Braces for Children
Early Treatment for a Healthy, Confident Smile
For most children, a conservative approach to orthodontic care is best—but in some cases, early braces are necessary to protect growing smiles. One of the most common reasons braces are recommended at a young age is to correct a condition called an anterior crossbite.
An anterior crossbite occurs when one or more of the upper front teeth grow in behind the lower front teeth. If left uncorrected, this can lead to:
- Damage to the gums and jawbone
- Excessive wear on the affected teeth
- Increased risk of trauma to the front teeth
By correcting an anterior crossbite early, we can help protect the health of your child’s teeth, gums, and jaw, setting the stage for a stronger, more confident smile long-term.
What Are Early Braces Like for Kids?
Braces used to correct an anterior crossbite do not look like a full set of adolescent braces. This type of early treatment is usually done shortly after the permanent front teeth erupt—before most of the other adult teeth come in.
Your child will typically receive a “2×4” braces setup, which includes:
- Two brackets on the 6-year molars
- Four brackets on the upper front teeth only
This targeted approach allows us to make the necessary correction efficiently and gently, without placing braces on baby teeth whenever possible.
Most early treatment cases are completed in less than 12 months. Keeping treatment short helps reduce the risk of:
- Enamel scarring from plaque buildup
- Burnout with brushing and oral hygiene routines
To further protect your child’s smile during treatment, we strongly recommend:
- Continuing regular dental cleanings
- Maintaining fluoride treatments
- Practicing excellent daily brushing and flossing at home
What Happens After the Crossbite Is Corrected?
Once your child’s teeth are properly aligned, they will be given a retainer to help prevent relapse while the rest of their permanent teeth continue to come in.
After all permanent teeth have erupted, your child may later choose to pursue full orthodontic treatment for a beautifully aligned smile and a healthy bite—if needed.
A Strong Foundation for a Lifetime of Smiles
Early orthodontic treatment is always recommended only when truly necessary, and our goal is to guide your child’s smile development safely, comfortably, and confidently.