What is the Right Age to See an Orthodontist?

Wondering when to take your child to the orthodontist? Age seven is ideal for a first visit to check growth, spot potential issues early, and create a smart plan for their smile.

Dr. Taylor Brown answers the question: What is the right age to see an orthodontist? Did you know that the best age to bring your child to the orthodontist is seven? I know what you're thinking: "That young? You want to put braces on my precious little princess or my handsome little stud muffin?" Of course not! The first visit is super important for several reasons:

]1.) We check the eruption path of the permanent teeth.

2.) We watch for any immediate or irreversible damage.

3.) We get to know your child. We'll let you know if there's anything to watch out for, if any conservative treatment will help, and help plan for the future. We love it when a good plan comes together!

[Speaker]
Hi! Did you know that the best age to bring your child to the orthodontist is age seven?

I know what you're thinking—that young? You want to put braces on my precious little princess? On my handsome little stud muffin?

Of course we don't!

But that first visit is super important. The purpose of that visit is to check the eruption path of the permanent teeth, watch for any immediate or irreversible damage, and to get to know your child.

We’ll let you know if there’s anything to watch out for, if any conservative treatment might help, and we’ll help you plan for the future.

Because we love it when a good plan comes together.

Transcript

Hi! Did you know that the best age to bring your child to the orthodontist is around age seven?

I know what you’re thinking: “That young? You want to put braces on my precious little princess or my handsome little stud muffin?”

Of course we don’t.

That first visit is super important for a different reason. The purpose of that first appointment is to:

  • Check the eruption path of the permanent teeth
  • Watch for any immediate or irreversible damage
  • Start getting to know your child and helping them feel comfortable

We’ll let you know if there’s anything to watch out for, if any simple, conservative treatment would help, and how to plan for the future.

Because here at Idaho Orthodontics…
we love it when a good plan comes together.

Tags
Date Posted
November 20, 2025
Video Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Right Age to See an Orthodontist?

Why is age 7 the best time for a child’s first orthodontic visit?
Around age seven, many of the permanent front teeth and first molars have started to come in. This gives the orthodontist a clear look at how your child’s bite is developing and whether any problems are likely to become more serious later. Early checks help us catch concerns before they cause damage or become harder to treat.
Will my 7-year-old need braces right away?
Not usually. Most kids we see at age seven do not need braces right away. The first visit is mainly about evaluating growth, checking the path of permanent teeth, and making sure nothing is causing immediate or irreversible harm. Often, we simply monitor your child’s smile as they grow and recommend treatment at the right time, if needed.
What happens at a child’s first orthodontic visit at Idaho Orthodontics?
During the first visit, we’ll gently examine your child’s teeth and bite, review their dental and medical history, and may take photos or X-rays if needed. We’ll explain what we see in clear, parent-friendly terms, let you know if there’s anything to watch, and talk about conservative options if early treatment could help. The visit is relaxed, low pressure, and focused on making your child feel comfortable.
What are the benefits of bringing my child in early instead of waiting until they’re a teenager?
Early evaluation allows us to spot problems sooner, such as crowding, crossbites, or eruption issues, and sometimes correct them before they get worse. In some cases, early guidance can make later treatment shorter, simpler, and more effective. Even if no treatment is needed yet, having a plan in place gives you peace of mind—because, like we say, we love it when a good plan comes together.
speaker phone graphic

Let's get in touch.

person graphic
email graphic
phone graphic
chat message graphic
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.