Kids Braces in Dallas: What Parents Should Know

/ Ohlenforst Carney Orthodontics/
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Timing matters when it comes to orthodontic care. As a parent, knowing when to bring your child to the orthodontist can make all the difference — helping to prevent more serious dental problems down the road and guiding your child’s smile toward healthy development.

At Ohlenforst Carney Orthodontics, we specialize in early orthodontic care for kids and teens, offering a comfortable, personalized approach that helps every child feel confident about their smile.

🦷 When Should Children First See an Orthodontist in Dallas?

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that all children have an orthodontic screening by age 7.

This early visit doesn’t always lead to immediate treatment — but it allows Dr. Lauren Carney to evaluate your child’s jaw growth, bite alignment, and tooth development to identify potential issues before they become more complex.

Early exams are especially valuable if your child shows crowding, bite problems, or habits like thumb-sucking that may affect dental alignment.

Learn more about early treatment on our Early Orthodontic Treatment page.

🧒 When Are Most Kids Braces Typically Started?

Most kids begin treatment between ages 10 and 14, when most permanent teeth have erupted and the jaw is still developing.

During this phase, Dr. Carney can guide teeth into their ideal positions more efficiently, which often leads to shorter treatment times and more stable results.

If your child is younger but already showing signs of misalignment, we may recommend a two-phase treatment plan that starts with early interceptive care and finishes once all permanent teeth are in.

👀 Signs That Your Child Might Need Braces

Not sure if your child is ready for orthodontic care? Schedule an exam if you notice any of the following:

  • Teeth that are crowded or crooked

  • Difficulty biting or chewing

  • Thumb-sucking beyond age 5

  • Early or late loss of baby teeth

  • Jaws that shift or make noises

  • Protruding teeth or visible gaps

Even if you’re not sure, an early evaluation can help catch small issues before they turn into bigger ones.

😁 Treatment Options for Kids and Teens

At Ohlenforst Carney Orthodontics, we offer a full range of treatment options designed for comfort, effectiveness, and confidence:

  • Metal Braces: Durable and efficient for all types of bite and alignment issues.

  • Ceramic Braces: A discreet option with clear brackets that blend in with your child’s smile.

  • 3M™ Clarity™ Aligners: A clear aligner system that offers flexibility and an almost invisible appearance.

Dr. Carney will help you and your child choose the best treatment based on age, goals, and lifestyle.

🌟 Advantages of Early Evaluation

Early orthodontic screening and treatment can:

  • Reduce the complexity of care later

  • Monitor jaw and tooth development as your child grows

  • Prevent more serious bite issues before they worsen

  • Avoid or minimize extractions or surgery later on

Sometimes, no immediate treatment is needed — just careful observation and growth monitoring. Our team will guide you every step of the way.

💙 Your Partner in Pediatric Orthodontics

At Ohlenforst Carney Orthodontics, Dr. Lauren Carney takes a thoughtful, conservative approach to early orthodontic care. We focus on making treatment gentle, fun, and effective — helping kids build great habits and confidence that last a lifetime.

If your child is ready for their first orthodontic visit, schedule a free new patient exam today to discuss whether early evaluation or treatment might be right for them.

👉 Schedule Your Free Consultation

External Resource:
Learn more about early orthodontic screening from the American Association of Orthodontists.