When is the right time for my child to begin orthodontic care?

Orthodontic treatment plays a vital role in ensuring healthy, aligned teeth and a confident smile. One of the most common questions parents ask our Specialist Orthodontists is: "When is the right time for my child to begin orthodontic care?"

While each child’s dental needs are unique, certain guidelines can help determine the ideal timing for an initial evaluation and, if necessary, treatment.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7 years. By this age, most children have a mix of primary (baby) teeth and permanent teeth. This stage provides orthodontists with a clear view of how the teeth are erupting, how the jaws are developing, and whether there are any early indicators of misalignment, crowding, or bite issues.

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An early orthodontic check-up doesn’t always mean treatment will begin immediately. In many cases, your orthodontist will simply monitor your child’s growth and development, waiting for the right time to intervene if necessary. However, early evaluations can:

• Detect potential problems like crossbites, severe crowding, or jaw discrepancies.
• Guide the growth of the jaw and ensure proper alignment of emerging permanent teeth.
• Reduce the risk of more severe dental issues down the line, potentially minimizing the need for invasive treatments in the future.

Orthodontic treatment can generally be divided into two phases:

1. Phase One (Early Treatment)

   This occurs while a child still has some baby teeth and is designed to address problems that cannot wait, such as severe jaw misalignment or harmful oral habits like thumb sucking.

2. Phase Two (Adolescent Treatment)

   This takes place when most or all permanent teeth have erupted, typically between the ages of 11 and 14. At this stage, braces or clear aligners are often used to achieve the final alignment of teeth and jaws.

Your orthodontist will determine the need and timing for each phase based on your child’s individual case.

SEE ALSO: At What Age Should a Child Go to the Dentist?

While early evaluation is critical for children, orthodontic treatment is not limited to young patients. Many adults seek treatment to correct long-standing issues or enhance their smile aesthetics with modern solutions like clear aligners. In fact, here at Harmony, we treat a lot of adult patients using Invisalign, the Damon System, and metal and ceramic braces.

At Harmony Medical Center, we’re committed to providing comprehensive orthodontic care for patients of all ages. Whether it’s your child’s first visit or you’re considering treatment for yourself, our expert team is here to guide you through every step of the journey. Schedule an orthodontic consultation today and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile. Call 04 395 5113 (Dubai) or 800 333 444 (Abu Dhabi) today.