The American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontists say that children should see an orthodontist for the first time when they are about seven years old. So how do you know that your child should see an orthodontist? A simple indicator is your child's age. The American Association of Orthodontists says that age 7 is a good time for a first orthodontic visit. At age 7, your child will most likely have had adult back molars placed on their backs and that some of their baby teeth have been replaced by adult teeth.
The shape of your jaw is also quite determined by this age. At this time of transition, an orthodontist can detect any possible orthodontic problems. Many orthodontists say that a child should see an orthodontist before the age of 7 so that any problems can be detected in time. That doesn't mean a child will get braces fitted right away.
However, the orthodontist will know what problems exist and will be able to choose the best time to start treatment.
