You look at your child’s smile, and something seems off. Maybe the teeth are crowding. Maybe the jaw looks uneven. Your first instinct is to act fast, but is that the right move? Or should you wait until they’re older?

This is one of the most common questions parents across Indianapolis ask. The answer is not always simple, but it is absolutely understandable. With the right evaluation at the right age, you can make a clear, confident decision for your child’s smile.

At Biggs-Hansen Orthodontics, we work with families throughout Indianapolis and surrounding communities to provide honest, thorough orthodontic evaluations, starting at age 7. Dr. Biggs and his team help you understand exactly what your child needs and when.

Meet Dr. Jeffery Biggs, DDS, MS

Dr. Jeffery Biggs earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Indiana University School of Dentistry. He then completed his advanced training in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics at Loma Linda University, earning both his certificate and a Master’s Degree in the field.

Dr. Biggs is a Board-Certified Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontists, one of the highest credentials an orthodontist can earn. He is also a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, the Indiana Association of Orthodontists, and the American Dental Association.

With decades of experience serving Indianapolis families, Dr. Biggs is known for his patient, thorough approach. Parents consistently describe him as personable and clear, someone who takes the time to explain every step so you always know what to expect.

What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment?

Early orthodontic treatment, also called Phase 1 or interceptive orthodontics, refers to treatment that begins before all permanent teeth come in. This typically happens between ages 7 and 10.

It is not about putting braces on young children for cosmetic reasons. It is about identifying and correcting specific problems while your child’s jaw is still growing and most responsive to treatment.

Why Age 7 Is the Recommended Starting Point

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, your child has a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth, and that combination gives an orthodontist a clear picture of how things are developing.

An early screening does not always mean early treatment. For many kids, the result is simply: “Everything looks good, come back in a year.” But for some children, catching a problem early can save time, money, and discomfort down the road.

Signs Your Child May Need Early Treatment

Not every child needs early braces, but there are clear warning signs that parents should not ignore. Watch for:

• Teeth that are visibly crowded or overlapping
• Early or late loss of baby teeth (before age 5 or after age 13)
• Difficulty chewing or biting food
• Mouth breathing or snoring
• Thumb-sucking habits past age 5
• Upper and lower teeth that do not meet properly (overbite, underbite, or crossbite)
• Jaw that shifts to one side when your child bites down

If you notice any of these signs, it is worth scheduling an evaluation. Many of these issues respond well to early intervention and become much harder to correct once jaw growth is complete.

What Early Treatment Can Prevent

Starting treatment at the right early stage can make a major difference in your child’s overall orthodontic journey. At Biggs-Hansen Orthodontics, early treatment has helped patients avoid:

Impacted Teeth:  permanent teeth that get stuck and cannot erupt properly

Permanent Tooth Extractions: because early space management can preserve room

Jaw Surgery: early growth guidance can correct jaw alignment before it becomes structural

Longer Phase 2 Treatment: many kids who complete Phase 1 have shorter and simpler braces treatment later

Early treatment does not always eliminate the need for braces in the teen years. But it can significantly reduce the complexity and duration of that later treatment.

When Late Braces Are the Right Choice

For many children, braces during the teen years, typically between ages 11 and 15, is the perfect time. This is when most or all of the permanent teeth have come in, and the jaw is still flexible enough to respond well to orthodontic treatment.

Late braces work well when:

• Your child has no significant jaw alignment issues
• Spacing and crowding are mild to moderate
• All or most permanent teeth have erupted
• Your child is motivated and can follow care instructions

Many teenagers do beautifully with traditional braces or clear aligners during this window. Treatment typically runs 12 to 30 months, depending on complexity.

The Risk of Waiting Too Long

While there is no single “deadline” for braces, waiting too long can create challenges. Once jaw growth is complete, usually in the late teens, certain corrections that could have been made with appliances alone may require surgery. Crowded teeth that are left untreated can also lead to hygiene issues and a higher risk of cavities and gum disease.

Early Braces vs. Late Braces: A Simple Comparison

Early Treatment (Ages 7–10) Is Right When:

• There is a jaw growth problem (underbite, crossbite, narrow palate)
• Baby teeth are falling out too early or too late
• There is a risk of impacted permanent teeth
• Habits like thumb-sucking have caused bite problems

Traditional Braces (Ages 11–15) Are Right When:

• Jaw development is normal
• The main issue is tooth alignment or crowding
• All or most permanent teeth are in place
• No previous Phase 1 treatment was needed

The key takeaway: neither approach is universally better. The right timing depends entirely on your child’s specific development. That is exactly why a professional evaluation matters so much.

What to Expect at Your Child’s First Consultation

Your child’s first visit is relaxed, low-pressure, and completely informative. Dr. Biggs will conduct a thorough examination, which may include digital X-rays and 3D imaging. He will review your child’s tooth eruption, jaw alignment, bite, and any current or anticipated concerns.

At the end of the appointment, you will have a clear picture of:

• Whether treatment is recommended now or later
• What the treatment would involve and how long it would take
• What happens if you choose to wait

There is never pressure to start treatment before it is needed. Dr. Biggs and the team believe in honest, individualized treatment plans, not one-size-fits-all approaches.

Due to advances in treatment technology at this Indianapolis dental office, most patients are seen for adjustments only once every 8 to 12 weeks, much less frequently than many parents remember from their own childhood orthodontic experiences.

If you are unsure whether your child needs braces now or later, the best step is to schedule a consultation. Call us at 317-316-0285 and let Dr. Biggs give you a clear, honest assessment. Early evaluation takes the guesswork out of one of the most important decisions you can make for your child’s oral health.

Give Your Child a Smile That Lasts a Lifetime

The question of early vs. late braces need not be confusing. With the right information and the right orthodontist, you can make a decision you feel confident about.

At Biggs-Hansen Orthodontics, families from across Indianapolis, Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, Westfield, and Zionsville trust Dr. Biggs and his team for thoughtful, thorough orthodontic care. Whether your child is 7 or 14, we will help you understand exactly where they stand and what the path forward looks like.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. At what age should my child have their first orthodontic evaluation?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an evaluation by age 7. At this stage, an orthodontist can spot developing problems early enough to act at the most effective time.

2. Does early orthodontic treatment mean my child will have braces for years?

Not at all. Phase 1 treatment typically uses appliances, not full braces, for a limited time. Many children who complete Phase 1 enter Phase 2 with shorter overall treatment times.

3. What is the difference between an orthodontist and a regular dentist?

Orthodontists complete two to three additional years of specialized training after dental school, focusing entirely on tooth movement, jaw alignment, and bite correction. They handle cases that go beyond routine dental care.

4. How do I know if my child needs early treatment vs. waiting for traditional braces?

Only a professional evaluation can answer that clearly. Jaw problems, crossbites, underbites, and impacted teeth often need early attention. Mild crowding may respond well to traditional braces in the teen years.

5. What types of braces are available for children and teens?

Options include traditional metal braces, clear ceramic braces, and clear aligners. The right choice depends on your child’s specific treatment needs, maturity level, and your family’s preferences.