When Should My Child See The Orthodontist?

While many parents understand the importance of their child seeing their dentist for the first time at an early age, it can be a bit more confusing deciding when — or if — your child should see an orthodontist. As your trusted local Johannesburg orthodontist, Choonara Orthodontics is here to help struggling parents understand the importance of early orthodontics and the role it can play in your children's life for years to come.

At What Age Should My Child See an Orthodontist?

First and foremost, it's important for every child to see an orthodontist at least once, in order to determine if there are any potential issues that may need correcting. Ideally, your child should have their first orthodontic appointment by the age of seven. This is because by age seven, some of your child's permanent teeth will have grown in, including their first set of permanent molars. By studying your child's new and incoming adult teeth, their orthodontist will be able to begin tracking your child's developing bite to deduce if there might be any future developmental issues. With the help of x-rays, this includes whether or not your child may be missing any permanent teeth. The earlier orthodontic issues can be identified, the quicker and easier treatment can be provided to address these problems.

Signs Your Child Should See an Orthodontist

There are also many signs and symptoms you should be on the lookout for which are warning signs that your child should be evaluated by an orthodontist sooner rather than later. These signs include early or late loss of baby teeth, noticeable difficulties with chewing or biting, thumb sucking, crowded or gapped teeth, jaw misalignment, popping or cracking in the jaw, mismatched bites, and mouth breathing. While you don't need a dentists' recommendation for your child to see an orthodontist, you can speak to your pediatric dentist to help you understand if orthodontic treatment is recommended.

Early Orthodontic Care from your Johannesburg and Sandton Orthodontist

Remember — just because you take your child for their first orthodontic check-up at age seven doesn't necessarily mean orthodontic treatment will begin at that time. However, should it be determined your child would benefit from early treatment, you can rest assured they are in capable hands with Dr. Choonara — your local Johannesburg and Sandton orthodontist. At Choonara orthodontics, we have the treatment options to suit your child's needs, from braces to retention, and any appliances required in-between!

Schedule an Appointment with your Johannesburg Orthodontist Today

If you believe your child may benefit early orthodontic treatment, or if they're ready for their first orthodontic check-up, your local Johannesburg and Sandton orthodontist at Choonara Orthodontics is ready to help. Our office provides a friendly, welcoming atmosphere in order to help your child feel comfortable and remain at-ease during their orthodontic visits. If you have any questions about our services or treatments, or if you'd like to schedule an appointment, please don't hesitate to contact us. You are also welcome to use our convenient online appointment request form. We thank you for choosing Choonara Orthodontics and look forward to meeting you!