What Age Should My Child See an Orthodontist?
As a parent, it’s normal to wonder if your child’s teeth are developing the way they should.
You may be asking yourself: Is it too early for braces? Or should we be seeing an orthodontist already?
The good news is - you don’t need to wait until all the adult teeth are in to get answers.
Early orthodontic checkups can help spot potential concerns before they become bigger problems later.
The Recommended Age for a First Orthodontic Visit
Orthodontic associations recommend that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7.
At this age, your child still has a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth, which allows an orthodontist to identify early signs of jaw growth issues, bite problems, or crowding.
Even if braces aren’t needed right away, this early visit gives you peace of mind and a clear plan moving forward.
Many parents are surprised to learn that early orthodontic treatment doesn’t always mean braces, but it often means monitoring and timing treatment for the best results.
Why Early Orthodontic Evaluations Matter
Seeing an orthodontist early can help:
- Identify crowding or spacing issues
- Detect bite problems like overbites, underbites, or crossbites
- Guide jaw growth while the bones are still developing
- Reduce the need for more complex treatment later
Signs Your Child May Need an Orthodontic Checkup
Even before age 7, some signs may indicate it’s time to book an evaluation:
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing
- Thumb-sucking beyond age 5
- Teeth that appear crowded or misaligned
- Jaws that shift or make sounds
What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment?
Early orthodontic treatment (also called interceptive treatment) focuses on guiding proper jaw development and creating space for permanent teeth. This may involve:
- Expanders
- Space maintainers
- Limited braces or appliances
Not every child will need early treatment, but for those who do, it can shorten or simplify future orthodontic care.
What If My Child Doesn’t Need Treatment Yet?
That’s completely normal. In many cases, Dr. Aggarwal will simply recommend periodic checkups to monitor growth.
This ensures treatment starts at the ideal time.
Start your Orthodontic Journey with Bronte Family Orthodontics
Regular dental visits combined with timely orthodontic evaluations help set the foundation for a healthy, confident smile.
Working with a trusted children’s orthodontist like Bronte Family Orthodontics in Milton ensures your child’s oral development is carefully monitored every step of the way.
If you’re unsure whether it’s time for an orthodontic visit, starting with a dental checkup is a great first step.
Book a consultation with our friendly team today.