When Should My Child See an Orthodontist? A Parent’s Guide

child smiling

As a parent, you want your child to grow up with a healthy, confident smile — but knowing when to start orthodontic care can be confusing. Should you wait until all their adult teeth are in? Or should you schedule a visit earlier?

At Gupta Smile Studio – Orthodontics in Oak Cliff, Dallas, we hear this question all the time. The truth is, the best time for your child’s first orthodontic visit may be earlier than you think.

🦷 The Magic Age: 7 Years Old

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7 — even if they don’t have all their permanent teeth yet.

Why age 7? Because by this time, your child’s first adult molars and front teeth have typically come in, allowing an orthodontist to evaluate:

• How the jaws are growing

• Whether there’s enough space for incoming teeth

• Early signs of crowding, crossbites, or overbites

• Any habits like thumb-sucking or mouth breathing affecting growth

Catching issues early often means simpler, faster, and more affordable treatment later on.

👧 What We Look for During an Early Evaluation

At Gupta Smile Studio, your child’s first orthodontic visit is gentle, fun, and informative. We’ll:

1. Take digital photos and/or a 3D scan — no goopy impressions!

2. Check the alignment of teeth and jaws.

3. Evaluate breathing patterns and facial balance.

4. Discuss whether your child might benefit from early treatment or just monitoring.

Most kids don’t need braces right away — but if they do, early intervention can make a big difference in guiding proper growth.

🌱 The Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment (Phase 1)

If we notice significant bite or growth issues, Phase 1 treatment can help correct them while the jaws are still developing. Benefits include:

• Creating space for permanent teeth to erupt properly

• Improving airway and breathing patterns

• Correcting crossbites or underbites early

• Reducing the need for extractions or surgery later

• Boosting your child’s confidence with a healthier smile

Phase 1 treatment typically lasts 6–12 months and can include expanders, partial braces, or other gentle appliances.

🕒 What Happens After Phase 1

After early treatment, most kids enter a “resting phase,” where we monitor growth and wait for remaining adult teeth to come in. Once that happens, we begin Phase 2 (comprehensive) treatment — usually with full braces or Invisalign Teen®.

This two-phase approach allows us to guide your child’s smile as naturally and efficiently as possible.

💰 Is Early Orthodontic Care Affordable?

Absolutely. At Gupta Smile Studio, we offer:

• Complimentary initial consultations

• Flexible monthly payment plans

• Low down payments

• Insurance verification and filing

• Family discounts when siblings or parents start treatment too

We believe every family in Dallas deserves access to high-quality orthodontic care — without financial stress.

💚 Why Dallas Parents Choose Gupta Smile Studio

• Board-certified, Ivy League–trained orthodontist (Dr. Vick Gupta)

• Family-owned and community-centered practice in Oak Cliff

• Friendly, welcoming office designed to make kids feel comfortable

• Modern technology for faster, more comfortable visits

• A personalized, pressure-free approach to every smile

We treat your child like family — because in our Oak Cliff community, that’s exactly what you are.

📅 Schedule Your Child’s Free Orthodontic Evaluation

If your child is around age 7 — or if you’ve noticed crowding, thumb-sucking, or bite issues — now is the perfect time for an orthodontic checkup.

📍 Visit us at Gupta Smile Studio – Orthodontics, located on Bishop Avenue across from Methodist Hospital, next to Jimmy John’s.📞 Call us today or book online to schedule your child’s free orthodontic consultation and start their journey toward a healthy, confident smile.