When Should My Child See an Orthodontist
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children first visit an orthodontist by the age of 7.
Age 7 is the recommended age because it’s a crucial time in oral development – baby teeth have started exfoliating and adult teeth are beginning to erupt. Children will typically have their first adult molars and adult incisors by this time.
At the first visit, an orthodontist can assess if your child has all of their permanent teeth, if the jaws are growing at the same rate, and if there will be enough space for all of the permanent teeth. We can also check for habits that can be detrimental to oral health and development, including thumb sucking and tongue thrusting. Catching issues early is the key to ensuring long-term dental health and can result in shorter and less expensive treatments.
Remember, seeing an orthodontist does not mean your child will need braces or other treatment, but a proactive visit could save your child complex future treatment. Early screening and treatments are not just for aesthetics, but also for function.
We know that a visit to the orthodontist can be overwhelming to younger children, so we’ve made our office, and even orthodontics, fun. We offer colored braces, bright toothbrush stations, and friendly staff – we even have a theatre! For parents, we have easy payment plans to make treatment affordable.
With proper treatment and care, your child’s smile will last a lifetime. Call us today to book your child’s complimentary first appointment.
Dr. Williams, an orthodontist in Surrey, and the South Surrey Smiles team are dedicated to providing the South Surrey, White Rock, and surrounding communities with consistently exceptional orthodontic care, creating a fun, relaxed practice where you can feel truly at home.
