At what age should my child see an orthodontist?

05 Jun

At what age should my child see an orthodontist?

Orthodontic care isn’t just about straightening teeth for a beautiful smile—it also plays a crucial role in your child’s oral health and development. But when is the right time to schedule that first visit with an orthodontist?

The Recommended Age

The American Association of Orthodontists suggests that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this stage, most kids have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth, allowing the orthodontist to identify potential issues early.

Why So Early?

Early evaluations help spot problems with:

Jaw growth and development
Bite alignment (such as overbite, underbite, or crossbite)
Tooth eruption patterns and spacing issues
Habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting that can affect teeth positioning

Benefits of Early Orthodontic Assessment

Prevention: Early detection allows for interceptive treatments that can guide jaw growth and reduce the severity of problems later.
Shorter treatment: Sometimes early intervention can shorten or eliminate the need for more extensive treatment during the teenage years.
Better outcomes: Addressing issues while the jaw and teeth are still developing leads to more effective, lasting results.

What Happens During the First Visit?

The orthodontist will perform a thorough examination, which may include X-rays or impressions, to evaluate your child’s teeth and jaw. They’ll discuss whether treatment is needed now or if monitoring over time is the best approach.

In summary:
Children should see an orthodontist by age 7 to catch and address potential orthodontic issues early. Early evaluation can prevent more serious problems and make future treatment simpler and more effective.

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