When Should Your Child First See an Orthodontist? Here’s What Parents Need to Know
As a parent, you’re always looking out for your child’s health — and that includes their teeth. But when it comes to braces or jaw problems, many parents ask:
“When should my child first see an orthodontist?”
The Simple Answer: Age 7
Surprised? Many people think orthodontists only come into the picture when it’s time for braces — usually in the teen years. But the American Association of Orthodontists recommends a child’s first visit at age 7.
That doesn’t mean your 7-year-old will walk out of the office with braces. Not at all! But it’s a good age for a checkup to spot any early warning signs of future problems.
Why Age 7?
At around age 7:
- Your child has a mix of baby and permanent teeth.
- Their jaw and bite are starting to take shape.
- Orthodontists can see how things are developing — and fix small issues before they become big ones.
Think of it like checking in early. If everything looks good, the orthodontist might say, “Come back in a year or two.” But if there’s something going on — like crowding, a crossbite, or a big overbite — it’s easier to guide things in the right direction while your child is still growing.
Early Visits Can Help With:
- Crowded or crooked teeth
- Jaw growth problems (like underbites or overbites)
- Thumb-sucking habits that might affect teeth
- Speech issues caused by how teeth and jaws line up
- Making space for adult teeth that haven’t come in yet
What Happens During the Visit?
It’s usually pretty quick and painless! The orthodontist will:
- Look at your child’s teeth and bite
- Maybe take a few X-rays
- Talk to you about what’s normal, what’s not, and what (if anything) to do next
Most kids don’t need treatment right away. But it’s great peace of mind to know everything is on track — or to get ahead of any problems early on.
In a Nutshell:
🦷 Best age for first orthodontic checkup: Around 7 years old
🦷 Why? To catch problems early while your child is still growing
🦷 Will they need braces right away? Probably not — but the checkup is key
Final Thought
Catching orthodontic issues early can save time, money, and stress down the road. Even if nothing needs to be done, you’ll walk out knowing your child’s smile is in good hands.
If your child is around 7 and hasn’t seen an orthodontist yet, consider making that first appointment. It’s one more way to help them grow up healthy and confident — one smile at a time.
