The Magic Number is Seven
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic screening by age seven. This might seem young to many parents, but there’s a good reason for this timing. By age seven, your child’s first permanent molars have usually come in. These teeth appear between ages six and seven and give orthodontists important clues about how your child’s bite is developing.
At Brace Connection, we follow this recommendation because early visits help us spot potential problems before they become bigger issues. This doesn’t mean your seven-year-old will get braces right away. Instead, this first visit lets Dr. Babaeian check how your child’s teeth and jaw are growing.
Why Early Visits Matter
Starting orthodontic visits early has many benefits for your child. When problems are caught early, treatment is often simpler and shorter. Early diagnosis can help guide permanent teeth into better positions as they come in. It can also preserve space for permanent teeth that haven’t appeared yet.
Some children benefit from early interceptive treatment which can prevent more complex issues later by guiding jaw growth, making room for crowded teeth, reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth, and correcting harmful habits like thumb sucking or speech problems related to tooth positioning. Taking these preventive steps, like those offered at Brace Connection, can often help children avoid tooth extractions later and reduce the risk of impacted permanent teeth, ultimately saving time, money, and discomfort in the long run.
What Age Should a Child See an Orthodontist for Different Treatments?
Not every child who visits at age seven needs immediate treatment. Our orthodontist develops a personalized plan for each young patient. Some children join our orthodontic supervisory program, where we monitor their growth every six to eight months. This free program helps us determine the perfect time to start treatment if needed.
For children who need early intervention, treatment might begin between ages seven and ten. This first phase focuses on creating space and guiding growth. Most comprehensive orthodontic treatment, including traditional braces or Invisalign Teen, happens during adolescence when most permanent teeth have erupted. This typically occurs between ages eleven and thirteen.
At Brace Connection, we offer several treatment options for children and teens such as follows; Traditional metal braces, Ceramic braces, for a more subtle look Invisalign First for younger children Invisalign Teen for adolescents.
Signs Your Child Should See an Orthodontist
While age seven is the recommended time for a first visit, some signs might prompt an earlier appointment. Watch for these indicators:
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing
- Thumb sucking past age five
- Crowded or misplaced teeth
- Jaws that shift or make sounds
- Biting the cheek or roof of the mouth
- Teeth that don’t come together properly
Your family dentist might also recommend an orthodontic visit if they notice potential issues during regular checkups. Many dentists in the Downey area work closely with Brace Connection and refer patients when they spot early warning signs.
Making Orthodontic Care Comfortable for Kids
At Brace Connection, we understand that visiting a new doctor can be scary for children. Our warm and caring staff creates a friendly environment where kids feel comfortable. We use the latest technology, including iTero digital scanning, which means no messy impressions that might make children uncomfortable.
We also offer virtual orthodontic appointments through our Dental Monitoring app. This technology lets the doctor monitor your child’s treatment progress from home, reducing the number of office visits needed. Parents love this convenience, and kids enjoy using the cool technology.
Planning for Your Child’s Orthodontic Future
Starting orthodontic visits at the right age sets your child up for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Even if your child doesn’t need treatment right away, establishing a relationship with an orthodontist gives you peace of mind.
At Brace Connection, we make orthodontic care accessible for families in Downey and surrounding areas like Long Beach, Anaheim, and Glendale. We offer flexible financing options because we believe every child deserves a healthy, confident smile.
Take the First Step Today
Now that you know what age a child should see an orthodontist, it’s time to schedule that important first visit. If your child is approaching age seven, or if you’ve noticed any concerning signs, contact Brace Connection today. Dr. Babaeian and our experienced team are ready to guide your family through every step of the orthodontic journey.
Remember, early orthodontic visits are about prevention and planning, not just treatment. By starting at the right age, you’re giving your child the best chance for a beautiful, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. Schedule your child’s free smile exam at Brace Connection in Downey, CA, and discover how modern orthodontic care can benefit your family.