As a parent in Winston-Salem, Clemmons, or King, how do you know if your child needs orthodontic evaluation? The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic screening by age 7 — but there are also warning signs that parents can watch for at any age.
At BCR Orthodontics — serving Forsyth County for over 35 years — we offer free consultations for a reason: we want every family to know their options. This guide covers the seven most important signs to watch for, plus what happens at a first visit, and why starting early matters.
Sign #1: Crowded, Crooked, or Overlapping Teeth
If your child’s teeth appear crowded together, crooked, or overlapping, this is the most obvious sign that orthodontic evaluation is warranted. Crowding often worsens as adult teeth come in and can make proper brushing and flossing very difficult — leading to cavities and gum disease if untreated.
Sign #2: Early, Late, or Irregular Loss of Baby Teeth
Baby teeth that fall out too early (before age 5 for front teeth) or too late can indicate issues with adult tooth development and spacing. Irregular patterns — losing multiple baby teeth at once or losing them in unexpected order — are worth discussing with an orthodontist.
Sign #3: Difficulty Chewing, Biting, or Speaking
If your child consistently bites the inside of their cheeks, has trouble pronouncing certain sounds, or seems uncomfortable when chewing, a misaligned bite (malocclusion) may be the cause. Speech therapy and orthodontic treatment often go hand in hand.
Sign #4: Jaw Popping, Clicking, or Pain
Jaw sounds or discomfort — especially in the morning — can indicate a bite or alignment issue that benefits from early orthodontic evaluation. These symptoms can worsen over time if not addressed.
Sign #5: Mouth Breathing or Thumb Sucking Past Age 5
Extended thumb sucking or finger habits past age 5 can create open bites and push teeth outward. Chronic mouth breathing can affect jaw development. Both are worth discussing with your pediatric dentist and an orthodontist.
Sign #6: Teeth Don’t Come Together Normally
A visible overbite (upper teeth extend too far over lower teeth), underbite (lower teeth protrude in front of uppers), crossbite (upper and lower teeth don’t align on one or both sides), or open bite (teeth don’t touch when mouth is closed) are all conditions that orthodontic treatment can address — and early intervention typically yields better results.
Sign #7: Facial Asymmetry
Significant differences between the right and left sides of the face can sometimes indicate skeletal jaw issues that benefit from early orthodontic intervention, before the facial bones are fully developed.
🌿 Post-Appointment Celebration Spots in Winston-Salem & King
After a first orthodontic consultation, celebrating is absolutely in order! Here are our favorite local spots:
⭐ Mozelle’s Fresh Southern Bistro
📍 878 W Fourth St, Winston-Salem
Try: Tomato pie, shrimp & grits, seasonal soft desserts
Why it works: A perfect post-consultation dinner at this Historic West End gem. Mozelle’s warm Southern food and welcoming atmosphere make any occasion feel special. Soft, beautifully prepared proteins and sides mean braces wearers are always well accommodated.
⭐ Thai Sawatdee at Harris Teeter
📍 Inside Harris Teeter, Winston-Salem (aka Teeter Thai)
Try: Panang curry, pad see ew (soft wide noodles), jasmine rice dishes
Why it works: Winston-Salem’s beloved “Teeter Thai” makes fantastic Panang curry and noodle dishes that are naturally brace-friendly. Soft wide noodles in pad see ew are a perfect post-appointment meal. Flavorful, affordable, and genuinely wonderful.
⭐ The Mercantile Chophouse
📍 King, NC
Try: Fork-tender filet, slow-braised proteins, creamy mashed potatoes
Why it works: For King families wanting to celebrate a first consultation in style, The Mercantile Chophouse is the answer. Their filet mignon is impeccably tender — fork-cutting only, no hard biting. Creamy sides and thoughtfully prepared proteins make this the perfect special occasion dinner.
🎠 BCR in the Community: Fall in King & Stokes County
At BCR, we are proud to serve King, NC — a community with deep roots and incredible pride in its local traditions. Nothing captures that spirit more than the Stokes County Agricultural Fair.
🎉 Stokes County Agricultural Fair
🗓 Second week of September (Annual — 74+ years) 📍 436 S. Main Street, King, NC 27021
Hosted by the King American Legion for over 74 years, the Stokes County Fair is one of the most authentic community celebrations in our region. Midway rides and thrills for kids of all ages, agricultural exhibits, live entertainment, educational and commercial booths, and classic fair food. This is community pride in its purest form. BCR Orthodontics is honored to serve the King families who make events like this so special. Braces tip: enjoy funnel cake and soft kettle corn, but skip the candied apples and taffy!
🎯 Soak Creek Farm Pastures & Stables
📍 King, NC
What to do: For kids aged 8–16 in King who love horses, Soak Creek Farm offers horseback riding lessons and summer/fall camps. A wonderful way to connect with the natural beauty of the Stokes County foothills — especially in the gorgeous early fall months when the leaves begin to turn.
BCR Ortho tip: Horseback riding is completely safe for braces wearers! Pack soft snacks for the barn and bring water. Hat tip: the scenic views around King toward Pilot Mountain in October are absolutely stunning.
What to Expect at Your First BCR Consultation
Your first visit is completely free and low-pressure. We take diagnostic X-rays, do a full clinical exam, discuss any concerns you’ve noticed, and create a customized treatment plan. Most consultations take about 45 minutes to an hour. There are no obligations, and we never pressure families into treatment before they’re ready.
Concerned about your child’s bite or alignment? Schedule a FREE orthodontic consultation at BCR Orthodontics — Winston-Salem, Clemmons, or King. Visit smileland.com today.
