Treatment for Children

When Should My Child See the Orthodontist?

A good time for your child’s first orthodontic check-up is around age 7. By then several important permanent teeth have come in, allowing the doctor to provide a preliminary evaluation of the bite and future crowding. If you suspect an orthodontic problem is present, ask your dentist for advice, or simply call our office to arrange for an evaluation. Initial evaluations are done at no cost to all new patients.

While most children do not need orthodontic treatment at this age, it may be needed for some who have crossbites, finger- or thumb-sucking habits, or problems with eruption of permanent teeth. Correcting gaps or crowded front teeth is usually not required at this age, unless these problems pose speech or self-esteem problems for the patient. The general rule of thumb for initial evaluations is "if in doubt, check it out." It is better to come in too early than too late.