What age should my child see an orthodontist?
As a parent, you want to give your child the best start in life—including a healthy, confident smile. But when it comes to orthodontic care, many parents wonder: When is the right time for my child to see an orthodontist?
🦷 The Magic Number: Age 7
According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), children should have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Age 7 may seem early, especially since your child still has baby teeth, but early intervention may help you avoid more costly or more invasive treatments down the road.
🔍 Why Early Evaluation Matters
Early intervention is aimed to guide jaw development or create space for incoming teeth. An early visit doesn’t necessarily mean your child will need braces right away. In fact, most children won’t begin treatment until a few years later. However, early evaluations allow orthodontists to identify potential problems, monitor development, and plan for future treatment.
🚩 Signs Your Child Might Need an Orthodontic Checkup Sooner
While age 7 is the general guideline, some children may benefit from an earlier evaluation. Look out for these signs:
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing or snoring
- Jaws shifting or clicking
- Facial Imbalance, protruding or crowded teeth
- Thumb sucking beyond age 5
- Speech difficulties
If you notice any of these, it’s a good idea to schedule a consultation sooner rather than later.
🧑⚕️ No Referral Needed
You don’t need a referral from your dentist to see an orthodontist. Orthodontists are specialists in facial development and bite alignment, and they’re trained to detect and manage issues that may not be obvious during a routine dental checkup.
Seeing an orthodontist by age 7 gives your child the best chance at a healthy, functional, and beautiful smile. It’s a proactive step that can save time, money, and discomfort down the road.
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