Orthodontists specialize in preventing and treating jaw irregularities and misaligned teeth caused by genetics or developed habits. The best time for your child’s first orthodontic evaluation is around age seven. However, children with visible facial irregularities may benefit from an earlier assessment and preventive treatment.
Request an AppointmentOrthodontists are trained to identify subtle issues in jaw development and tooth alignment—even when both baby and permanent teeth are present. Early detection through an orthodontic check-up allows for timely intervention and effective treatment planning.
Signs of Potential Orthodontic Problems
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Jaws that click, shift, or make noise when moving
- Facial asymmetry caused by uneven jaw growth
- Persistent finger or thumb sucking
- Misaligned bite (upper and lower teeth not meeting properly)
Common Orthodontic Problems in Children
Children often experience overcrowding, jaw growth irregularities, protruding teeth, or gaps between teeth. While some of these issues are inherited, others can develop due to:
- Poor nutrition or dental hygiene
- Medical conditions such as birth defects
- Habits like thumb or finger sucking
- Chronic mouth breathing
- Premature or delayed loss of baby teeth
How Can an Orthodontist Help My Child?
Depending on your child’s needs, the orthodontist may recommend one of several approaches. In some cases, irregularities are monitored until the appropriate time for treatment. In other cases, early orthodontic intervention is initiated to prevent more serious complications later on.
Early treatment can:
- Reduce the need for extensive future treatment
- Correct harmful habits that cause misalignment
- Guide healthy jaw growth and tooth eruption
- Improve facial balance and confidence
- Lower the risk of injury to protruding teeth
If you have questions about when your child should see an orthodontist, please contact our office for guidance and to schedule an evaluation.