Most parents may not consider orthodontic care until their child has all their permanent teeth, typically around the age of 12 or 13. However, dental experts now recommend early orthodontic evaluations—ideally by age seven—to identify potential problems before they become more complex. This proactive approach can make treatment simpler, more effective, and potentially less expensive while giving your child the best chance for a healthy, confident smile.
At ABC Children’s Dentistry in Voorhees, NJ, Dr. Jeffrey Singer and our team provide comprehensive early orthodontic evaluations in our kid-friendly office. We understand children’s developing mouths and know how to spot potential issues that might benefit from early intervention, helping set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Why Age Seven Is the Magic Number
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children receive their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. This timing is strategic because, by this age, most children have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth, providing orthodontists with enough information to identify existing or developing problems.
At seven years old, your child’s first molars have typically erupted, establishing the back bite. During this time, an orthodontist can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. They can also assess whether there’s adequate space for emerging permanent teeth and identify any potential crowding issues.
Early evaluation doesn’t necessarily mean early treatment. In many cases, your orthodontist might simply monitor your child’s growth and development, reserving treatment for when it becomes necessary. However, in situations where early intervention could prevent more serious problems, treatment might begin sooner.
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Evaluation
Having your child evaluated early offers numerous advantages beyond just straightening teeth. These benefits extend to their overall oral health, facial development, and even their confidence.
Early orthodontic evaluations can:
- Guide jaw growth to create adequate space for permanent teeth
- Reduce the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
- Correct harmful oral habits like thumb-sucking before they cause dental problems
- Improve appearance and boost self-esteem during critical developmental years
- Preserve or create space for unerupted teeth
- Reduce the likelihood of impacted permanent teeth
- Potentially decrease treatment time with braces later
- Lower the risk of tooth extractions in the future
- Address speech problems related to dental positioning
When orthodontic issues are caught early, treatment can be timed with your child’s growth patterns, potentially making correction easier and more effective. This approach, called interceptive orthodontics, can help guide proper dental development rather than correcting problems after they’ve fully developed.
Signs Your Child Might Need an Early Evaluation
While age seven is recommended for all children, certain signs might indicate your child could benefit from an evaluation even sooner. Being aware of these warning signs helps you seek appropriate care at the right time.
Watch for these indicators:
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing
- Thumb-sucking past age 5
- Speech difficulties
- Protruding front teeth
- Teeth that don’t meet properly or at all
- Jaw shifting when opening or closing the mouth
- Crowded front teeth around age seven to eight
- Asymmetry in the face or jaw
If you notice any of these signs, scheduling an orthodontic evaluation is recommended regardless of your child’s age. Early detection allows for more treatment options and potentially less intensive interventions.
What to Expect During an Early Orthodontic Evaluation
Many parents worry about taking their young child to an orthodontist, fearing it might be stressful or uncomfortable. At ABC Children’s Dentistry, we’ve created a kid-friendly environment specifically designed to put young patients at ease.
During an early evaluation, we typically:
- Examine your child’s teeth, jaw, and bite
- Take digital photographs to document current conditions
- Obtain X-rays if necessary to see developing teeth and bone structure
- Discuss any findings and potential treatment recommendations
- Answer questions about your child’s specific orthodontic needs
The evaluation is painless and usually takes about 30-45 minutes. Our team explains each step in child-friendly language, helping your little one feel comfortable and engaged in the process. Our Disney-themed office environment helps create a positive experience from the moment they walk through our doors.
Visit ABC Children’s Dentistry for Your Child’s Early Evaluation
At ABC Children’s Dentistry, Dr. Jeffrey Singer and our experienced team provide comprehensive early orthodontic evaluations in a welcoming, fun environment. We’ve been recognized as a Top Dentist for Pediatric Dentistry by the Consumers Research Council of America and featured in the “Guide to America’s Top Dentists.”
Our practice specializes in creating positive dental experiences for children while providing the highest quality care. With our expertise in pediatric dentistry and early orthodontic assessment, we help families in Voorhees Township and surrounding communities set their children on the path to healthy, beautiful smiles. To schedule your child’s early orthodontic evaluation, call us at (856) 783-3515 or request an appointment through our contact form.
