When To See an Orthodontist: The Best Age To Visit
Many parents wonder when to see an orthodontist for their child and often assume that treatment doesn’t begin until the teenage years. But did you know the best time for a first orthodontic visit is much earlier? According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should have their first check-up with an orthodontist by age seven.
Why age seven? By this age, most children have a mix of baby and permanent teeth. This transitional stage allows orthodontists to detect potential problems early, even before all adult teeth have erupted. Catching issues at this stage doesn’t always mean treatment starts immediately, but it allows the orthodontist to monitor growth and plan if needed.
Here are some common reasons a visit to the orthodontist at age seven might be necessary:
1. Crowding and Spacing Issues
As permanent teeth emerge, some children may show signs of crowding where there isn’t enough space in the mouth for teeth to develop straight. Others may experience excessive spacing, where gaps form between teeth. Both conditions can affect bite alignment and overall oral health, and early evaluation can help guide future tooth movement or identify if intervention is needed.
2. Tooth Loss and Eruption Patterns
Monitoring how and when baby teeth fall out and how adult teeth come in can reveal early concerns. If a child loses teeth too early or too late, or if the eruption pattern seems abnormal, an orthodontist can step in to assess the situation. Sometimes, early treatment can help guide the growth of incoming teeth and prevent complications.
3. Overbite
An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth significantly overlap the lower front teeth. While some overbite is normal, a deep or excessive overbite can lead to issues with chewing, speech, and even wear on the teeth. Detecting this early allows for planning interceptive treatment if necessary.
4. Underbite
An underbite is when the lower front teeth protrude past the upper front teeth. This can result from skeletal or dental issues and may impact facial appearance, jaw function, and tooth wear. Early evaluation can be especially helpful in managing underbites, potentially reducing the need for more complex treatments in the future.
Schedule Your Child’s Orthodontic Check-Up Today
At Risinger Orthodontics, we specialize in early dental assessments and personalized treatment plans tailored to your child’s unique needs. Schedule your consultation today, and let us help your child smile with confidence for years to come.