What is the right age to have the first orthodontic evaluation?

Answer: Before the age of 7!

Although most people think of teenagers when thinking about orthodontic treatment, there are very good reasons to have an evaluation with an orthodontic specialist much earlier than that age. In our opinion, in line with the recommendation of the American Association of Orthodontists, children should have an evaluation with an orthodontic specialist before they turn 7 years old.

Why?

• Orthodontic specialists can detect subtle problems in jaw growth and in primary (baby) teeth;
• Even if the teeth appear straight, there may be issues that require treatment;
• The evaluation can have several outcomes:
  1. Everything is developing correctly – no intervention needed;
  2. Problem identified with a recommendation to monitor the child’s growth and development;
  3. Problem that benefits from immediate intervention.
• In some cases, treatment before adolescence can prevent a problem from worsening, potentially shortening or simplifying later treatments;
• Interceptive treatments may allow the orthodontist to:
  • Guide jaw growth;
  • Reduce the chance of trauma to overly protruding front teeth;
  • Correct potentially harmful habits;
  • Improve aesthetics;
  • Guide permanent teeth into more favorable positions;
  • Improve the position of the lips and how they meet.

By taking younger children for an evaluation with an orthodontic specialist, you are giving them the best opportunity to achieve a beautiful