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The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have an ortho exam by age 7

A plan for a healthier mouth and teeth

If your orthodontist recommends braces or other treatments, don't wait. Adjusting bite and jaw problems is much easier when you are young. Plus, it can prevent long-term problems with chewing and speaking.

Bite and bones

The orthodontist will check on the motion of your child's jaw and how their teeth align (or don't!). She may take a mold of your child's mouth and panoramic X-Rays so she can see your child's incoming permanent teeth.

Why seven years old?

At seven, most children are starting to get their permanent teeth, but still have their baby teeth. This give the orthodontist a chance to see how your child's bite is and assess how those grown up teeth are coming in.

Signs your child needs to see an orthodontist

There are subtle problems that only a trained orthodontists can detect, but teeth have a way of warning you about future problems. If you child shows any of these signs, schedule a free orthodontic consultation.

Loses those baby teeth too soon or too late
Has difficulty chewing or biting
Breathes through their mouth
Sucks their thumb
Their teeth are crowded, misplaced or blocked-out
Their teeth don't meet normally, or don’t meet at all
Their jaw shifts or makes sounds
They grind or clench their teeth
They bite their cheek or the roof of their mouth
They have trouble speaking
Their face doesn't look even side-to-side or front-to-back
Their jaw appears to be too far forward or too far back

Every tilted tooth is crooked in its very own way

No two mouths, jaws or teeth are the same. That's why it's important to work with a certified Orthodontist. They do a lot more than tweak your child's teeth. They analyze the structure and alignment of your child's jaw and bite then plan how to move teeth and bones to create a healthier bite and straighter smile.

Helping kids care for braces

Little tiny rubber bands. Springy wires. Tough to brush teeth. Living with braces can be a challenge for kids and grown ups.

Helping kids care for braces. Little tiny rubber bands. Springy wires. Tough to brush teeth. Living with braces can be a challenge for kids and grown ups. What to expect with braces

Kids Braces

Make sure even little ones are on the right path