As a parent, you want to make the best decisions for your child’s health—including their dental and orthodontic care. If you’re wondering when your child should see an orthodontist or whether they might need braces, you’re not alone. Many Pittsburgh parents ask the same question: When is the right time to start?
At Bridge City Braces, we specialize in early orthodontic evaluations and treatment for children. Here’s what you should know about braces for kids in Pittsburgh, PA, and how we can help guide your child toward a confident, healthy smile.
When Should My Child First See an Orthodontist?
According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), children should have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. By this age, your child has a mix of baby and permanent teeth, which allows an orthodontist to:
- Spot early signs of crowding or spacing
- Monitor jaw development
- Detect bite issues (overbite, underbite, crossbite)
- Plan for future treatment, if needed
It’s important to note that an early evaluation doesn’t always mean early treatment. In many cases, we simply monitor growth and development over time. But when early treatment is necessary, it can help prevent more serious problems later.
Signs Your Child Might Need Braces
Not sure if your child is showing signs of orthodontic concerns? Here are some indicators that it might be time to schedule an evaluation:
- Crowded, overlapping, or crooked teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing or snoring
- Early loss of baby teeth
- Thumb-sucking beyond age 4
- Teeth that don’t come together properly
- Jaw clicking or shifting
Even if your child’s smile looks “fine,” there may be issues beneath the surface that only an orthodontist can detect through X-rays or a bite analysis.
Types of Braces for Kids at Bridge City Braces
At Bridge City Braces, we offer two main types of braces for kids:
Traditional Metal Braces
These are the most common option for children. They’re durable, effective, and now more comfortable than ever. Plus, kids can customize their look with fun elastic colors.
Clear Ceramic Braces
For children who are a bit older or want a more discreet option, ceramic braces blend in with the natural tooth color for a more subtle appearance.
We’ll help you decide which type is best based on your child’s orthodontic needs, age, and preferences.
What Parents Should Know About Treatment
When it comes to braces, parents often have a lot of questions—and we’re here to answer them all. Here are a few important things to keep in mind:
- Treatment Time: Most kids wear braces for 18 to 24 months, but this varies depending on the complexity of the case.
- Appointments: Expect check-ups every 6 to 8 weeks to adjust wires and track progress. We offer flexible scheduling to accommodate school and family life.
- Oral Hygiene: Brushing and flossing with braces can be tricky at first. We’ll teach your child how to keep their teeth clean and cavity-free during treatment.
- Diet Adjustments: Sticky, hard, or crunchy foods should be avoided to prevent damage to brackets and wires. But don’t worry—there are still plenty of braces-friendly snacks to enjoy.
Why Pittsburgh Families Choose Bridge City Braces
We know that starting orthodontic care is a big milestone—for both kids and parents. At Bridge City Braces, we provide:
- Free orthodontic consultations for children and teens
- A welcoming, kid-friendly environment
- Gentle, experienced orthodontists who explain everything clearly
- A fun and encouraging approach to make treatment exciting, not scary
Our goal is to make sure every child feels supported, every parent feels informed, and every smile reaches its full potential.
Schedule Your Child’s Free Orthodontic Evaluation Today
Wondering if your child might need braces? There’s no need to guess. Our team at Bridge City Braces offers expert evaluations and honest guidance—without pressure.
Schedule your child’s free orthodontic consultation today and take the first step toward a healthier, happier smile with Pittsburgh’s trusted orthodontic team.