When Should a Child See an Orthodontist?

When should my child see an orthodontist? We’ll look at the facts.

First, you may ask, “Why start so early?” Orthodontists can help set the stage for a lifetime of better oral health and smiles. A check-up can determine if there are any red flags. Then, early treatment can intercept issues before they have a chance to worsen. 

As a result of early orthodontic care, kids avoid the need for more extensive treatment later in life. Thus, families can avoid more expenses down the road and keep kids healthy with beautiful smiles.

Notably, kids should see a pediatric dentist when their first tooth comes in, around their first birthday. However, orthodontic care isn’t generally recommended until later, until permanent teeth begin to emerge.

When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?

Generally, the magic number for when kids should see an orthodontist is by age seven. That’s the age recommended by the Amerian Association of Orthodontists because it’s when adult molars tend to come in. However, the exact age can vary, and if you suspect there are any issues with how teeth are aligned before then, ask your orthodontist.

What if your child is older than seven? In cases where kids haven’t seen an orthodontist by seven, it’s not too late to begin. With a free consultation, you can learn if treatment is recommended.

Many times, kids may not need orthodontic treatment. But, if Dr. Glaser finds signs of developing malocclusions (misaligned teeth and jaws), you’ve caught it at the best possible time.

With early treatment, kids may not need orthodontic care as adults.

Best of all, treatment improves oral health while it creates aesthetically beautiful smiles. As a result, kids can feel more confident. Over a lifetime, the benefits can be life-changing.

Screen for and Intercept Malocclusions

When orthodontists assess smiles, they can screen for signs of malocclusions and other health issues. 

Unfortunately, most people don’t have a perfect smile from birth. As many as nine in 10 people have teeth that are at least slightly misaligned or maloccluded. 

 Most often, people have a common malocclusion called an overbite. If minor, an overbite may not require treatment. However, advanced malocclusions require treatment to prevent oral health problems. If left untreated, malocclusions tend to worsen as people age.

Orthodontic treatment precisely corrects malocclusions such as:

  • Overbite
  • Underbite
  • Spacing problems
  • Crowding
  • Crossbite
  • Openbite
  • & more

By aligning the teeth and jaws, kids, teens, and adults can avoid problems like:

  • Tooth decay and wear
  • Tooth loss and resulting bone loss
  • Negative changes in appearance
  • Gum disease and related problems
  • Speech impediments
  • Difficulty chewing
  • Painful bite and jaw problems
  • Hesitance to show one’s smile
  • Worsening malocclusions

As you can see, there are numerous ways that orthodontic care can improve overall health, appearance and enhance one’s sense of well-being.

You Don’t Need a Referral from a Dentist

Many times, parents believe they may need a referral from a dentist to see an orthodontist. However, you don’t need a referral, and your first visit is complimentary. So, it’s a good idea to choose the best orthodontist in your area.

Dr. Barry J. Glaser is a leading orthodontist serving the Westchester County area for over two decades. His expertise with Invisalign allows him to provide Invisalign First, an efficient, convenient, and discreet treatment. We offer the latest cutting-edge technologies and personalized care in a friendly, comfortable, and fun environment.

Our award-winning team has helped generations of families and loves seeing each patient reach their full, smiling potential.

Please, schedule your first in-person visit with your child here. 

 For any questions, give us a call at 914.739.6400 anytime. 

We hope this has been helpful as you consider “When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?” 

Proudly providing orthodontic services to Northern Westchester and Putnam Counties. Including Cortlandt Manor, Peekskill, Yorktown Heights, Mahopac, Croton-On-Hudson, and Cold Spring.

See Dr. Glaser discuss “When Should Kids See An Orthodontist?” below: