Many parents assume that orthodontic treatment does not start until most or all baby teeth have fallen out, but this is a common misconception. Waiting for every baby tooth to disappear is not always the best approach.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial orthodontic check-up no later than seven years of age. At this stage, the development of the teeth and jaws can be evaluated, and areas of concern can be identified before they become more complex.
Let’s talk about it.
Why Baby Teeth Are Important for Orthodontic Development
Baby teeth do much more than help children chew and smile. They also help maintain space for permanent teeth as they develop and erupt. When lost too early, neighboring teeth can shift into the open space, making it harder for permanent teeth to come in properly.
With an early orthodontic evaluation while baby teeth are still present, we can monitor how the permanent teeth are developing and determine whether additional guidance may be needed.
What Does Early Orthodontics Look For?
Seeing the orthodontist early does not automatically mean your child is going to get braces. Often, we simply monitor growth and tooth development until the right time for treatment so that it is most effective. What it does do, however, is help us identify areas of concern, such as crowding, bite problems or misalignments, jaw development issues, or teeth that may not have enough room to erupt.
Then, depending on what we find, we may recommend monitoring or suggest interceptive orthodontic treatment. If necessary, the latter can begin for some children between the ages of seven and 11. It can help to create space for permanent teeth, guide jaw development, or address bite concerns while the mouth and jaws are still growing.
When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?
If your child is around age seven, an orthodontic evaluation is a good idea. Remember, it is not about how straight the teeth are, but rather the relationship between the teeth and jaws. And the need for treatment may not be obvious or even visible. Starting early gives us ample time to monitor progress and take action when needed.
Does your child have severe crowding? Difficulty biting or chewing? If you notice anything unusual or have jaw or bite concerns, we encourage you to reach out regardless of your child's age.
Our orthodontists take a proactive approach to treatment. So when you are ready, schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age should my child first see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic checkup no later than age seven. Earlier if there are areas of concern.
Can my child see an orthodontist if they still have baby teeth?
Absolutely. In fact, having a mixture of baby and permanent teeth gives us valuable information about how your child’s smile is developing.
Does my child need braces if we see an orthodontist early?
Not necessarily. Some children only need monitoring, while others may benefit from early orthodontic treatment. We determine the appropriate approach based on each child’s individual development.
What happens during an early orthodontic evaluation?
We examine your child’s teeth, bite, and jaw development and may use X-rays or other diagnostic images when appropriate. We will then discuss our findings and whether treatment or continued monitoring is recommended.
What if my child is already older than 7?
It is not too late. Children can still benefit from an orthodontic evaluation after age seven. The important thing is to have their dental and jaw development assessed so we can determine the right timing for their individual needs.
At Suffolk Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, we are here to guide your child’s smile through every stage of development. If you’re wondering whether your child is ready for an orthodontic evaluation, contact us today to schedule a consultation at one of our convenient Suffolk County locations.