When should your child see an orthodontist

child see an orthodontist

A smooth transition from baby teeth, or primary teeth, to adult teeth, or permanent teeth, is critical in adolescence.  Baby teeth set the foundation for adult teeth and their proper positions. That’s why it’s essential to have an orthodontist examine your child’s mouth while they still have baby teeth.

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends having a child’s teeth examined by the age of 7 years old, even while baby teeth are still in the mouth. Orthodontists can help correct crowding teeth, guide the development of the growing jaws, and help make space for adult teeth growing into the mouth.

While your child’s teeth appear to be straight, there could be underlying issues with their adult teeth including complications with how the adult teeth will erupt, a misaligned bite, or crowding of the teeth. Orthodontists can identify these issues prematurely and start correcting them to avoid possible difficulties for future adult teeth. By age 7, enough permanent teeth have surfaced to assess the relationship between the developing teeth, jaw and bite and ensuring the adult teeth will continue to develop properly.

Alternatively, your child could start showing signs of needing an orthodontic examination.

Signs that your child may need to see an orthodontist

  • Loses their baby teeth too soon or too late
  • Has trouble biting or chewing
  • Breathes out of their mouth
  • A habit of sucking on their thumb
  • Has crowding or misplaced teeth
  • Shifting jaw or a jaw that makes sounds
  • Has a hard time speaking
  • Bites on their cheek or the roof of their mouth
  • Has a facial imbalance
  • Grinds or clenches their teeth
  • Has jaws that appear too far forward or too far back

Dr. Liliam Hernandez of Miracle Smile Dental in Coral Gables is one of the best orthodontists in South Florida. Call Miracle Smile Dental today to schedule your child’s first orthodontist visit!

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