As a parent, ensuring your child’s healthy development is always a priority, and that includes their teeth and jaws. Many parents wonder: When is the right time for my child to see an orthodontist? The answer might surprise you—it’s often earlier than you think.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7, even if they still have baby teeth. But why so early? In this article, we’ll explain the importance of early evaluations, what to expect during your child’s first visit, and how proactive care can prevent bigger issues later on.
Why Early Orthodontic Evaluations Matter
Many people assume orthodontics is only for teenagers, but orthodontic problems can develop long before all the permanent teeth have grown in. Seeing an orthodontist early helps identify issues such as:
- Crowding of teeth
- Crossbites or underbites
- Protruding teeth
- Early loss of baby teeth
- Jaw growth imbalances
When these problems are caught early, they’re easier to correct—and sometimes they can even be prevented from becoming more severe. For example, guiding jaw growth with early intervention can create enough space for permanent teeth, reducing or eliminating the need for extractions later.
Learn more about our kids' orthodontic treatments designed to help your child’s smile develop properly from the start.
Signs Your Child May Need an Orthodontic Evaluation
While age 7 is a good benchmark, you should consider an orthodontic consultation sooner if you notice any of these signs:
- Thumb-sucking or pacifier use beyond age 4
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting into food
- Mouth breathing or snoring
- Teeth that appear crowded or spaced too far apart
- Clicking jaws or shifting when opening and closing the mouth
Even if these issues seem minor, an orthodontist can assess whether they are temporary or may require treatment.
What Happens During the First Orthodontic Visit?
Your child’s first visit is not about getting braces right away. Instead, it’s a comprehensive evaluation to understand their unique dental and jaw development. At East Tennessee Orthodontics, we use advanced diagnostic tools, including:
- Digital X-rays to evaluate tooth positioning and jaw growth
- 3D digital impressions for accurate models of your child’s mouth
- A clinical examination to check bite function and alignment
After this assessment, we create a personalized recommendation. For many children, treatment isn’t needed right away. Instead, we may recommend periodic monitoring—checking your child’s growth every 6–12 months until the ideal time for treatment.
The Two Phases of Orthodontic Treatment for Kids
Early evaluations help determine if your child would benefit from two-phase orthodontic treatment, which often provides the best long-term results.
Phase 1: Early Intervention
Phase 1 treatment usually begins between ages 7 and 10, focusing on guiding jaw growth and addressing serious bite problems. This can involve appliances such as:
- Expanders to widen the upper jaw
- Partial braces for select teeth
- Space maintainers to hold gaps open for permanent teeth
The goal is to create a healthy environment for permanent teeth to erupt properly.
Phase 2: Comprehensive Treatment
Once most permanent teeth have erupted (usually ages 11–13), comprehensive treatment begins—often with dental braces or clear aligners. Because Phase 1 has already corrected foundational issues, Phase 2 treatment is typically shorter and more effective.
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Visits
- Prevents More Serious Problems
Early detection can reduce the need for complex treatments like jaw surgery or tooth extractions later in life. - Improves Oral Function
Addressing bite issues early improves chewing, speech, and breathing patterns. - Boosts Confidence
Helping your child’s smile develop properly can enhance their self-esteem during formative years. - Saves Time and Money
Early intervention often leads to shorter and less expensive treatment as a teenager.
Why Choose a Specialist for Your Child’s Care?
Orthodontists receive additional years of training beyond dental school to specialize in correcting tooth and jaw alignment. At East Tennessee Orthodontics, our expertise allows us to:
- Accurately diagnose subtle issues dentists may miss
- Offer advanced treatment options like Invisalign for kids and self-ligating braces
- Customize plans that grow with your child’s needs
Learn more about our orthodontic services and why families across East Tennessee trust us with their children’s smiles.
How to Prepare Your Child for Their First Visit
Making your child feel comfortable is key to a successful first experience. Here are a few tips:
- Explain that the orthodontist is a “special dentist” who helps smiles grow healthy and strong.
- Avoid using words like “hurt” or “pain.” Instead, say the doctor will “check their teeth.”
- Read children’s books or watch videos about visiting an orthodontist.
- Schedule the appointment earlier in the day when your child is well-rested.
Our team takes pride in creating a welcoming environment so kids feel relaxed and excited about their journey to a great smile.
FAQs: When Should Your Child First Visit an Orthodontist?
1. Does every child need early orthodontic treatment?
No. Many children simply need periodic monitoring until their permanent teeth come in.
2. What happens if we wait until my child is a teenager?
Some problems can still be treated effectively in the teen years, but others—like jaw growth issues—are best addressed earlier.
3. Are braces necessary during Phase 1 treatment?
Not always. Phase 1 often involves simple appliances rather than full braces.
4. How much does an early orthodontic evaluation cost?
Many practices, including ours, offer complimentary initial consultations.
5. Can my dentist just tell me when my child needs braces?
General dentists can identify obvious issues, but orthodontists are specialists in jaw growth and alignment.
6. What is the difference between Phase 1 and Phase 2?
Phase 1 lays the foundation for proper growth, while Phase 2 focuses on perfecting alignment with braces or aligners.
7. Can my child get Invisalign instead of braces?
Yes, some children qualify for Invisalign First, a version of clear aligners designed for growing mouths.
8. Will early treatment shorten future treatment time?
Often, yes. Addressing foundational issues early can make Phase 2 shorter and more effective.
9. How do I know if my child needs jaw expansion?
An orthodontist can determine this during their evaluation using X-rays and digital impressions.
10. How do I schedule an appointment?
You can request your child’s first visit through our contact page.
Start Your Child’s Orthodontic Journey Today
Your child’s smile is one of their greatest assets, and starting early ensures it develops beautifully and healthily. Whether it’s a simple check-up or the first step toward treatment, an early visit sets the foundation for lifelong oral health.
Ready to schedule your child’s first orthodontic evaluation? Explore our kids’ orthodontic treatments and book a consultation today.