What Age Should My Child See an Orthodontist?

At Truman Orthodontics, we know that as a parent, your child’s health and happiness are your top priorities. When it comes to their smile, early care can make a big difference—but knowing when to see an orthodontist isn’t always obvious. Many people think orthodontic treatment starts in the teenage years, but in reality, your child’s first orthodontic check-up should happen much earlier. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial evaluation by age 7—and here’s why that matters.

By age 7, most children have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth. This transitional stage allows an orthodontist to identify potential problems early, such as issues with jaw growth or tooth alignment, even before all the permanent teeth come in.

Early orthodontic evaluations can:

Early evaluation does not always mean early treatment. In many cases, Dr. Truman or Dr. Joe will simply monitor your child’s development. However, when early intervention is needed, it can make future treatment faster, easier, and less invasive.

Even if your child’s teeth look straight, there could be underlying issues with their bite or jaw development. A quick consultation can give you peace of mind and help your child stay on track for a healthy, confident smile. If you’re unsure whether it’s time, talk to your dentist or schedule a complimentary consultation with our office. It’s never too early to set your child up for lifelong oral health.