The American Association of Orthodontists recommends all children get a checkup with an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7.

Here's Why:

Orthodontists can spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth while some baby teeth are still present.

• While your child's teeth may appear to be straight, there could be a problem that only an orthodontist can detect.
• The checkup may reveal that your child's bite is fine. Often, the orthodontist will identify a potential problem but recommend monitoring the child's growth and development, and then, if indicated, begin treatment at the right time for the child. In other cases, the orthodontist might find a problem that can benefit from early treatment.
• Early treatment may prevent more serious problems from developing and may make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated.
• In some cases, the orthodontist will be able to achieve results that wouldn't be possible once the face and jaws have finished growing.

Early treatment may give your orthodontist a chance to:

Guide jaw growth
Lower the risk of trauma to protruded front teeth
Correct harmful oral habits
Improve appearance
Guide permanent teeth into a more favorable position
Improve the way lips meet

Through early orthodontic screening, you'll be giving your child the best opportunity for a healthy beautiful smile that's good for life.

If your child is older than 7, it's certainly not too late for a checkup. Each person grows at her or his own rate, both physically and emotionally, so the best time to start orthodontic treatment can vary. Click here to schedule a free consultation to determine whether your child is ready for orthodontic treatment.