Is it Okay to Have Baby Teeth with Braces?

Navigating dental and orthodontic care for young children can feel overwhelming, particularly when considering “Is it okay to have baby teeth with braces?”. If you’ve been told that your child should wait until all their permanent teeth come in before seeing an orthodontist, this is a common misconception.

While braces are often associated with older kids and teens, there are situations where addressing dental issues earlier is not only feasible but also essential for lasting oral health. 

In fact, delaying an initial orthodontic visit until all permanent teeth have emerged might actually be detrimental.

So, Is it Okay to have Baby Teeth with Braces? 

A common question we hear is whether a child can get braces while they still have baby teeth. 

The simple answer is yes. Although it’s typical for younger patients to wait until most permanent teeth have emerged, braces can still be an effective option with a mix of baby and adult teeth. Visiting an orthodontist early has no downsides, but waiting too long could lead to issues.

So, yes—braces are possible with baby teeth still present. That said, each child’s dental needs are unique, so consulting an orthodontist early and regularly is the best way to ensure the right approach for your child’s smile.

Why Baby Teeth with Braces is Sometimes Recommended 

Orthodontic treatment aims to ensure your child has a proper bite between the upper and lower teeth. While many children can wait for braces until their adult molars emerge, some may benefit from early orthodontic intervention. In certain situations, it’s actually better to address orthodontic issues while baby teeth are still present. 

Some children need guidance for the growth of both their upper and lower jaw to prevent crowding as permanent teeth come in. Early orthodontic care can help prevent future dental problems, setting up a healthy foundation for lifelong oral health.

A child can indeed get braces even if they still have some baby teeth. In certain cases, treatment may start when a mix of baby and adult teeth are present—a process known as “interceptive orthodontics” or “phase 1 orthodontics.” 

Early treatment aims to:

Guide Jaw Development: Creating enough space for permanent teeth to come in properly.

Correct Bite Issues: Treating conditions like overbites, underbites, or crossbites early can prevent challenges that may arise if treatment is postponed until all permanent teeth are in.

Address Harmful Habits: Correcting behaviors like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting, which can impact tooth and jaw alignment.

Enhance Appearance and Confidence: Resolving visible dental concerns early can positively impact a child’s self-esteem.

Reducing Future Treatment Time and Costs: By addressing dental issues early, orthodontists can prevent more severe problems that might require extensive treatment later. This approach can save time, reduce the need for corrective measures, and lower overall costs.

How Orthodontists Determine Eligibility for Braces with Baby Teeth

Individualized Treatment Plans  

Every child’s mouth is unique, and orthodontists carefully examine each child’s dental structure, jaw development, and overall needs to create a customized treatment plan for braces.

Evaluating Jaw & Bite Development  

Orthodontists assess whether a child’s jaw is still developing and how early intervention could positively influence their bite, helping prevent issues that may worsen over time.

X-Rays & Bite Assessments  

Using X-rays and bite assessments, orthodontists can accurately predict tooth movement and jaw growth, guiding them in making well-informed decisions for early orthodontic treatment.

Is There a Best Age to Get Your Child Braces? 

While braces are commonly seen in kids between ages 8 and 14, every child’s dental needs are unique. At Little Diamonds Pediatric Dentistry, we encourage addressing dental issues promptly rather than waiting, as untreated misalignment or health issues may become harder to correct over time. 

Ideally, braces are most effective when the jaw is still growing, as this allows for more successful alignment adjustments.

Why Would Your Child Need Braces? 

• Crowded or Overlapping Teeth: If your child’s teeth are growing too close together or overlapping, braces can help create space for proper alignment.
• Visible Bite Issues: Issues like overbites, underbites, or crossbites can be corrected earlier with braces, even if baby teeth are still present.
• Difficulty with Chewing or Speech: If your child has trouble chewing food properly or experiences speech difficulties due to misaligned teeth, early intervention can help.
• Early Loss of Baby Teeth: Losing baby teeth too soon or too late can cause permanent teeth to shift or erupt incorrectly, making braces necessary to guide proper growth.
• Thumb Sucking or Other Harmful Habits: If your child still engages in habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting, these can affect tooth and jaw development, making early orthodontic treatment beneficial.

What Age is Best for Your Child to Visit an Orthodontist? 

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) suggests that children have their first orthodontic checkup by age 7. If an issue is identified, the orthodontist can recommend the best treatment at the right time for your child.

To answer the main question, there’s no need to wait until all baby teeth are gone before seeing an orthodontist. Even if your child is under 7, it’s wise to schedule a visit if you notice any concerns with their dental development. Many orthodontists provide a free or low-cost initial consultation.

Conclusion 

It is absolutely okay for children to have braces while they still have some baby teeth. Early orthodontic treatment can be highly beneficial for guiding proper jaw development, addressing bite issues, and preventing future dental problems. 

While every child’s dental needs are unique, consulting with an orthodontist early ensures that any concerns are addressed at the right time. By doing so, you can help set the foundation for a healthy, beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime.

Find Out if Your Child Needs Braces 

At Little Diamonds Pediatric Dentistry, we offer comprehensive consultations to help you make the best decisions for your child’s treatment. 

Reach out today or visit our offices by booking an appointment online. 

FAQs 

How long does braces treatment take for kids?  

Braces treatment for kids typically lasts between 18 months to 3 years, depending on the complexity of their dental issues. Regular check-ups help ensure the treatment stays on track.

Do braces for kids hurt? 

Braces may cause some discomfort, especially after adjustments, but it is usually mild and temporary. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any soreness.