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When it comes to your child’s health, early detection is key—and their smile is no exception. Many parents are surprised to learn that the American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this stage, your child has a mix of baby and permanent teeth, making it the ideal time to spot growth patterns and potential concerns.

Early orthodontic treatment—sometimes called “Phase I”—doesn’t always mean your child will get braces right away. Instead, it helps guide jaw development, prevent more serious issues, and make later treatment faster and easier.

Here are 7 important signs your child may benefit from an early orthodontic evaluation.

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1. Crowded or Misaligned Teeth

If your child’s teeth overlap, twist, or seem too close together, there may not be enough room for permanent teeth to emerge properly. Early treatment can help create space so teeth come in straight and healthy.

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2. Early or Late Loss of Baby Teeth

Baby teeth usually fall out in a fairly predictable sequence.
Too early? Permanent teeth may shift into the wrong spots.
Too late? It can block adult teeth from erupting.

If your child’s baby teeth are on either extreme, it’s a good reason to schedule a checkup.

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3. Difficulty Biting, Chewing, or Speaking

If your child struggles to bite into food, chews unevenly, or has speech challenges related to tooth position, it may indicate structural issues with the bite or jaw.

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4. Thumb or Finger Sucking Beyond Age 4

Thumb or finger habits can push teeth forward, narrow the palate, and change how teeth fit together. An orthodontic evaluation can help determine if the habit has affected your child’s bite—and what gentle solutions can help correct it.

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5. Mouth Breathing

Chronic mouth breathing isn’t just a habit—it’s often linked to airway issues, and it can affect facial and dental development. Early orthodontic care may help improve both form and function.

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6. Protruding Teeth (Overjet)

If your child’s front teeth stick out, they’re more vulnerable to injury during sports or play. This is one of the most common reasons children benefit from early orthodontic intervention.

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7. A Jaw That Seems Too Far Forward or Too Far Back

If the upper or lower jaw looks noticeably off balance, it could indicate a developing overbite, underbite, or crossbite. Catching these issues early makes treatment simpler, more comfortable, and more effective.

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Why Early Treatment Matters

Early orthodontic care can:

• Guide proper jaw growth
• Reduce the need for tooth extractions later
• Create space for incoming permanent teeth
• Improve bite function and facial balance
• Boost your child’s confidence
• Make future orthodontic treatment faster and easier

Not every child needs early treatment—but every child deserves an early evaluation to ensure the best smile possible.

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Schedule Your Child’s Complimentary Exam at Holt Orthodontics

We love helping kids feel confident about their smiles! If you’ve noticed any of these signs—or simply want peace of mind—our friendly team is here for you.

Call us or request an appointment online to get started.

Early evaluations lead to healthier smiles. Let’s give your child the best start possible!

For the longest time, I thought I simply had one crooked tooth. Just one little front tooth that seemed to be getting more stubborn as I got older. But once I finally went in for a consultation, I learned something surprising: it wasn’t just that one tooth at all. My jaw had actually narrowed over time—a completely normal part of aging—and that shifting had caused multiple teeth to crowd and rotate. What I thought was a tiny cosmetic fix turned out to be a bigger alignment issue that needed real attention.

After months of tiny trays, discipline, and a commitment to self-care, there’s nothing quite like the moment you snap that final aligner out and see the smile you’ve worked for. Many adults put off orthodontic treatment for years. Schedules are full, responsibilities are heavy, and it’s easy to think it’s “too late” to fix your smile. But Invisalign changes that. It’s discreet, manageable, and blends seamlessly with busy adult life. You can attend client meetings, enjoy dinners out, and live your life without metal brackets stealing the spotlight.

The Benefits of Finally Having Straight Teeth

Straight teeth are about more than aesthetics. There are countless long-term perks, including:

Better Oral Health

Aligned teeth are easier to brush and floss, which means fewer hidden spots where plaque and tartar can build up.

Reduced Risk of Dental Issues

Straightening your bite can help prevent chipping, enamel wear, gum recession, and jaw discomfort.

Long-Term Self-Investment

Orthodontic treatment pays off for decades. Every photo, every conversation, every moment you choose to smile… it all feels better.

The Holt Orthodontics Experience: Where Care Meets Craftsmanship

I couldn’t talk about my Invisalign journey without highlighting the incredible experience at Holt Orthodontics. From day one, their team made the process feel personal, supportive, and enjoyable. Every appointment felt like visiting a team that genuinely cared—not just about my teeth, but about me as a person. They listened, encouraged, and celebrated every milestone along the way.

Dr. Gary Holt: The Orthodontist You Want

Dr. Gary Holt has a reputation for excellence—and now I know why.
He’s a perfectionist in the best possible sense: detail-oriented, precise, and committed to making sure the final outcome is truly exceptional. His expertise made me feel completely confident throughout the process, and the results speak for themselves.

Walking Away With a New Smile

Finishing Invisalign as an adult feels like crossing a finish line. Now, every time I smile, I’m reminded that it’s never too late to invest in yourself—and that choosing the right orthodontist makes all the difference.

