As a parent, you may wonder when the right time is for your child to start orthodontic treatment. The timing can be crucial for achieving the best results, and understanding the guidelines can help ensure your child’s smile is healthy and beautiful for years to come.
The Recommendation from Experts
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that every child have their first orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. This early consultation allows an orthodontist to assess your child’s teeth, jaw, and overall oral development. While many children won’t need treatment at this age, this initial checkup can help identify any potential issues early on and determine if intervention is needed.
Early Intervention vs. Waiting
In some cases, early intervention (also known as Phase 1 treatment) may be recommended. This typically involves addressing specific issues, such as:
-
Correcting severe crowding.
-
Guiding the jaw’s growth to improve alignment.
-
Resolving habits like thumb-sucking that can affect dental development.
If no immediate issues are detected, your orthodontist will likely recommend waiting until more permanent teeth have erupted to start treatment. This often occurs between the ages of 11 and 14, once most or all adult teeth are in place.
Signs Your Child May Need Orthodontic Treatment
While an early consultation is the best way to assess your child’s needs, there are some signs you can look out for, including:
-
Difficulty biting or chewing.
-
Mouth breathing.
-
Crowded or misplaced teeth.
-
Thumb-sucking or other oral habits persisting past early childhood.
-
Jaws that shift, make sounds, or don’t meet properly.
The Benefits of Proper Timing
Starting orthodontic treatment at the right time can:
-
Reduce the need for more invasive procedures later.
-
Shorten overall treatment time.
-
Improve the long-term health of your child’s teeth and jaw.
Schedule Your Child’s Consultation Today
If your child hasn’t had an orthodontic evaluation by age 7, now is the perfect time to schedule one. Even if no treatment is needed right away, you’ll gain peace of mind knowing their development is on track. If treatment is required later, your orthodontist can create a personalized plan to ensure your child’s smile grows healthy and strong.
At Happier Smiles Orthodontics in Escondido, we’re committed to helping children achieve their best smiles.
Contact us today to schedule your child’s consultation and take the first step toward a lifetime of healthy, happy smiles!
