When Should Kids See an Orthodontist?
As a parent, you want the best for your child — including a healthy, confident smile. But when is the right time to start orthodontic treatment? At Davis & Goldberg Orthodontics, we often hear this question from parents in High Point, NC who want to ensure their child’s teeth and bite develop correctly.
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. While not all kids need treatment at this age, an early exam helps orthodontists identify potential problems before they become more serious.
In this blog, we’ll explore why early evaluations are important, the best age to start treatment, and what parents should know about orthodontic care for kids and teens.
Why Early Orthodontic Evaluations Matter
Many orthodontic issues are easier to correct when a child’s jaw is still growing. A first visit around age 7 allows us to check for potential problems such as:
- Crowding or spacing issues
- Overbite, underbite, or crossbite
- Misaligned jaw growth
- Early loss of baby teeth
- Thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting habits
Even if your child’s teeth look straight, there could be hidden alignment or bite problems. Identifying these issues early can prevent longer, more complex treatments later in life.
The Best Age to Start Orthodontic Treatment
The ideal time to begin orthodontic treatment depends on your child’s specific needs. Here’s a general guide to when different types of treatment may be recommended:
Ages 6-10: Early (Phase One) Treatment
Some children may need early intervention to guide jaw growth and create space for permanent teeth. Phase One treatment may include:
- Palatal expanders to widen the upper jaw
- Space maintainers to prevent overcrowding
- Partial braces or Invisalign First for minor corrections
- Early treatment helps prevent more serious issues and may reduce the need for extractions or surgery later.
Ages 11-14: Comprehensive (Phase Two) Treatment
Most kids get braces or Invisalign between ages 11 and 14, once their permanent teeth have come in. At this stage, orthodontic treatment focuses on:
- Correcting crooked or crowded teeth
- Fixing bite alignment (overbite, underbite, crossbite)
- Improving jaw function and facial symmetry
- Traditional metal braces, clear braces, or Invisalign for teens are common options at this stage.
Ages 15 & Up: Teen & Adult Treatment
For teens and adults who didn’t receive early orthodontic care, treatment is still highly effective. While the jaw is fully developed, orthodontic solutions like Invisalign or braces can still straighten teeth and improve bite function.
Signs Your Child May Need Braces or Invisalign
While every child is different, here are some signs that may indicate your child needs orthodontic care:
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Crowded, crooked, or overlapping teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing or speech difficulties
- Thumb-sucking beyond age 5
- Jaws that shift, pop, or make sounds
If you notice any of these issues, scheduling an orthodontic consultation can help determine if treatment is needed.
What If My Child Isn’t Ready for Braces?
If we find that your child doesn’t need treatment right away, we may recommend observation visits to monitor their dental development. These periodic checkups allow us to track your child’s growth and begin treatment at the right time.
If you’re wondering when your child should start orthodontic treatment in High Point, NC, Davis & Goldberg Orthodontics is here to help! Our experienced team provides expert, kid-friendly care to ensure healthy, beautiful smiles for life.
A straight, healthy smile starts with early care — request your child’s free consultation today!
