When to Get Braces for Kids: A Parent’s Guide to Healthy Smiles

As parents, we all want our children to have confident, healthy smiles. Orthodontic care plays a big role in that journey—but many parents aren’t sure when to get braces for kids, or how to recognize early signs that something may be wrong. At Bliss Pediatric Dentistry, we’re here to guide you through the process, starting with what to look for and when to act.

When Should Kids First See an Orthodontist?

The best time for your child’s first orthodontic visit is around age 7, according to the American Association of Orthodontists. By this age, children have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, allowing orthodontists to spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth—long before all adult teeth are in place.

Early evaluation doesn’t mean your child will need braces immediately, but it helps determine when to get braces for kids in the future, and whether early intervention could reduce the complexity or duration of treatment.

Common Signs Your Child May Need Braces

Every smile is unique, but here are some signs that may indicate the need for braces:

• Crooked or crowded teeth

• Overbite or underbite

• Difficulty chewing or biting

• Early or late loss of baby teeth

• Thumb sucking beyond age 4

• Mouth breathing or jaw shifting

Another surprising indicator that something may be wrong? Bleeding gums in children.

What Do Bleeding Gums Have to Do With Braces?

Bleeding gums in children can be caused by poor brushing habits, which may be made worse by crowded or misaligned teeth. When teeth are hard to clean due to spacing issues, plaque and bacteria build up—leading to gum inflammation and bleeding.

In some cases, orthodontic treatment helps by straightening the teeth, making them easier to clean and reducing the risk of gum problems. So if you notice your child has bleeding gums and crowded teeth, it’s worth consulting both a pediatric dentist and an orthodontist.

The Best Age for Braces

Most kids who need braces will get them between ages 9 and 14, once most of their permanent teeth are in. However, some children may benefit from two-phase orthodontic treatment, which starts earlier with simpler appliances and finishes with full braces later on.

Your orthodontist at Blissgrins will create a personalized plan based on your child’s growth, dental development, and specific needs.

Final Thoughts

Knowing when to get braces for kids isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about setting them up for lifelong oral health. And if you’re noticing bleeding gums in children, it could be more than just a brushing issue. Don’t wait—early evaluation gives you peace of mind and more options for your child’s care.

At Blissgrins, we believe in proactive, gentle orthodontics that keep your child’s health and happiness at the center. Schedule a consultation with us today and take the first step toward a brighter, healthier smile.