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Parents often ask:
“When should my child see an orthodontist?”
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7.
That does not mean braces start at age seven. In most cases, early visits simply allow the orthodontist to monitor development and determine the best time for treatment.
At Aronson Orthodontics, we provide orthodontic evaluations for children across Southbury, Waterbury, Newtown, Middlebury, Watertown, Oxford, and surrounding Connecticut communities.
If you're looking for a trusted orthodontist in Southbury or Waterbury, you can learn more about our practice here:
➡️ Aronson Orthodontics – Southbury & Waterbury Orthodontist
https://www.beautifulsmiles.com/
Why Age 7 Is the Ideal Age for an Orthodontic Evaluation
Around age seven, children typically have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth. This stage allows orthodontists to detect developing issues that may not be obvious later.
At this age, we evaluate:
- jaw growth and facial development
- crowding or spacing problems
- crossbites and underbites
- harmful oral habits
- bite alignment
- early eruption problems
Some orthodontic problems are much easier to correct while a child is still growing.
Early orthodontic evaluations allow us to determine whether your child needs:
- early interceptive orthodontic treatment
- growth monitoring
- orthodontic treatment during adolescence
You can learn more about treatment options on our Braces & Orthodontic Treatment page:
➡️ https://www.beautifulsmiles.com/braces/
Signs Your Child May Need an Orthodontic Evaluation
While age seven is the recommended guideline, some children benefit from an earlier orthodontic visit.
Parents should consider scheduling an orthodontic consultation if they notice:
- crowded or overlapping teeth
- difficulty chewing or biting
- mouth breathing
- thumb sucking after age five
- teeth that protrude significantly
- jaw shifting when biting
- early or late loss of baby teeth
- speech issues related to bite problems
An early orthodontic evaluation allows us to determine whether interceptive orthodontic treatment could help guide healthy development.
What Happens During Your Child’s First Orthodontic Visit
At Aronson Orthodontics, the first orthodontic consultation is simple, comfortable, and informative.
During the visit we typically:
- examine your child’s teeth and bite
- evaluate jaw growth and facial development
- take digital images or X-rays if necessary
- discuss whether treatment is recommended
If treatment is not needed yet, we may recommend periodic growth monitoring.
Monitoring allows us to begin treatment at the ideal developmental stage, which often leads to shorter and more efficient orthodontic treatment later.
Learn more about what to expect during a first orthodontic consultation here:
➡️ https://www.beautifulsmiles.com/first-visit/
What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment (Phase 1)?
Early orthodontic treatment, sometimes called Phase 1 orthodontics, typically occurs between ages 7 and 10.
The goal is to guide jaw development and create space for permanent teeth.
Early orthodontic treatment may involve:
- palatal expanders
- limited braces
- space maintainers
- growth guidance appliances
Early treatment may help:
- prevent severe crowding
- correct crossbites
- improve jaw development
- reduce risk of dental trauma
- simplify future orthodontic treatment
You can learn more about orthodontic treatment options for children here:
➡️ https://www.beautifulsmiles.com/children-orthodontics/
Do All Children Need Orthodontic Treatment at Age 7?
No.
Most children do not start braces at age seven.
Many children simply benefit from monitoring growth until their early teenage years, when most permanent teeth have erupted.
When the time is right, treatment options may include:
- traditional braces
- clear braces
- clear aligners such as Invisalign
You can learn more about our Invisalign treatment options here:
➡️ https://www.beautifulsmiles.com/invisalign/
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Evaluation
An early orthodontic evaluation can provide several important benefits.
Prevent worsening bite problems
Some bite issues become more severe as children grow.
Guide jaw development
Early treatment can influence jaw growth while bones are still developing.
Reduce the need for future tooth extractions
Guiding development early may prevent severe crowding later.
Improve facial balance
Proper jaw growth supports healthy facial development.
Reduce risk of dental injuries
Children with protruding teeth are more prone to injury.
Why Families Choose Aronson Orthodontics
Families throughout Southbury, Waterbury, Newtown, Middlebury, Watertown, Oxford, and surrounding Connecticut communities trust Aronson Orthodontics for orthodontic care.
Dr. Ross Aronson is a board-certified orthodontist, a distinction achieved by only a small percentage of orthodontists.
Our practice offers:
- orthodontic treatment for children, teens, and adults
- braces and Invisalign
- flexible payment plans
- personalized care from a single orthodontist throughout treatment
Learn more about Dr. Ross Aronson here:
➡️ https://www.beautifulsmiles.com/dr-ross-aronson/
Schedule a Child Orthodontic Consultation in Southbury or Waterbury CT
If your child is approaching age seven or if you have concerns about their teeth or bite, an orthodontic consultation can provide valuable guidance.
Aronson Orthodontics proudly serves families in:
- Southbury
- Waterbury
- Newtown
- Middlebury
- Watertown
- Oxford
- Naugatuck
- surrounding Connecticut towns
You can schedule a consultation here:
➡️ https://www.beautifulsmiles.com/contact/
Frequently Asked Questions About Kids and Orthodontics
What age should kids get braces?
Most children begin braces between ages 10 and 14, when most permanent teeth have erupted.
Does insurance cover braces for children?
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits. Our office helps families understand their coverage and payment options.
Learn more about payment plans and insurance here:
➡️ https://www.beautifulsmiles.com/financial-information/
Do you need a referral to see an orthodontist?
No referral is required to schedule an orthodontic consultation at Aronson Orthodontics.
Is Invisalign available for kids?
Invisalign may be an option for some younger patients depending on their dental development.
Looking for a Kids Orthodontist Near Southbury, Waterbury, or Newtown?
If you are searching for a board-certified orthodontist for your child in Connecticut, Aronson Orthodontics offers expert orthodontic care for growing smiles.
Early orthodontic evaluation can help ensure your child’s teeth and jaw develop properly and that treatment begins at the ideal time.
? Aronson Orthodontics
Southbury & Waterbury, Connecticut
Braces and Invisalign for children, teens, and adults.
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When Should Kids See an Orthodontist? | Southbury & Waterbury CT
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Learn when children should see an orthodontist and why age 7 is recommended. Aronson Orthodontics provides expert orthodontic care for kids in Southbury, Waterbury, and Newtown CT.
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