As a parent, you want to ensure your child grows up with a healthy, confident smile. But as their permanent teeth start coming in, you may notice crowding, overlapping, or crooked teeth.
At McDonough Orthodontics, we see many children who do not have enough room in their mouths for their adult teeth to come in properly. When teeth are too crowded, they can shift out of place, get stuck under the gums (impacted), or contribute to bite issues. The good news? Dr. McDonough can help by identifying these issues early and recommending the best orthodontic solutions to guide your child’s smile into proper alignment. We specialize in creating space for teeth to ensure your child’s smile develops properly.
What Happens When There Is Not Enough Space?
If your child’s mouth does not have enough room for new teeth, it can lead to:
- Crowding – Teeth that overlap or twist can be difficult to clean, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Bite Problems – Misaligned teeth can affect chewing, speaking, and even jaw comfort.
- Impacted Teeth – When a tooth does not have space to erupt, it may remain stuck under the gums, sometimes requiring surgery.
- Speech Issues – Crowded or misaligned teeth can make certain sounds harder to pronounce.
If your child’s baby teeth are falling out too soon or too late, or if their new teeth appear crowded, Dr. McDonough can assess their bite alignment and determine whether early orthodontic treatment is necessary.
How We Help in Creating Space for Teeth
Every child’s smile develops differently, which is why Dr. McDonough takes a personalized approach to orthodontic care. If your child needs more space for incoming teeth, McDonough Orthodontics may recommend:
- Palatal Expanders – These devices gently widen the upper jaw in younger children, helping prevent crowding before it starts. They are an effective tool in creating space for teeth by gently widening the upper jaw.
- Braces or Clear Aligners – Traditional Braces and aligners help in creating space for teeth, ensuring proper alignment and a healthier bite They can strategically move teeth to make room for new ones.
- Space Maintainers – If a baby tooth is lost too early, a space maintainer holds the spot open until the permanent tooth erupts.
- Tooth Extraction (Only If Necessary) – Removing a baby tooth or a permanent tooth can help prevent severe crowding and make orthodontic treatment more effective. But tooth extraction is only recommended when absolutely necessary.
At McDonough Orthodontics, we do not just straighten teeth—we focus on creating a functional, long-lasting smile that supports your child’s oral health.
When Should My Child See Dr. McDonough for an Evaluation?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic checkup by age 7. This recommendation does not necessarily mean your child will need braces immediately, but it does allow Dr. McDonough to spot potential spacing issues early and guide your child’s dental development.
If your child is between the ages of 7-12, they can join our complimentary OWLS (Orthodontic Wellness Program). This program consists of regular, no-cost visits to monitor their dental development and determine the best timing for any necessary orthodontic care.
Signs Your Child May Need Space Created for Their Teeth:
- Losing baby teeth too early or too late
- Permanent teeth looking crowded or crooked
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing or thumb-sucking past toddler years
- Complaints of jaw pain or difficulty speaking clearly
If you notice crowding or misalignment, early orthodontic care can help in creating space for teeth before problems worsen. An early consultation with Dr. McDonough can save time, money, and potential dental complications in the future.
Give Your Child the Gift of a Healthy Smile
A straight, well-aligned smile is not just about looks—it is about health, comfort, and confidence. Addressing spacing concerns early, you can help your child avoid more complex orthodontic treatments later on.
If you have concerns about your child’s dental alignment, McDonough Orthodontics specializes in creating space for teeth to support a healthy, confident smile. Contact us today and let us work together to give your child a healthy, beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime!
McDonough Orthodontics
801-266-2662