Many parents wonder if or when their child might need braces. Straight teeth aren’t just about a great smile—they also help with proper chewing, speaking, and overall oral health. At Woodbridge Dental Centre, we often hear this question during regular checkups. Understanding the early signs of dental misalignment and the basics of child orthodontics can help you make smart, timely decisions for your child’s smile.
Top Signs Your Child May Need Braces
Every child is different, but there are some common kids braces signs to look for:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Large gaps between teeth
- Overbite (top teeth cover the bottom teeth too much)
- Underbite (bottom teeth stick out more than the top teeth)
- Crossbite (teeth don’t align properly when the mouth is closed)
- Open bite (space between top and bottom teeth when the mouth is closed)
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing or snoring
- Thumb-sucking beyond age 5
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
“Parents are often surprised that braces can sometimes start as early as age 7,” says Dr. Michael Rouhi, dentist at Woodbridge Dental Centre. “That doesn’t mean braces go on right away, but early orthodontic consultation gives us a chance to guide jaw and tooth development early on.”
When Should Kids See an Orthodontist?
The Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends that children get a child orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, most kids have a mix of baby and adult teeth, making it easier to catch alignment problems.
Early detection gives the dentist or kids orthodontist a chance to:
- Monitor jaw growth
- Plan ahead for braces if needed
- Prevent more serious issues later
- Guide incoming adult teeth into better positions
“Even if your child doesn’t need braces yet, we can track their growth and offer tips to encourage good dental alignment,” says Dr. Sandra Farber, dentist at Woodbridge Dental Centre.
What to Expect During a Braces Evaluation
A kids orthodontist appointment usually involves:
- A physical exam of your child’s teeth and jaw
- X-rays to see how the adult teeth are growing
- Photos and possibly a 3D scan of their mouth
- A review of your child’s habits like thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting
- A discussion about whether braces are needed now or in the future
If treatment is needed, options are explained clearly, along with a timeline and costs.
Types of Braces for Kids
If your child does need braces, there are several options available:
- Traditional metal braces: Durable and effective for complex cases
- Clear braces: Less visible but still fixed
- Removable aligners: Best for older children or teens who are responsible enough to wear them properly
- Early braces: Short-term appliances for kids under age 10 that help prevent bigger problems later
At Woodbridge Dental Centre, we’ll walk you through every option and help you find affordable kids braces in Ontario that fit your family’s budget.
Cost of Pediatric Braces in Ontario
The pediatric braces cost in Ontario varies depending on your child’s needs, treatment length, and the type of braces chosen. On average, treatment ranges from $3,000 to $7,000. Some dental insurance plans may cover part of the cost, especially with early diagnosis.
Our team can help you check your coverage and offer flexible payment plans if needed.
Why Early Braces Can Help
Getting braces for kids early can:
- Shorten the length of future treatment
- Improve jaw and face development
- Make later orthodontics simpler or even unnecessary
- Boost your child’s confidence and self-esteem
Parents searching for braces treatment for children often discover that early care can save money and prevent more complicated procedures later.
How to Get Started
If you’ve noticed any signs your child needs braces, don’t wait. Book an early orthodontic consultation to find out what’s best for your child’s smile.
At Woodbridge Dental Centre, we proudly serve families in Woodbridge, Maple, and Vaughan. We specialize in gentle, child-friendly care and offer a range of options to make treatment easy and stress-free.
To find a pediatric orthodontist you can trust, give our office a call today and schedule your child’s first evaluation. We’re here to help you plan for a healthy, happy smile that lasts a lifetime.
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