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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. Lesley Williams is a Certified Specialist in Orthodontics. She grew up in Victoria, BC with her parents and two sisters.
After being awarded her Doctor of Medical Dentistry (DMD) degree in 1989, Dr. Williams then spent six years as a dentist in general practice before deciding that she wanted to further her education by undertaking three extra years of highly specialized training in orthodontics. With her Masters in Science (Orthodontics) degree under her belt, she went on to sit the Orthodontic Specialty Fellowship exams through the Royal College of Dentists of Canada. To date, her status as an active leader in the orthodontic profession means that she holds the following qualifications and positions:
- Certified Specialist in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics
- Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada
- Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics
- Examiner for the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and the American Board of Orthodontics.
- Former president of the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists (representing 2900 orthodontists from the 4 western Canadian provinces and 8 western American states).
- Active member of the Edward H. Angle Society of Orthodontists.