Growing up in Papillion means plenty of reasons to smile—cheering on the Omaha Storm Chasers, exploring Walnut Creek Recreation Area, or grabbing ice cream at our local Dairy Queen in Papillion. But what happens when a growing smile needs a little expert attention? Dr. Hawley and Dr. Brace at Hawley Orthodontics help kids, teens, and adults figure out the right time for their first orthodontic visit. Let’s break down when to schedule that first appointment and why timing can make all the difference.
The Best Time for Kids
Most parents assume orthodontic treatment starts in the teenage years, but an early check-up can be a game changer. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first visit around age 7, even if there aren’t obvious issues.
Dr. Hawley and Dr. Brace use these early appointments to look for things like:
- Crowding or spacing issues that could affect how adult teeth grow in.
- Bite problems like overbites, underbites, or crossbites that might cause future discomfort.
- Early or late loss of baby teeth, which can impact the position of permanent teeth.
For many kids, no treatment is needed yet, but monitoring growth can help determine the best timing down the road. Now, what about older kids and teens? Let’s look at why those years are the most common for orthodontic treatment.
The Teenage Years (The Most Common Time for Treatment)
Middle school and high school come with plenty of big moments—sports games, homecoming dances, and snapshots with friends. Since the jaw is still growing, teeth respond more efficiently to treatment, helping many teens achieve great results in less time.
Dr. Hawley and Dr. Brace work with teens at Hawley Orthodontics to find the right fit for their lifestyle. Some prefer traditional braces, while others opt for Invisalign, a nearly invisible treatment that allows them to straighten their teeth without metal brackets.
Why do so many teens start treatment during this stage?
- Shifting teeth are easier to adjust while the jaw is still developing.
- Crowding and spacing problems become more noticeable once baby teeth are gone.
- Bite issues like overbites and underbites can be corrected more effectively.
- Social confidence—many teens feel more comfortable starting treatment alongside friends.
Hawley Orthodontics provides a comfortable and encouraging experience for teens, making the process as smooth as possible. But what if braces were never an option growing up? More adults than ever are choosing to start orthodontic care later in life, and the benefits are worth it.
Orthodontic Care for Adults: It’s Never Too Late
More adults are choosing orthodontic treatment for health, confidence, or simply to correct shifting teeth from the past. Hawley Orthodontics offers a variety of options designed to fit busy schedules, including Invisalign for those who want a nearly invisible solution.
Why Are More Adults Seeking Treatment?
- Shifting Teeth – Teeth can move over time, even after childhood orthodontic care.
- Bite Concerns – Misalignment can cause uneven wear on teeth and even jaw tension.
- Confidence Boost – A straighter smile can make a difference in personal and professional settings.
- More Options Than Ever – Clear aligners and modern braces make treatment more convenient and discreet.
Common Concerns About Adult Orthodontics
Am I too old for braces?
Not at all! Teeth can be adjusted at any age, and treatment is customized for adults.
Will it take too long?
Many adults complete treatment in 12-24 months, depending on their needs.
What about appearance?
Invisalign offers a low-profile option, and even modern braces are sleeker than before.
Dr. Hawley and Dr. Brace work with adults across Papillion to create flexible, customized treatment plans. Now that we’ve covered the best timing for kids, teens, and adults, let’s talk about the signs that an orthodontic visit might be overdue.
When to Stop Waiting and Book That First Visit
Some orthodontic concerns show up early in childhood, while others develop over time. Dr. Hawley and Dr. Brace at Hawley Orthodontics help patients of all ages, but sometimes, the signs that it’s time for an appointment get overlooked.
Here’s when it might be time to make that call:
Teeth shifting or crowding
Even if everything looked fine before, changes can happen well into adulthood.
Trouble biting or chewing
An uneven bite can make eating uncomfortable or cause certain teeth to wear down faster.
Mouth breathing or persistent thumb-sucking in kid
Both habits can influence how the jaw and teeth develop.
Spacing or gaps that weren’t there before
Shifting teeth can create unexpected gaps that may need correction.
Jaw pain or clicking sounds
These could be signs of misalignment affecting the jaw joint.
Putting off an evaluation won’t make orthodontic concerns go away, but catching them early can make treatment easier and sometimes even shorter. If any of these sound familiar, the next step is a consultation to see what’s going on beneath the surface.
Now that we’ve covered when to book an appointment, let’s take a look at what happens during that first visit.
What to Expect During Your First Visit
Dr. Hawley, Dr. Brace, and their team make sure every patient has a smooth, stress-free experience from the moment they step through the door.
Your visit begins with a warm greeting, a comfy reception area (yes, there’s a refreshment bar!), and a quick tour to get familiar with the space. After that, it’s time to capture digital X-rays and photos—these give Dr. Hawley or Dr. Brace a clear picture of your teeth and jaw. A thorough exam follows, where they’ll assess your bite, spacing, and alignment before walking you through treatment options tailored to your needs.
No pressure, no rush—just the information you need to make the best decision for your smile. Whether you start treatment that day or take time to think it over, Hawley Orthodontics is here when you’re ready!
Smiles Don’t Wait—Why Should You?
Knowing when to book your first orthodontic visit can make all the difference, and there’s no better place to start than Hawley Orthodontics. Dr. Hawley and Dr. Brace are here to help kids, teens, and adults find the best path to a confident, healthy smile. Schedule your complimentary consultation in Papillion today—your future smile will thank you!