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When it comes to your child’s smile, early care makes a big difference. At Smile Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, we believe in taking a proactive approach—and that includes early orthodontic evaluations. While many parents think orthodontic care begins in the teen years, the truth is that starting earlier can lead to healthier, more efficient outcomes.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Here’s why that timing matters—and what benefits early evaluations can provide.
Why Age 7?
Around age 7, most children have a mix of baby and permanent teeth. This is the ideal time for an orthodontist to assess how the teeth and jaws are developing and identify any concerns before they become more complicated.
At this stage, we can evaluate:
- Bite alignment (how the top and bottom teeth fit together)
- Jaw growth and symmetry
- Space for incoming permanent teeth
- Habits like thumb sucking that may impact development
Even if no immediate treatment is needed, early evaluation allows us to monitor your child’s growth and plan care at the right time.
Key Benefits of Early Orthodontic Evaluations
Starting early doesn’t always mean starting braces early—but it does allow us to intervene when necessary. Benefits include:
- Early Detection of Problems
Crowding, overbites, underbites, and crossbites can often be spotted before all adult teeth are in. Early evaluation helps us create a plan to correct or minimize these issues. - Guidance for Jaw Growth
In some cases, early treatment can help guide proper jaw development, improving facial symmetry and preventing more invasive procedures later. - Creating Space for Incoming Teeth
If baby teeth are lost too early—or too late—it can affect how permanent teeth grow in. We can use space maintainers or early appliances to help teeth come in correctly. - Addressing Oral Habits
Prolonged thumb sucking or tongue thrusting can alter bite development. With early evaluations, we can work on breaking these habits and protecting future alignment. - Planning for the Future
Even if no treatment is needed, early evaluations allow us to track your child’s growth and start treatment at the most effective time. That often leads to shorter, more efficient treatment later on.
What to Expect During the Evaluation
Orthodontic evaluations are quick, comfortable, and completely kid-friendly. During your child’s visit, we will:
- Examine the teeth, bite, and jaw alignment
- Take digital images or X-rays if needed
- Discuss any concerns or developmental patterns
- Recommend next steps, which may include monitoring or early intervention
We make the experience stress-free and educational, so children and parents leave feeling informed and confident.
Our Commitment to Early, Preventive Care
At Smile Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, we’re passionate about helping children grow into their healthiest, most confident smiles. Our experienced team offers early orthodontic screenings to identify and manage potential concerns before they require more complex treatment.
We create personalized care plans for each child, whether that means simple observation or early intervention using gentle appliances. With our supportive, family-focused approach, your child will feel comfortable every step of the way.
Schedule Your Child’s Appointment Today
Wondering if it’s time for your child’s first orthodontic check-up? Let’s find out together! At Smile Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, we’re here to provide expert guidance and care to support your child’s smile at every stage.
Call us today at 719-282-6666
Find us in Colorado Springs, Monument, and Aurora—we love serving our community’s smiles!
Let’s build lifelong healthy habits together—one happy smile at a time!
