As parents, you want the best for your child—including a healthy, confident smile. One of the most common questions parents ask is, “When should my child see an orthodontist?” According to our orthodontist in Greenville and Grand Rapids, MI, the right timing can significantly impact your child’s dental development, making early evaluation an important part of lifelong oral health.
The American Association of Orthodontists’ Recommendation
The recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, your child will have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth, which allows our orthodontist to spot potential concerns before they become more serious.
Issues such as crowding, overbites, underbites, and jaw alignment problems often begin to develop early and may not be obvious to parents or even general dentists.
Why Age 7?
By age 7, the front teeth and molars have usually erupted, making it easier to evaluate the relationship between teeth and jaw growth. Our orthodontist can determine if your child’s bite is developing normally or if early intervention is needed. While not all children will require treatment at this age, an early evaluation creates a foundation for future monitoring and, if needed, more timely and less invasive treatment.
Early Intervention vs. Waiting
Early orthodontic treatment (also known as Phase I) may be recommended to correct significant problems while your child is still growing. This could involve using appliances to guide jaw growth, correct harmful habits like thumb sucking, or make space for permanent teeth.
The goal is to prevent more severe issues that could require surgery or tooth extractions in the teen years. In contrast, if no early issues are found, our orthodontist may recommend a “watch and wait” approach, checking in periodically until the ideal time for braces or aligners during adolescence.
Common Signs That Your Child Should See an Orthodontist Sooner
Even if your child hasn’t turned 7 yet, there are signs that may indicate an earlier visit is necessary:
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Speech issues
- Crowded or protruding teeth
- Clicking or shifting of the jaw
Parents should also pay attention to whether their child complains about jaw pain or if their smile appears misaligned.
A Long-Term Investment in Your Child’s Smile
Orthodontic evaluations are a proactive step toward a lifetime of healthy smiles. Whether your child needs treatment now or just monitoring as they grow, getting a professional opinion early can save time, money, and discomfort later. Many orthodontic problems are easier to correct when identified and treated early—before the jaw has stopped growing or permanent teeth are fully in place.