Kids

Early assessment is key to a healthy, confident smile. While many people think of braces as something for teenagers, the foundations of great orthodontic care often begin in childhood.

Kids

When should your child first see an orthodontist?

We recommend that children have their first orthodontic consultation around the age of 7 or 8. At this age, we can begin to identify how the jaw is developing and whether early intervention might help guide teeth into a better position as they grow.

Early assessment doesn't always mean early treatment, but it gives us the chance to monitor development and plan the ideal timing for any future care.

When should your child first see an orthodontist?

Signs your child may need orthodontic treatment

Some signs that your child could benefit from seeing an orthodontist include:

  • Early or late loss of baby teeth
  • Difficulty biting or chewing food
  • Crowded, crooked or gapped teeth
  • Jaws that shift or make sounds
  • Thumb sucking or mouth breathing
  • A visible overbite, underbite or crossbite
  • Speech issues that may be related to jaw or tooth position

If you’ve noticed any of these, or if your child is self-conscious about their smile, it’s worth booking a consultation.

Signs your child may need orthodontic treatment

The best age to start treatment

The ideal age for orthodontic treatment varies depending on the individual. In general:


Early treatment (ages 7–10) may be used to correct bite issues, create space for permanent teeth or guide jaw growth. This is known as interceptive orthodontics.

Teen treatment (ages 11–16) is the most common time for braces or aligners, as most of the adult teeth have come through and growth is still occurring.

By starting at the right time, we can often shorten treatment length and avoid the need for more invasive procedures later on.

The best age to start treatment

Treatment options for kids and teens

We offer a full range of modern orthodontic treatments suitable for children and teenagers, including:

Metal braces – Strong, reliable and ideal for a wide range of cases.

Ceramic braces – Similar to metal braces but with tooth-coloured brackets for a more discreet look.

Lingual braces – Fitted to the back of the teeth, making them virtually invisible.

Invisalign for teens – A clear aligner system designed specifically for teenagers, with added features to monitor wear and track progress.

Treatment options for kids and teens
Protect the health of your child’s smile

Protect the health of your child’s smile

Whether you’ve been referred by your dentist or just want peace of mind, we’re here to help. Book a consultation at our Poole or Broadstone practice today, and let’s take the first step toward a confident, healthy smile for your child.

Book your free consultation