We provide early orthodontic care in Fort Worth at Ahava Orthodontics to help families prevent and treat misaligned teeth in children before problems become more complex. Drs. Andy and Shawne Barron are passionate about identifying the true causes of crooked teeth, allowing for timely, gentle treatment that sets the stage for a healthy, confident smile.
Misaligned teeth are not just a cosmetic issue—they can impact chewing, speech, and oral hygiene. Parents often wonder why their child’s teeth are growing in unevenly or why their bite doesn’t look quite right. The truth is, a variety of factors can contribute to early orthodontic issues, and many are preventable or manageable with early care.
Common Causes of Misaligned Teeth in Children
To understand how to treat misalignment, it’s essential to first recognize what causes it. Genetics, habits, and health conditions all play a role in how a child’s teeth and jaws develop.
1. Genetics
Just like eye color or height, the shape and size of a child’s jaw and teeth are influenced by genetics. If one or both parents had braces, there’s a good chance their child may inherit traits like a small jaw or crowded teeth.
2. Prolonged Thumb-Sucking or Pacifier Use
While sucking is a natural reflex for babies, prolonged use of pacifiers or thumb-sucking beyond the toddler years can cause teeth to shift or grow in crooked. These habits exert pressure on the front teeth and can alter the shape of the dental arch.
3. Mouth Breathing
When a child breathes through their mouth instead of their nose, it affects the way the tongue rests in the mouth. Over time, this can lead to a narrow upper jaw, high palate, and improper alignment of the teeth. It may also contribute to open bites and overbites.
4. Early or Late Loss of Baby Teeth
Baby teeth serve as guides for adult teeth. If a baby tooth falls out too early—due to injury or decay—the neighboring teeth may shift, leaving little room for the permanent tooth to erupt correctly. Conversely, if baby teeth are retained too long, they can block adult teeth and lead to crowding.
5. Poor Oral Habits or Trauma
Habits like tongue thrusting, nail biting, or using teeth to open objects can shift the alignment of teeth. Injuries to the face or jaw can also disrupt normal growth patterns.
Early Signs Your Child Might Need Orthodontic Care
The earlier a problem is detected, the easier it is to treat. Look for these signs that may indicate your child is developing a misalignment:
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Difficulty chewing or biting food evenly
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Crowded or overlapping teeth
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Breathing mostly through the mouth
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Teeth that stick out or don’t come together properly
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Speech difficulties or lisping
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Jaw shifting or popping when opening or closing
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time for a consultation—even if your child still has baby teeth. Early evaluation doesn’t always mean immediate braces, but it allows the orthodontist to monitor growth and intervene when necessary.
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment
Early treatment, also known as interceptive orthodontics, focuses on correcting problems before they get worse. This phase typically occurs between ages 7 and 10 and can involve a range of gentle, non-invasive techniques.
Some common early treatments include:
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Palate expanders to widen the upper jaw and create space for adult teeth
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Partial braces to guide teeth into better positions
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Space maintainers to hold room for permanent teeth
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Habit-correcting appliances for thumb-sucking or tongue thrust
By addressing problems early, we can often reduce the length or complexity of treatment later on. In some cases, early care eliminates the need for future braces or surgery altogether.
How Ahava Orthodontics Supports Fort Worth Families
At Ahava Orthodontics, we treat every child like family. Drs. Andy and Shawne Barron offer comprehensive evaluations that look beyond tooth alignment to consider jaw development, airway health, and long-term function. We help parents understand what’s going on and create a step-by-step plan for treatment—without pressure or confusion.
We know orthodontic care is a big decision, and we’re here to answer every question with compassion and clarity. With flexible payment options and a friendly, welcoming environment, we make it easier for families to get the care they need, when they need it.
For more support on guiding your child’s smile the right way
Get the help your child needs early to avoid bigger issues later. At Ahava Orthodontics in Fort Worth, our expert team focuses on identifying the root causes of misaligned teeth and providing gentle solutions that work with your child’s natural growth. Whether your little one has started showing signs of dental crowding or you’re just being proactive, we’re here with personalized guidance, supportive care, and a smile-first approach. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and give your child the foundation for a lifetime of confident grins.
