When is the "Right Time"

Even though most people think of pre-teens and teens when they think of orthodontics, there are good reasons your child should get an orthodontic evaluation much sooner. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a check-up with an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7.





Why your child should get an orthodontic check-up no later than age 7:

• Orthodontists can spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth while some baby teeth are still present.


• While your child's teeth may appear to be straight, there could be a problem that only a orthodontist can detect.


• The check-up may reveal that your child's bite is fine. Or, the orthodontist may identify a developing problem but recommend monitoring the child's growth and development, and then, if indicated, begin treatment at the appropriate time for the child. In other cases, the orthodontist might find a problem that can benefit from early treatment.


• Early treatment may prevent more serious problems from developing and may make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated.


• In some cases, the orthodontist will be able to achieve results that may not be possible once the face and jaws have finished growing.