When Should My Child First See an Orthodontist? Our Winston-Salem Experts Weigh In
As a parent, it’s natural to wonder when your child should first see an orthodontist. You’re not alone—this is one of the most common questions we hear from families in the Winston-Salem area. Whether you’ve noticed your child’s teeth starting to crowd or you’re just trying to stay ahead of the game, you’re doing the right thing by seeking answers early.
At Bisig + Chermak + Rudnicke Orthodontics, our orthodontists in Winston-Salem are here to guide you every step of the way. Let's break down when and why your child should have their first orthodontic evaluation, what to expect, and how early care can lead to a healthier smile for life.
What’s the Right Age for a Child’s First Orthodontist Visit?
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, your child should see an orthodontist by age 7. This may sound early, especially if your child still has baby teeth, but there’s a reason behind this recommendation.
By age 7, your child’s mouth has developed enough for an orthodontist to spot subtle issues with jaw growth, tooth alignment, and bite patterns—even if they haven’t fully emerged yet. Addressing these concerns early can help prevent more serious problems later.
As your local orthodontist in Winston-Salem, we encourage parents to think of this visit like a routine checkup—just one that focuses on the future of your child’s smile.
What Happens at an Early Orthodontic Evaluation?
We know the idea of an orthodontic appointment might sound intimidating at first, especially for young children. But rest assured, the initial visit is gentle, informative, and completely non-invasive.
Here’s what typically happens:
- We take a look at how your child’s teeth and jaw are developing.
- We may take a few digital X-rays or photos to get a clearer picture.
- Our orthodontists will explain if there are any current or potential issues.
- Most importantly, we’ll let you know if any treatment is needed—and if not, we’ll simply continue to monitor your child’s growth with periodic check-ins.
Our goal is never to recommend treatment unless it’s truly needed. In fact, many children don’t need braces or appliances right away. But if they do, catching issues early can make a big difference.
Why Early Orthodontic Treatment Matters
You might be wondering: Why fix something before it becomes a problem? That’s a great question, and it’s one we hear often.
The answer lies in the power of interceptive orthodontics—also called Phase 1 treatment. This approach allows us to guide the growth of your child’s jaw and create space for incoming permanent teeth, all while their mouth is still developing.
Some benefits of early treatment include:
- Correcting harmful habits like thumb-sucking or mouth breathing
- Guiding jaw growth to prevent bite problems
- Reducing the risk of crowding or impacted teeth later on
- Improving facial symmetry and speech development
- Possibly shortening or simplifying future orthodontic treatment
As your trusted Winston-Salem orthodontist, we believe early insight leads to better outcomes—and happier patients.
Common Signs Your Child Might Need to See an Orthodontist
Even if your child hasn’t reached age 7 yet, there are a few signs that might prompt a visit sooner:
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Thumb-sucking after age 4
- Mouth breathing
- Crowded, misplaced, or blocked teeth
- Jaws that shift, pop, or make sounds
- Teeth that don’t come together properly
If you’ve noticed any of these in your child, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our orthodontists in Winston-Salem are happy to offer a no-pressure consultation to assess your child’s needs.
How to Choose the Right Orthodontist in Winston-Salem
Choosing the right orthodontic provider is an important decision, and we’re honored that families across Winston-Salem trust us with their care.
Here’s what sets Bisig + Chermak + Rudnicke Orthodontics apart:
- We serve patients of all ages: From early evaluations for children to Invisalign for adults, we customize care for every life stage.
- Board-certified doctors: Our orthodontists—Dr. Bisig, Dr. Chermak, and Dr. Rudnicke—are experienced, compassionate, and committed to creating healthy smiles that last a lifetime.
- Family-first approach: We take time to educate you and your child every step of the way, with clear communication and a pressure-free mindset.
- Convenience: With multiple locations, flexible scheduling, and advanced technology, we make orthodontic care accessible for busy families like yours.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics in Winston-Salem
Is early orthodontic treatment always necessary?
Not always! We only recommend treatment when it will provide a long-term benefit. Sometimes early monitoring is all that’s needed.
When should my child get braces?
Every child is different, but most kids begin braces between ages 9 and 14. Our orthodontists in Winston-Salem can help determine the right time during an evaluation.
Are clear aligners an option for kids?
Yes, for some kids and teens! Invisalign can be a great option for those who are responsible enough to wear them consistently. We’ll help you decide what’s best.
Do you offer orthodontic consultations in Winston-Salem?
Absolutely! Bisig + Chermak + Rudnicke Orthodontics offers friendly, no-pressure consultations. We’ll assess your child’s smile and give you honest guidance on next steps.
Ready to Schedule Your Child’s First Orthodontic Visit?
Bringing your child to an orthodontist in Winston-Salem around age 7 is a great way to support a healthy, confident smile. Whether treatment is needed now or later, Bisig + Chermak + Rudnicke Orthodontics is here to guide your family every step of the way.
If you're looking for an experienced, welcoming orthodontic team in Winston-Salem, we’d love to meet you. Schedule your free consultation online today—we can’t wait to help your child smile with confidence.