What Age Should a Child See an Orthodontist?

A healthy smile starts with the right timing. Many parents wonder when their child should first visit an orthodontist, especially if teeth look crowded or the bite seems off. Seeing an orthodontist early doesn’t always mean getting braces right away,  it’s about understanding how your child’s teeth and jaw are growing.

At Davoody & Hablinski Orthodontics in Houston, TX, the team helps families make confident decisions about early orthodontic care. Here’s a simple FAQ guide to help you know when to schedule your child’s first orthodontic visit and what to expect during the process.

Why might my child need to see an orthodontist?

Orthodontists specialize in diagnosing and guiding how teeth and jaws grow. Some children develop bite problems, crowding, or spacing issues that can be corrected more easily if caught early. An orthodontist can spot these signs and recommend whether early care or monitoring is needed.

At what age should a child have their first orthodontic visit?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic visit around age 7. By this time, most children have a mix of baby and adult teeth, allowing the orthodontist to see how the smile is developing and whether future treatment may be needed.

What happens during the first orthodontic visit?

During the appointment, the orthodontist will:

• Examine the teeth, bite, and jaw alignment
• Take X-rays or photos if necessary
• Discuss growth patterns and possible concerns
• Explain if early treatment or monitoring is recommended
• Answer questions about braces, timing, and next steps
  

It’s usually a relaxed visit that helps parents and children understand what’s ahead.

Do all children need braces after their first orthodontic visit?

Not necessarily. Many children only need periodic check-ups to monitor growth. If everything looks healthy, the orthodontist may suggest waiting until more permanent teeth come in. The goal is to begin treatment at the right time,  not too early, not too late.

What are the benefits of early orthodontic evaluation?

Early evaluation helps the orthodontist:

• Detect jaw or bite problems before they become serious
• Guide tooth growth and alignment
• Prevent more complex treatments later
• Determine if and when child braces might be needed
• Build a positive, stress-free experience for your child
  
  

What factors determine when braces should start?

What should parents expect after the first orthodontic visit?

After the visit, you’ll receive a summary of findings and next steps. The orthodontist might recommend:

• Regular monitoring visits every 6–12 months
• Early treatment if there’s a bite or spacing issue
• Waiting until more permanent teeth erupt before starting braces
  

The goal is to keep things simple and stress-free while ensuring your child’s smile develops in the healthiest way possible.

Quick Recap

• Schedule your child’s first orthodontic visit around age 7.
• This early checkup helps monitor jaw and tooth development.
• Child braces may or may not be needed right away.
• Early evaluation can make later treatment faster and easier.
• Regular visits help your child maintain confidence in their smile.

If your child is around age 7 or showing signs of crowding or bite issues, it’s a good time to schedule a visit with Davoody & Hablinski Orthodontics in Houston, TX. The team provides gentle, expert care to guide your child’s smile at the perfect time. Book a consultation today to learn whether early monitoring or treatment is the right step for your child’s orthodontic health.