What Age Should a Child See an Orthodontist?
Pediatric orthodontics: what age is best?
Most children should have an orthodontic screening by age 7. At this age, an orthodontist can spot early bite and jaw growth concerns and guide development before problems get harder to fix.
Quick-look timeline
Child’s age | What usually happens | Why it matters |
6–7 | First check and growth review | Catch crowding and bite issues early |
7–10 | Early care only if needed | Guide jaw growth and create space for adult teeth |
11–14 | Most comprehensive care | Phase II treatment when adult teeth are in |
After treatment | Retainers | Keep the new smile stable |
What happens at the first orthodontic visit?
- Your visit is friendly and informative.
- Expect a clinical exam and x-rays to check tooth and jaw growth.
- If treatment is recommended, the team can often start the process the same day.
- Records may include 3D virtual study models and 3D virtual x-rays to plan care with precision.
- Financing options are reviewed so you know what to expect.
Does every child need early treatment?
Not always. Many kids only need monitoring until the ideal time. McAllen Orthodontic Group offers an Orthodontic Supervisory Program with growth check-ins about every 6 to 8 months at no cost, so treatment begins exactly when it will work best.
What signs suggest my child should be checked soon?
Signs suggesting your child should be checked by a dentist or orthodontist soon:
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Crowding of the teeth
- Difficulty chewing
- Mouth breathing
- Thumb or finger habits
- Jaw sounds (clicking, popping, etc.)
- Bites that do not close evenly
If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to schedule a visit for professional guidance.
How does two-phase treatment work for kids?
Two-phase treatment uses the right care at the right time. Phase One happens while some baby teeth are still present to guide jaw growth and create space. After a resting period with simple monitoring, Phase Two fine-tunes alignment when the adult teeth are in. This approach can lower the need for extractions or jaw surgery later and can reduce total treatment time.
Child braces: when are braces or clear aligners used?
When comprehensive treatment is needed, your orthodontist may recommend:
- Metal braces that are small and comfortable
- Ceramic braces that blend in for a lower-profile look
- Clear aligners for a removable, discreet option. McAllen Orthodontic Group offers Spark clear aligners, designed for clarity and comfort
Your orthodontist will explain which option fits your child’s needs best based on the bite, growth pattern, oral habits, and hygiene.
What happens after treatment is finished?
Retainers keep teeth in their new positions. The practice fits removable or fixed retainers and offers guidance on wear and care. There is also a Retainer Protection Program to make replacement easier over time, so your child’s results last.
Will my child see an orthodontist only during treatment?
You will continue routine dental cleanings with your family dentist while the orthodontic team manages the bite and alignment. Working together keeps your child’s smile healthy and on track.
Fast recap for parents
- Best first check: around age 7 to evaluate growth and bite
- Not every child needs early care: many benefit from no-cost growth monitoring until the perfect start time
- Treatment choices when needed: metal braces, ceramic braces, and Spark clear aligners
- Two-phase approach: early guidance, then comprehensive finishing in the teen years
- Retainers protect results: custom retainers and a protection program help maintain the smile
Ready to take the next step? Call McAllen Orthodontic Group in McAllen, TX to schedule your child’s first orthodontic visit today.