When Should Kids Get Braces? Invisalign® First Might Be a Great Option for your Child

There’s truly nothing more heartwarming than a child’s smile. But as little ones grow, their teeth and jaws develop quickly – and sometimes that growth isn’t perfectly aligned. Crowding, spacing issues, or crooked teeth can happen for many reasons, including genetics, a small jaw, early or late tooth loss, or habits like thumb sucking that linger a bit too long.

If you’ve noticed that your child’s smile looks uneven or their bite seems off, you’re not alone – many parents wonder when the right time is to consider braces or early orthodontic treatment. In this guide, I’ll walk you through what to look for, when kids should be evaluated, and the modern teeth-straightening options that can support your child’s healthiest, happiest smile.

Signs Your Child May Need Braces

While a full orthodontic evaluation is always the most accurate way to know, there are signs parents can watch for at home. I generally recommend children have their first orthodontic check-up around age 7, when adult molars and front teeth usually begin to appear.

Look for:

• Crowded or overlapping teeth
• Teeth that look “out of line” or rotated 
• Difficulty chewing or biting into food
• Speech concerns related to tooth and/or tongue position
• Top and bottom teeth that don’t meet correctly -open bite 
• Mouth breathing, thumb sucking, or jaw habits like shifting 
• Difficulty sleeping 
• Severe grinding 

If you notice any of these, scheduling a consultation is a great next step. Early assessments allow us to guide your child’s developing smile gently before issues become more complex later on.

The Big Benefits Behind a Little Straight Smile

A straighter smile is more than a cosmetic improvement — it can impact your child’s overall general health. Misaligned teeth can lead to:

• More plaque buildup, which can increase the risk of cavities and gum irritation
• Speech difficulties, especially if front teeth or tongue position affect sound formation
• Chewing issues, which sometimes contribute to digestive or picky eating problems as well as non-ideal jaw development                          
• Lower confidence, especially as kids grow older and become more aware of their appearance
• Higher risk of trauma, when teeth are significantly flared or protruded 

Helping kids achieve a healthy mouth early can prevent future complications — and often leads to shorter, simpler treatment as they grow.

Traditional Braces for Kids

Traditional metal braces have been trusted for many years, and they’re still a very effective way to guide developing teeth into a healthier position. Using small brackets and wires, braces apply gentle continuous pressure over time to move each tooth where it needs to be. Children typically return to the orthodontist for regular adjustments, which may involve tightening or changing the wires or elastics to keep treatment progressing.

While braces can be a great solution, they do have limitations – especially when it comes to comfort and daily brushing and flossing. Some children find it challenging to keep their teeth clean around the brackets and wires, which is why exploring all options, including clear aligners, can be helpful.

Invisalign® First

Parents often ask if Invisalign works for kids – and the answer is yes. Invisalign First was designed specifically for growing children, typically between ages 6 and 10, even before all their adult teeth have erupted.

Instead of metal wires and brackets, treatment uses a series of clear, removable aligners that gently guide teeth into their ideal positions.

Why parents (and kids!) love Invisalign First:

• Easier brushing and flossing

Because aligners are removable, your child can brush and floss normally — no brackets trapping food.

• No food restrictions

Popcorn, apples, nuts, sticky treats — all the “brace-breaking” snacks are allowed. Kids simply remove their aligners during meals.

• More comfort

Aligners are made of smooth SmartTrack® material, so there’s no poking wires or rubbing metal.

• Gentle, predictable movement

Invisalign’s digital planning system maps out future tooth positions, including teeth that haven’t erupted yet. Every new aligner adapts to your child’s developing mouth.

• Discreet appearance

Aligners are nearly invisible, giving kids confidence during school photos, sports, and social activities.

Best Age for Invisalign First for Children

• Braces: typically between ages 7–14, depending on tooth development
• Invisalign First: can begin as early as 6–10 years old

Every child is unique, so I always tailor recommendations based on their growth, personality, and dental needs.

Book an Orthodontic Evaluation for Your Child

Early guidance can make orthodontic care easier, more comfortable, and more effective.

Your child’s healthy, confident smile starts with early awareness — and I’m here to support you on that journey.

– Dr. Helen Choi