Can Children Wear Braces? Understanding When They Are Indicated

The idea that orthodontic braces are only for teenagers is still common, but it does not always reflect clinical reality. In many situations, children can wear braces, particularly when there are jaw growth alterations, bite problems, or oral habits that interfere with proper dental development.

Orthodontic monitoring during childhood allows these signs to be identified early and, when indicated, enables phased and growth-adapted intervention, with both functional and preventive benefits

Can children wear orthodontic braces?

Yes, children can wear braces, provided there is a clinical indication. The main goal of orthodontic treatment in childhood is not to permanently align all teeth, but rather to guide bone and dental growth, correcting imbalances that could worsen over time.

At this stage, treatment is usually classified as preventive or interceptive orthodontics, which takes advantage of the child’s natural growth potential while the jaws are still developing.

In which situations is orthodontic treatment recommended for children?

Orthodontic treatment in children is not only related to dental aesthetics. In many cases, early intervention aims to guide jaw growth, correct functional imbalances, and create more favourable conditions for the eruption of permanent teeth.

The decision to start treatment is always based on an individual clinical assessment, taking into account the child’s age, stage of dental and skeletal development, and the presence of functional or occlusal alterations.

Anterior or posterior crossbite

A crossbite occurs when the upper teeth close inside the lower teeth, rather than slightly overlapping them. It may affect the front teeth (anterior crossbite) or one or both sides of the mouth (posterior crossbite).

If left untreated during growth, this condition may lead to asymmetric jaw development and functional imbalances during chewing.

Open bite or deep overbite

In an open bite, the front teeth do not come into contact when the child closes their mouth, which can interfere with chewing, speech, and smile aesthetics.

A deep overbite occurs when the upper teeth excessively cover the lower teeth, potentially leading to tooth wear and functional problems over time.

In both cases, early intervention can help guide growth and improve oral function.

Lack of space for permanent teeth eruption

When the jaws are too small, permanent teeth may erupt out of position, remain impacted, or become crowded.

Early orthodontic assessment allows these situations to be identified and, in some cases, space can be created in a controlled manner, reducing the likelihood of extractions or more complex treatments later on

Discrepancies in upper or lower jaw growth

Differences in growth rate between the upper jaw and the mandible can affect the relationship between the teeth and the facial profile.

Orthodontic monitoring during childhood makes it possible to observe this growth and, when indicated, intervene to promote more balanced skeletal development.

Persistent oral habits

Habits such as thumb sucking, prolonged pacifier use, or tongue thrusting can exert continuous forces on the teeth and facial bones.

When these habits persist beyond the recommended age, they increase the risk of malocclusions and dental position changes and should be assessed within an orthodontic context

Mouth breathing and associated functional changes

Predominant mouth breathing can influence facial growth, tongue posture, and tooth position.

In children, this breathing pattern is often associated with occlusal and functional changes, justifying an integrated evaluation and, when necessary, orthodontic follow-up.

Significant dental misalignment at an early stage

Marked misalignment during the mixed dentition phase may indicate lack of space, altered eruption patterns, or jaw growth imbalances.

In such cases, early monitoring allows treatment to be planned in a phased and developmentally appropriate way.

What is the ideal age for an orthodontic assessment?

In general, the first orthodontic evaluation is recommended around the age of 6–7 years, when the first permanent teeth begin to erupt.

At this stage, the orthodontist can:

• Assess skeletal growth patterns;

• Identify malocclusions early;

• Anticipate potential eruption problems;

• Determine whether monitoring or intervention is needed.

Not all children will require braces at this age, but early assessment allows for safer and more informed planning.

What types of braces can be used in children?

When indicated, orthodontic treatment in children typically involves simple appliances adapted to the child’s age.

Removable appliances:

These are commonly used in preventive and interceptive orthodontics. They can be inserted and removed by the child (under supervision) and are used to:

• Correct crossbites;

• Create space for permanent teeth;

• Control oral habits

Partial fixed or functional appliances:

In specific situations, simple fixed appliances or functional appliances may be used to influence jaw growth in a gradual and controlled manner.

The choice of appliance depends on the child’s age, the identified problem, and the stage of dental and skeletal development.

Why is early orthodontic monitoring important?

Orthodontic follow-up during childhood allows for a preventive approach, monitoring growth and intervening only when necessary.

The main objectives of this monitoring include:

• Guiding jaw growth;

• Promoting functional occlusion;

• Reducing the need for future extractions;

• Preventing joint and muscular problems;

• Facilitating orthodontic treatment at later stages.

This approach does not replace orthodontic treatment during adolescence when needed, but it can make it simpler and more predictable.

When should you seek an orthodontist for your child?

If you notice changes in the way your child bites, difficulties chewing, persistent oral habits, or delayed tooth eruption, it is advisable to seek a specialised evaluation.

Even in the absence of obvious signs, an assessment around the age of 6–7 years can help clarify doubts and determine whether follow-up is necessary.

At the clinic of Dr. Cláudio Alferes, paediatric orthodontic care is based on an individualised assessment, respecting each child’s growth pattern and promoting a preventive and functional approach.