Here at Knight Orthodontics, we care about your quality of life — that’s why our motto is breathe better, live better. Speaking of which, did you know that orthodontics aren’t just for teens? It’s true! We’ve asked Dr. Knight to get into the details of when to book your first orthodontic appointment, so read on to learn more!
When To Book Your First Orthodontic Appointment
Here at Knight Orthodontics, we care about your quality of life—that’s why our motto is breathe better, live better. Speaking of which, did you know that orthodontics aren’t just for teens? It’s true! Many people assume that braces or aligners are only necessary once all permanent teeth have come in, but early orthodontic care can play a vital role in setting up a lifetime of better oral health. We’ve asked Dr. Knight to get into the details of when to book your first orthodontic appointment, why early evaluations matter, and what signs to look for in younger children.
What Is the Right Age for a First Orthodontic Visit?
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) and Dr. Knight recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. This might seem early, especially since many children still have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth at this stage. However, this is actually the ideal time for an orthodontist to assess how a child’s mouth, jaw, and teeth are developing. Waiting until all permanent teeth have erupted can sometimes make orthodontic problems more difficult to treat, leading to longer and more complex treatments down the road.
At age seven, certain orthodontic issues become more apparent, even if they are not yet severe. An orthodontic exam at this stage allows us to monitor growth patterns and determine whether early intervention might be necessary. Some children may not need treatment right away, but periodic check-ins allow us to catch any problems before they become more complicated.
Why Early Orthodontic Evaluations Matter
There are several benefits to bringing your child in for an evaluation at a young age. One of the most important reasons is that early assessment can help prevent minor issues from becoming major ones. When orthodontic concerns are caught early, we have the opportunity to guide jaw growth, improve the alignment of emerging teeth, and create space for permanent teeth that have yet to erupt. Addressing these issues sooner rather than later can lead to shorter treatment times and, in some cases, may prevent the need for tooth extractions or surgery later in life.
An early evaluation also gives us the chance to address certain habits that could be negatively affecting dental development. Habits like thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting, or prolonged pacifier use can impact the way a child’s teeth and jaw develop. If these habits persist past a certain age, they can cause bite misalignment and may contribute to speech difficulties. By catching these habits early, we can offer simple, non-invasive solutions that prevent the need for extensive correction later.
Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment: What It Is and Why It Helps
Some children benefit from what is known as Phase 1 orthodontic treatment, also called interceptive orthodontics. This refers to early intervention strategies that are used while a child still has a mix of baby and permanent teeth. Phase 1 treatment is designed to correct developing issues and create a healthier environment for permanent teeth to come in properly.
Significant jaw misalignment, severe crowding, or crossbites are common reasons for recommending Phase 1 treatment. Children who show signs of an underdeveloped or narrow jaw may benefit from appliances that guide jaw growth and ensure there is enough space for incoming permanent teeth. By using expanders, limited braces, or space maintainers, orthodontists can help create a balanced, functional bite and reduce the risk of more complex problems later.
Studies have shown that early intervention can improve airway function and even reduce the risk of sleep-disordered breathing. At Knight Orthodontics, we believe in a comprehensive approach to care, ensuring that treatment does more than just straighten teeth—it also improves breathing and enhances overall wellness. Since airway issues and improper tongue posture can be related to poor jaw development, an orthodontic evaluation can help identify concerns that may contribute to sleep disturbances, mouth breathing, or chronic fatigue in children.
For more insight into early orthodontic care and how it can prevent costly treatments down the road, check out this AAO resource on early orthodontic care.
How to Tell If Your Child Needs an Early Orthodontic Appointment
While the age guideline of seven years old is a helpful starting point, some children show signs of orthodontic issues earlier. Parents should pay attention to common indicators that may signal the need for an orthodontic evaluation.
If your child has difficulty chewing, biting, or speaking, it may be due to bite misalignment. Overbites, underbites, and crossbites can make it challenging to bite into food properly, leading to uneven wear on teeth or jaw discomfort. Mouth breathing is another potential sign of an issue, as children who habitually breathe through their mouth may have narrow dental arches or underdeveloped jaw structures.
Early loss of baby teeth can also create space issues, causing permanent teeth to erupt incorrectly. If a child loses baby teeth earlier than expected, neighboring teeth may shift into the empty space, preventing proper alignment when adult teeth emerge. On the other hand, delayed loss of baby teeth may indicate an underlying problem that could require orthodontic intervention.
Crowding, excessive spacing, or protruding front teeth are other red flags that should be evaluated. Teeth that stick out significantly are at a higher risk for injury, especially in active children who participate in sports. Addressing these problems early can help guide teeth into better positions and reduce the likelihood of dental trauma.
What To Expect at Your Child’s First Orthodontic Visit
A first orthodontic appointment at Knight Orthodontics is all about evaluation and education. During the visit, we will perform a comprehensive assessment of your child’s teeth, jaw, and bite using digital imaging technology. This allows us to determine whether there are current or developing issues that may require intervention. If everything looks healthy and properly aligned, we may simply recommend monitoring your child’s growth with periodic check-ups.
If early treatment is needed, we will outline a personalized plan tailored to your child’s specific needs. We’ll discuss the best timing for treatment, what appliances (if any) may be beneficial, and how orthodontic care fits into their overall health and development. The goal of this first visit is to give parents peace of mind, whether that means reassurance that no treatment is necessary yet or a clear plan for addressing concerns.
Book Your Child’s First Orthodontic Appointment Today
Ensuring your child’s long-term oral health starts with early evaluation and intervention when necessary. By scheduling an orthodontic visit around age seven, you’re taking an important step toward a healthy, functional smile that will last a lifetime. Whether your child needs Phase 1 treatment or simply periodic check-ups to monitor growth, our team at Knight Orthodontics is here to guide you through the process.
If you’ve noticed signs of potential orthodontic issues, don’t wait to get them evaluated. Schedule your free consultation today and let Dr. Knight help set your child up for lifelong oral health and overall wellness.