Why should your child first visit the orthodontist? Why should your child visit the orthodontist? The American Associates for Orthodontists recommend that age seven is the best age for a child’s first visit to an orthodontist. While seven could seem like an arbitrary number, it is developmentally the best age to identify any potential orthodontic issues. It is important to note that not everyone develops the same though. Baby teeth typically fall out in the same order for most children, and the age of seven lands in between formative dental years. An orthodontic visit at a young age can help identify crowding, spacing of teeth, and identify any bite or alignment issues.
To Identify Any Spacing Issues
Between the ages of six and eight-years-old, it is typical for children to lose the first eight of their primary teeth. The first four permanent molars are known as the “6-year molars,” because they usually emerge by age six in children. By the age of seven, it is normal for children to have at least four permanent molars and four permanent incisors.This many permanent teeth in a child’s mouth gives an orthodontist a chance to identify any crowding or spacing issues with the teeth. Spotting these issues early can mean that the issues are managed while the rest of the teeth emerge.
To Identify Alignment Issues
By age seven with the amount of teeth that have emerged, the smile will likely have reached a developmental stage where crooked teeth, malocclusion, misalignment, or any underbite or overbite, can be identified. While these types of issues can be also addressed when older, it can be helpful to identify and treat early on. Interceptive orthodontic treatment can help create a healthy mouth and healthy self-esteem for your child.
The age of seven is the best time for a first orthodontic visit
If you or child need your first orthodontic visit, remember that anyone of all ages can visit. To schedule a consultation, call Lake Country Orthodontics in Ft. Worth, TX, at (817) 236-7846. We serve adults, teens, and children from White Settlement, North Fort Worth, Springtown, Rome, Haslet, Azle, Saginaw, and surrounding Texas communities.
