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One of the most common questions parents in Chico ask us is:
“When should my child get braces?”

The answer may surprise you—it's earlier than most people think.

The Best Age for an Orthodontic Evaluation

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should have their first orthodontic evaluation at age 7.
Why so young? Because at age 7:

• Baby teeth and adult teeth are both present
• The jaw is still growing
• Early issues can be caught before they become bigger problems
• Orthodontists can guide jaw development when it matters most

This doesn’t mean every child gets braces at age 7, but it does allow Dr. Graydon Carr to monitor growth and intervene at the right time.

Signs Your Child May Need Braces

You may notice:

• Crowded or crooked teeth
• Early or late loss of baby teeth
• Bite issues (overbite, underbite, crossbite)
• Teeth that don’t come together
• Mouth breathing
• Difficulty chewing

Even if everything looks “fine,” only a trained orthodontist can identify early jaw or bite concerns.

Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment

Early treatment can:

• Reduce the need for extractions later
• Improve facial growth and symmetry
• Create space for adult teeth
• Prevent trauma to protruded front teeth
• Reduce treatment time as a teen
• Boost confidence during childhood

Why Chico Parents Trust Carr Orthodontics

At Carr Orthodontics, we offer:

• Complimentary growth-check visits
• Kid-friendly treatment options
• Clear braces, metal braces, and early expanders
• A warm, welcoming environment for families

We love watching Chico kids grow with confidence as their smiles develop.

Schedule Your Child’s First Orthodontic Check

If your child is around age seven—or you're noticing bite concerns—schedule a free evaluation at Carr Orthodontics. Early guidance leads to better smiles.

Parents often ask: “How old does my child need to be for Invisalign Teen?”

Ideal Ages for Invisalign Teen

• 11–17 years old
• After most adult teeth have erupted
• When teens can responsibly wear aligners 22 hours a day

Why Teens Love Invisalign

• Almost invisible
• No food restrictions
• Fewer office visits
• Great for sports and instruments

At Carr Orthodontics, many Chico teens finish Invisalign with beautiful, confident smiles—often faster than braces.

If you’re considering braces, you may wonder: “Do braces hurt?” The truth is, braces don’t hurt, but they can cause temporary soreness as teeth begin moving.

What to Expect

• Mild pressure for 2–3 days
• Sensitivity when biting
• Occasional rubbing on cheeks (easily solved with wax)

Most discomfort disappears quickly, and our Chico patients are often surprised by how smooth the process feels.

How Carr Orthodontics Minimizes Discomfort

• Small, low-profile braces
• Smooth archwires
• Gentle, modern techniques
• Comfort kits for new patients

Many patients ask: “Is Invisalign as good as braces?” The answer is yes—for the right case. At Carr Orthodontics, we help Chico patients understand the strengths of both.

Where Invisalign Performs Best

• Mild to moderate crowding
• Spacing issues
• Mild bite corrections
• Patients wanting cosmetic, removable appliances

Where Braces Perform Best

• Severe overbites or underbites
• Complex rotations
• Cases requiring precise tooth control
• Younger patients who may struggle with compliance

Both Achieve Great Results

At Carr Orthodontics, we use advanced planning to make either option successful. Dr. Graydon Carr helps each patient choose the method that fits their lifestyle and orthodontic goals.