By Dr. Kim Smith | Smile Suite Orthodontics, Evanston IL
As a parent, you want the best for your child — and that includes helping them grow up with a confident, healthy smile. If you’re wondering when to start thinking about orthodontic treatment, what options are available, or how to make it all work with your busy family schedule in Evanston, you’re in the right place.
At Smile Suite Orthodontics, we’ve helped hundreds of Evanston families navigate the world of braces, Invisalign, and early orthodontic care. This guide will walk you through what every local parent should know, so you can feel empowered to make the best decisions for your child’s smile.
🧒 When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this stage, they usually have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, and we can begin to identify subtle issues that may affect future jaw growth or tooth alignment.
You may not need treatment right away, but this early visit gives us the chance to:
- Monitor your child’s development
- Catch potential problems before they become more serious
- Time treatment for the best results with the least stress
We call this interceptive orthodontics, and it’s one of the most valuable tools for parents who want to set their kids up for long-term dental health.
📚 Common Orthodontic Issues We See in Kids
You don’t have to be a dental expert to notice if something looks “off” with your child’s bite or smile. Some common signs that an orthodontic evaluation may be helpful include:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Mouth breathing or difficulty chewing
- Jaws that shift or make noise
- Thumb sucking past age 5
- A visibly uneven bite
Even if everything looks normal, that age 7 checkup is still a smart move — it gives us a clear baseline and peace of mind for you.
🦷 What Treatment Options Are Available?
At Smile Suite, we offer several treatment paths for kids and teens, depending on their age, development, and specific needs.
1. Early Treatment (Phase 1)
This typically happens between ages 7–10 and may involve expanders, partial braces, or space maintainers. The goal is to guide jaw growth and prevent more complex issues down the road.
2. Traditional Braces
Most kids start braces between 11–14, once most of their permanent teeth are in. We offer:
- Metal braces (more comfortable and stylish than ever)
- Clear ceramic braces for a more subtle look
- Colorful elastics to help kids express their personality
3. Invisalign & Clear Aligners for Teens
Yes, Invisalign works great for teens! These clear, removable trays are perfect for responsible kids who prefer a low-profile option and are committed to wearing their aligners as directed.
The Smile Suite Orthodontics team is here to help you choose what works best for your child’s lifestyle, smile, and treatment goals.
