As a parent, you’re always looking out for your child’s health, including their smile! Many families wonder when the right time is to bring their child to see an orthodontist. Is it only when permanent teeth come in? Or when something “looks off”? The answer might surprise you.
The Right Age: By Age 7
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. That might seem early, but at this stage, your child will have a mix of baby and adult teeth, which allows us to spot potential issues before they become bigger problems.
Why So Early?
Early orthodontic visits aren’t necessarily about getting braces right away. Instead, they help identify:
- Crowding or spacing issues
- Jaw growth problems
- Overbites, underbites, or crossbites
- Issues with how teeth are coming in
In many cases, catching these concerns early can mean simpler treatment later, and sometimes avoiding the need for more extensive work in the teen years.
What Happens During the First Visit?
Your child’s first orthodontic visit is simple and stress-free. At Gentry Orthodontics, we:
- Examine how your child’s teeth and jaws are developing
- Will take X-rays or digital scans for a better view but no goopy, gaggy impressions
- Discuss any findings and treatment recommendations with you
If everything looks good, your child may not need any treatment right away. But having that early evaluation gives you peace of mind and helps us monitor growth over time.
What If My Child Is Older?
If your child is past age 7 and hasn’t seen an orthodontist yet, don’t worry! It’s never too late to schedule a consultation. Every smile is unique, and many kids don’t start orthodontic treatment until their early teens.
No Referral Needed
You don’t need a referral from your dentist to schedule an orthodontic evaluation. At Gentry Orthodontics, we welcome families to reach out directly — whether you have concerns about your child’s smile or just want to stay ahead with a preventive check. We’re here to help, no referral required!
We’re Here to Help
At Gentry Orthodontics, we believe every child deserves a healthy, confident smile. Early evaluations allow us to guide that development and offer the most effective treatment when the time is right.
Schedule your child’s first orthodontic visit with Gentry Orthodontics today. A lifetime of confident smiles starts here!
Gentry Orthodontics • 661 Dunbar Cave Rd • Suite 100 • Clarksville, TN 37043 • (931) 552-5332