What is a good time for my child to see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that all children receive their first orthodontic examination by age 7. This important guideline, outlined on the AAO’s official website, is based on decades of research and clinical experience showing that early evaluation allows orthodontists to identify concerns that may not yet be visible to parents or even to a general dentist.

By age 7, most children have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth, giving orthodontists a clear picture of how the jaws are growing and how the adult teeth are beginning to emerge. This early snapshot allows orthodontists to detect developing problems such as crowding, misalignment, crossbites, underbites, spacing issues, and abnormalities in jaw growth.

An evaluation at this age does not mean that treatment will begin right away. In fact, most children do not need braces or aligners at age 7. However, for the minority of children who do benefit from early guidance, timely treatment can reduce the severity of future issues, improve facial growth, create space for incoming permanent teeth, and in some cases prevent the need for more invasive correction later.

The AAO emphasizes that early examinations also give parents valuable peace of mind. Orthodontists can track a child’s growth over the years and intervene only when appropriate. This “watchful waiting” approach ensures treatment is efficient, effective, and customized for each child’s development.

Parents seeking more information can refer directly to the American Association of Orthodontists’ official website, where the full recommendation and educational resources are available.

An orthodontic screening at age 7 is simple, comfortable, and one of the best steps parents can take to ensure a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles.