Is it really necessary to see an orthodontist when your child still has plenty of baby teeth? For most families, the answer is yes. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic evaluation by age seven, and at Drs. Savage, Sabol & Visser we agree. Early treatments aren’t about putting braces on second‑graders; they’re about catching problems while they’re easy to fix.
Why Age 7 Matters
By age seven, the first permanent molars usually erupt, establishing the back bite. An orthodontist can spot emerging issues—such as crowding, crossbites or jaw discrepancies—before they become complicated. Our own article on the importance of age‑seven check‑ups explains that “it can be better to solve some problems before the individual has all of their adult teeth”. Addressing issues early gives parents peace of mind and often reduces the need for invasive treatment later.
Additional Reasons to Start Early
Many parents assume that orthodontics can wait until the teen years, but waiting can limit treatment options. Habits like thumb sucking, prolonged bottle use or mouth breathing can alter jaw growth and lead to open bites or narrow palates. Early intervention allows us to break these habits, guide tooth eruption and influence jaw development. An evaluation at age seven also provides a baseline record—we monitor how your child’s smile is changing at each check‑up, making it easier to spot when intervention becomes necessary.
What to Expect at the First Visit
A child’s first orthodontic appointment is painless and informative. At your visit we will:
- Review medical and dental history.
- Take digital X‑rays and photographs to assess tooth and jaw development.
- Perform a gentle exam to evaluate bite, growth pattern and oral habits.
- Discuss whether treatment is needed now, later or not at all.
Even if no treatment is necessary, we’ll give you guidance on monitoring your child’s growth and schedule periodic check‑ups to ensure everything stays on track.
Benefits of Early Intervention
If your child does need interceptive care, treatment is often simpler and shorter than braces during the teenage years. Early intervention can:
- Guide jaw growth to reduce crowding or protrusion.
- Correct harmful habits like thumb sucking.
- Improve speech and chewing function.
- Support self‑confidence by ensuring a healthy smile.
Our doctors note that a consultation around age seven can “help to minimize or prevent orthodontic problems” and support better emotional and physical health. In many cases, starting early means less time in full braces later.
Give Your Child a Head Start
Your child deserves a healthy, confident smile. If your little one is approaching age seven—or you’ve noticed bite problems even earlier—contact Dr. Anthony W. Savage, Dr. George J. Sabol or Dr. Britt E. Visser today. We’ll help you determine the right time for treatment and answer all your questions. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation at any of our Virginia Beach or Onley offices.