If you’re considering Invisalign or orthodontic treatment, I can’t recommend Holt Orthodontics and Dr. Gary Holt enough. They don’t just straighten teeth—they transform smiles and support you every step of the way.

Choosing to straighten your teeth is an exciting step toward a healthier, more confident smile. Today, patients have more options than ever before, with two of the most popular being traditional braces and clear aligners. At Holt Orthodontics, we believe the best treatment is the one that fits your lifestyle, needs, and goals. Let’s break down the differences to help you make an informed decision.

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Traditional Braces

Braces have been around for decades, and for good reason—they’re highly effective at correcting even the most complex orthodontic issues.

Pros of Braces:

• Effective for all cases: From mild crowding to severe bite issues, braces can handle it all.
• No compliance worries: Since braces are fixed to your teeth, they work 24/7 without needing to be removed or replaced.
• Customizable options: Many patients, especially younger ones, enjoy choosing colored bands for a personalized touch.

Things to Consider:

• Brushing and flossing can be more challenging and require extra care.
• Food restrictions apply—sticky, chewy, or crunchy foods can damage brackets and wires.
• Braces are visible, which may make some patients self-conscious.

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Clear Aligners

Clear aligners, such as Invisalign®, use a series of removable trays to gently move your teeth into position. They’ve become increasingly popular for both teens and adults.

Pros of Clear Aligners:

• Nearly invisible: Most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them.
• Removable: You can take them out for meals, brushing, and flossing—making oral hygiene easier.
• Comfortable: No brackets or wires to cause irritation.

Things to Consider:

• Discipline is key: Aligners must be worn 20–22 hours per day to be effective.
• Not ideal for all cases: Severe or complex issues may be better treated with braces.
• Easy to misplace: Since aligners are removable, they can be lost if not stored properly.

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How to Decide What’s Best for You

The choice between braces and clear aligners often depends on your individual needs and lifestyle:

• If you have a busy schedule, are prone to forgetting, or have complex orthodontic issues → Braces may be the better fit.
• If you want a discreet option, value flexibility, and are committed to wearing them as directed → Clear aligners could be perfect.

At Holt Orthodontics, our team will carefully evaluate your teeth, bite, and goals to recommend the best treatment option for you.

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Ready to Begin Your Smile Journey?

Whether you choose braces or clear aligners, both paths lead to the same destination: a beautiful, healthy smile. The good news? You don’t have to decide alone. Schedule a consultation at Holt Orthodontics, and together, we’ll design a treatment plan that fits your life and helps you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.

Starting orthodontic treatment is an exciting step toward a healthier, more confident smile—but life with braces does come with an adjustment period. At Holt Orthodontics, we want you to feel prepared and supported throughout your journey. With a few simple tips and good habits, you’ll find that living with braces can be much easier than you think.

Foods to Avoid (and Enjoy!)

Braces are strong, but certain foods can damage wires or brackets. To keep your treatment on track:

• Avoid sticky foods like caramel, taffy, and chewing gum.
• Skip hard or crunchy snacks such as popcorn, ice, nuts, and hard candies.
• Be careful with crunchy fruits and veggies—cut apples and carrots into bite-sized pieces instead of biting directly into them.

The good news? There are plenty of delicious, braces-friendly foods:

• Soft fruits like bananas, berries, and melons
• Dairy products such as yogurt and cheese
• Cooked vegetables, pasta, rice, and soft breads
• Protein options like eggs, chicken, or fish

Choosing the right foods will help prevent broken brackets and keep your smile moving in the right direction.

Oral Hygiene with Braces

Braces create more spaces for food particles and plaque to hide, so oral hygiene becomes especially important. Here are some must-do habits:

• Brush after every meal using a soft-bristle toothbrush or an electric toothbrush.
• Angle your brush to clean around brackets and wires carefully.
• Floss daily with floss threaders, orthodontic floss, or a water flosser for easier cleaning.
• Rinse with fluoride mouthwash to strengthen enamel and prevent cavities.

Keeping your teeth clean will not only make your braces experience smoother but also ensure your smile looks amazing when treatment is complete.

Managing Soreness and Discomfort

It’s normal to experience some soreness when braces are first applied or after adjustments. Here are some ways to stay comfortable:

• Over-the-counter pain relief (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) can help with temporary discomfort.
• Orthodontic wax can cover any brackets or wires that irritate your cheeks or lips.
• Warm saltwater rinses soothe tender areas inside your mouth.
• Soft foods—like smoothies, mashed potatoes, or soups—are your best friends during the first few days after adjustments.

Discomfort usually fades quickly, and before long, wearing braces will feel like second nature.

A Smoother Journey to Your Best Smile

Braces are an investment in your health and confidence. By choosing braces-friendly foods, sticking to a strong cleaning routine, and managing soreness wisely, you’ll set yourself up for success.

At Holt Orthodontics, our team is here to answer questions and provide guidance every step of the way. If you ever have concerns about your braces—or just need a little extra advice—don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we’ll make your orthodontic journey as smooth and rewarding as possible.