Causes, Effects, and When to See an Orthodontist

Every parent wants their child to grow up confident and smiling. But misaligned teeth can quietly get in the way — affecting everything from self-esteem to dental health. Here's what causes crooked teeth in children, how it can affect them, and what to do about it.

What Causes Crooked Teeth in Children?

The most common cause of crooked teeth is genetics. If you or your partner needed braces or other orthodontic work growing up, your child has a significantly higher chance of needing it too.

Other common causes include:

• Prolonged pacifier use past the recommended age
• Prolonged thumb-sucking
• Injury to the mouth or jaw
• Early loss of baby teeth, which can cause remaining teeth to shift
• Mouth breathing, often linked to allergies or enlarged tonsils/adenoids

How Crooked Teeth Affect Kids: Psychological Effects

Kids with visibly crooked teeth are often more self-conscious about their smile. This can show up as:

• Smiling less in photos or around peers
• Covering their mouth when they laugh or talk
• Being less outgoing in social situations
• Lower self-esteem, particularly during the tween and teen years

Research consistently links improved dental appearance with higher self-esteem and stronger social confidence in children and adolescents. A straighter smile isn't just cosmetic — it can directly shape how comfortable a child feels being themselves.

How Crooked Teeth Affect Kids: Physical Effects

Beyond confidence, misaligned teeth create real oral health challenges:

• Harder to clean. Crowded or overlapping teeth create tight spaces where plaque and bacteria build up.
• Uneven wear. A misaligned bite can wear down enamel unevenly over time.
• Higher cavity risk. Trapped food and plaque increase the chance of decay in hard-to-reach spots.
• Difficulty learning good habits. It's harder for kids to master brushing and flossing technique around crooked teeth, which compounds the problem as they grow.

When Should a Child First See an Orthodontist?

The Canadian Orthodontic Association recommends a first orthodontic evaluation by age 7, even if a child still has baby teeth. Early evaluation doesn't always mean early treatment — but it means catching potential issues while they're easiest and least invasive to correct.

You don't need a referral from your dentist to book this visit.

FAQ

What age should a child first see an orthodontist? The Canadian Orthodontic Association recommends age 7 at the latest, even if the child still has baby teeth.

What causes crooked teeth in kids? Genetics is the leading cause. Prolonged pacifier use, thumb-sucking, mouth breathing, and injury to the mouth can also contribute.

Do crooked teeth actually affect a child's confidence? Yes. Studies show a link between dental appearance and self-esteem, and many kids with crooked teeth smile less and feel more self-conscious in social settings.

Do I need a referral to see an orthodontist? No, most orthodontic evaluations don't require a dentist referral.