Common Orthodontic Problems in Children
Helping Your Child Grow into a Confident, Healthy Smile
At Drake Road Orthodontics, we believe orthodontic care is about more than straight teeth — it’s about guiding healthy growth, supporting proper function, and helping your child feel confident every step of the way.
Many orthodontic concerns begin early. That’s why we focus on proactive evaluation and personalized treatment designed around your child’s unique development.
Here are some of the most common orthodontic issues we see in children:
Overbite
An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth overlap the lower teeth too much.
Why it’s important to address:
Excessive wear on teeth, jaw discomfort, and potential speech concerns.
Our approach:
We evaluate growth patterns early and use braces or aligners when the timing is right to create a balanced, healthy bite.
Underbite
An underbite happens when the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth.
Why it matters:
It can affect chewing efficiency, jaw comfort, and long-term dental health.
Our approach:
Early intervention may include growth-guiding appliances, followed by comprehensive orthodontic treatment as your child matures.
Crossbite
A crossbite occurs when upper teeth fit inside the lower teeth.
Why early care helps:
Untreated crossbites can influence jaw development and cause uneven tooth wear.
Our approach:
Gentle expansion techniques and early monitoring help guide proper alignment during growth.
Open Bite
An open bite means the upper and lower teeth don’t meet when the mouth is closed.
Common causes:
Thumb sucking, tongue habits, or natural growth patterns.
Our approach:
We focus on correcting habits early and aligning the bite for long-term function and stability.
Crowding & Spacing
Crowding occurs when there isn’t enough space for teeth to erupt properly.
Spacing refers to noticeable gaps between teeth.
Both can affect oral hygiene and overall smile aesthetics.
Our approach:
Through careful planning — including expanders, braces, or aligners — we create space and alignment while preserving facial balance.
When Should Your Child Have an Orthodontic Evaluation?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children see an orthodontist by age 7.
At Drake Road Orthodontics, we offer complimentary consultations to evaluate growth, answer your questions, and determine the best timing for treatment — if treatment is needed at all.
Personalized Care. Thoughtful Timing. Lasting Results.
Every child develops differently. Our goal is to monitor growth carefully, intervene only when appropriate, and design a treatment plan that supports both oral health and confidence.
If you’re wondering whether your child may benefit from an evaluation, we’re here to help guide you — comfortably and confidently — every step of the way.