serious dental issues and set the stage for a healthier, straighter smile.

2 – Gaps between teeth

Gaps between teeth are another common sign that your child may need braces. These spaces can appear between any teeth but are most noticeable between the front teeth. Some gaps may develop naturally as the jaw grows, while others might be caused by missing teeth, a difference in tooth size, or habits like thumb sucking. In some cases, the tongue pressing against the teeth while swallowing or speaking can also push teeth apart.

Large gaps can make it harder to bite and chew properly, and food particles may get stuck in these spaces, leading to plaque buildup and tooth decay. If the gaps are causing speech issues or making your child self-conscious about their smile, it’s a good idea to seek professional advice. 

3 – Speech impediments

Speech impediments can sometimes be a sign that your child may need braces. Misaligned teeth can impact the way the tongue and lips move when forming certain sounds, leading to speech difficulties. Issues like overbites, underbites, and gaps between teeth can cause lisping, slurred speech, or difficulty pronouncing specific letters or sounds. For instance, a gap in the front teeth may cause a whistling sound when pronouncing “s” or “z” sounds. 

If you notice persistent speech difficulties along with visible dental misalignment, it may be time to consult both an orthodontist and a speech therapist. The orthodontist can assess how the teeth and jaw alignment are contributing to the speech issue, while the speech therapist can work on correcting specific speech patterns.