At What Age Does Your Child Need to See an Orthodontist?

At what age should your child see an orthodontist? This is a crucial question that most parents ask. According to the American Association of orthodontists, the short answer is that parents should schedule an evaluation as soon as they notice any signs of orthodontic problems. Other than that, the first consultation should be scheduled no later than age seven. Let’s look at additional details you may need to know when it comes to what age your child needs to be to see an orthodontist.

Is it Necessary for My Child to See An Orthodontist?

As mentioned, it’s ideal for children to have had their first orthodontic visit by age seven. This might seem too early for some parents, but there are a few good reasons behind this recommendation. For starters, orthodontic problems are best prevented when caught early. By the age of seven, most children have lost their baby teeth and are waiting for their adult teeth. During this stage, orthodontists have the perfect opportunity to determine if the baby teeth are paving the way for adult teeth as expected. If there are issues, the orthodontist will suggest corrective action, thus helping eliminate bigger and more costly potential problems.

Orthodontic Problems that Parents Need to Watch Out For

There are many orthodontic problems that can prevent your child’s teeth from growing properly. In that case, these issues need to be diagnosed early so your child can receive the treatment they need. Common orthodontic problems that affect children include abnormal eruptions, crowding, crossbites, underbites, overbites, and too much space between teeth. Under fortunate circumstances, your child may not require treatment. That said, the only way to know this for certain is after the orthodontist has performed an inspection.

What Happens at the First Visit?

During your child’s first orthodontic visit, the orthodontist will inspect your child’s mouth. As mentioned, the goal is to ensure that the adult teeth are growing properly. It’s also normal for the orthodontist to take a 3-D scan which helps them see if any adult teeth are missing or if there are any potential issues brewing behind the scenes. From there, the orthodontist will be able to figure out a personalized treatment plan that can quickly correct identified issues.

The bottom line is that it’s important for children to visit an orthodontist at or around age seven. Contact Jacaranda Smiles today if you’re ready to bring your child in for a consultation.