At What Age Should a Child Go to the Orthodontist?

Every child grows at a unique pace, and the same applies to their oral health. Many parents wonder when it's the right time to take their child to an orthodontist. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should have their first orthodontic consultation at the age of seven. At this age, a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth would have emerged, making it easier for orthodontists like Dr. Weston Carpiaux to detect any potential issues.

Why Age Seven?

While seven may seem young for orthodontic care, there are a variety of reasons why a consultation at this age can benefit your child’s lifelong oral health.

• Early Detection: At the age of seven, orthodontists can identify issues with jaw growth or emerging teeth. Early detection can lead to more effective treatment and prevent more serious problems in the future.
• Preventive Measures: If a child's mouth is too small for upcoming permanent teeth, an orthodontist can create room for them, which can potentially prevent the need for tooth extractions later.
• Guidance of Growth: Orthodontists can also help guide jaw growth to accommodate emerging teeth, improving the chances of a straight and healthy smile.

Signs Your Child May Need an Orthodontist

While age seven is a general guideline, there are signs that your child may need to see an orthodontist earlier. These include:

• Early, late, or irregular loss of baby teeth
• Difficulty in chewing or biting
• Mouth breathing or thumb sucking
• Crowded, misplaced, or blocked teeth
• Jaws that shift, make sounds, or are disproportionate to the face

Benefits of Early Orthodontic Evaluation

An early orthodontic evaluation does not necessarily result in immediate treatment. In most cases, if treatment is needed, Dr. Carpiaux will simply monitor your child's growth patterns until the perfect time for treatment. The benefits of early orthodontic evaluation include:

• Proactive Approach: It allows for a proactive approach in your child's oral health, potentially saving time, money, and discomfort in the future.
• Healthy Smile: It sets the stage for a lifetime of better oral health and a confident smile.

What to Expect During the First Visit

Your child's first visit to Carpiaux Family Orthodontics will be a comfortable and positive experience. Dr. Carpiaux will:

• Evaluate your child's oral health history
• Conduct a comprehensive examination of your child's mouth
• Discuss potential treatment options if necessary
• Answer any questions you or your child may have

Schedule Your Child's Orthodontic Consultation in La Verne, CA

At Carpiaux Family Orthodontics, we believe in providing comprehensive, patient-focused orthodontic care. Dr. Weston Carpiaux is dedicated to ensuring your child's oral health is in excellent condition. If your child is seven or showing signs of needing orthodontic care, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with us. Call us today at (925) 286-1481 or visit our practice in La Verne, CA. We look forward to welcoming you and your child to our orthodontic family.