When is the Right Time for My Child to See an Orthodontist?
As a parent, you want the best for your child’s health, happiness, and confidence—and a healthy, well-aligned smile is a key part of that. Many parents wonder when the right time is for their child to first see an orthodontist. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7, but the right timing can vary based on each child’s unique needs.
At LA Smile Co. Orthodontics in Glendale, CA, Dr. Henna Kim offers expert guidance on early evaluations and the benefits of interceptive orthodontics. Here’s what you need to know about why early orthodontic visits are so important and how they can set your child up for a healthy, beautiful smile for life.
Why Age 7?
By age 7, most children have a mix of primary (baby) and permanent teeth, and their jaws are still developing. This is the ideal time for an orthodontic evaluation because issues that may impact their oral health and smile alignment later in life can often be spotted early. During this initial visit, Dr. Kim will examine the teeth, jaws, and bite alignment to identify any potential concerns.
Some common early orthodontic issues include:
- Crowded teeth or teeth that are spaced too far apart
- Overbites, underbites, or crossbites
- Open bites or other jaw misalignments
- Problems with thumb-sucking or other habits that may impact dental development
While many children won’t require immediate treatment, this early evaluation helps Dr. Kim identify potential problems before they become more complex.
Signs Your Child May Need an Early Orthodontic Evaluation
While age 7 is the recommended time for an initial evaluation, some children may benefit from seeing an orthodontist earlier. Signs that your child might need an early assessment include:
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Thumb sucking or prolonged pacifier use
- Crowded or misaligned teeth
- Jaw shifting or asymmetry
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Breathing through the mouth instead of the nose
If you’re wondering about the signs my child needs braces, these early indicators can help you determine if it’s time to visit an orthodontist.
Benefits of Interceptive Orthodontics
Interceptive orthodontics, also known as Phase 1 orthodontic treatment, refers to early treatment that addresses specific orthodontic issues in children. The goal is to guide jaw growth, create space for incoming permanent teeth, and help prevent the need for more invasive procedures later on. Here are some of the benefits of interceptive orthodontics:
- Simplifies Future Treatment: Early treatment can make future orthodontic work easier and more efficient, often reducing the need for extractions or more complex treatments.
- Encourages Proper Jaw Growth: By guiding the development of the jaw, early intervention can prevent or reduce jaw-related issues, promoting a more balanced facial structure.
- Improves Confidence: Children with prominent orthodontic issues, like crooked or overcrowded teeth, may feel self-conscious. Addressing these issues early can improve self-esteem and social confidence.
- Reduces Dental Trauma Risks: Protruding teeth are more susceptible to injury, especially in active children. Early treatment helps protect these teeth and minimize injury risk.
- Better Speech Development: In some cases, misaligned teeth or jaws can affect speech development. Interceptive orthodontics can support better speech clarity and development.
What to Expect During an Early Orthodontic Evaluation
When you bring your child to LA Smile Co. Orthodontics, Dr. Kim will begin with a thorough examination of their teeth, jaw, and facial structure. She may take X-rays to get a better view of how the adult teeth are developing below the gumline. Dr. Kim will assess your child’s bite, check for spacing and alignment issues, and determine if any habits like thumb-sucking are affecting their dental health.
If your child does need treatment, Dr. Kim will work with you to create a personalized plan. This could include a Phase 1 orthodontic treatment with devices like expanders or partial braces, or it may mean simply monitoring growth and scheduling future check-ups.
Not Every Child Needs Early Orthodontics—But Every Child Can Benefit from an Early Check-Up
While some children will benefit from early orthodontic treatment, many don’t need immediate care. However, early orthodontic evaluations with Dr. Kim provide peace of mind, ensure timely intervention if necessary, and help you and your child get comfortable with the orthodontic process.
At LA Smile Co. Orthodontics, Dr. Henna Kim and her team are passionate about creating healthy, beautiful smiles that last a lifetime. If you’re in the Glendale, CA area and are looking for a kids orthodontist, we encourage you to schedule a consultation. Whether your child is 7 years old or a little older, our office is here to help guide you and answer all your questions.
A proactive approach to child orthodontic care can make all the difference—start your child’s journey to a bright, confident smile today!
