Has the Tooth Fairy Already Visited? It Might Be Time for Your Child’s First Orthodontic Check-Up!

Has the Tooth Fairy Already Visited? It Might Be Time for Your Child’s First Orthodontic Check-Up!

February 4, 2025 | Mars Orthodontics

As parents, we cherish every milestone in our child’s life. From their first wobbly tooth to the excitement of a visit from the tooth fairy, these moments are unforgettable. But did you know that losing those baby teeth is also a sign it might be time for their first orthodontic assessment? Let’s explore why age 7 is often the perfect time to take this next step.

 


 

Why Age 7?

At around age 7, your child’s dental development reaches a crucial stage. By this time:

  • Baby teeth and permanent teeth coexist, providing a clearer picture of dental alignment.
  • Jaw growth patterns become more apparent.
  • Early signs of bite and alignment issues emerge.

This is the ideal time for an orthodontic check-up, allowing specialists to identify potential problems before they escalate. Addressing concerns at this age can pave the way for timely and less invasive orthodontic treatment.

 


 

Early Warning Signs

It’s not always easy to know when your child might need orthodontic attention. Look out for:

  • Early or delayed loss of baby teeth.
  • Difficulty chewing or biting.
  • Thumb- or finger-sucking habits.
  • Mouth breathing.
  • Crowded, protruding, or uneven teeth.
  • Misaligned jaws including underbites or overbites.
  • Ankylosed teeth (where tooth roots are fused to the jawbone).

Even if your child’s teeth appear straight, there may be subtle dental issues beneath the surface. Addressing these early warning signs can make a significant difference.

Child eating an apple:  A happy child with healthy teeth, reflecting the importance of early orthodontic assessments for a confident smile.

 

What Happens at the First Consultation?

During your child’s first orthodontic check-up, we’ll:

  1. Take Diagnostic Records: Photos, X-rays, and digital scans provide a detailed view of their teeth, bite, and jaw alignment.
  2. Comprehensive Assessment: We evaluate your child’s jaw alignment, bite function, and the development of their permanent teeth.
  3. Discuss Oral Habits and Conditions: Conditions like thumb-sucking and ankylosed teeth will be carefully reviewed.
  4. Tailored Treatment Plan: If needed, we’ll outline a personalized plan that guides your child’s dental development and minimizes the need for extensive orthodontic treatments later.

 


 

Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment

While most orthodontic treatments begin between ages 9 and 14, some conditions are easier to address earlier. Early intervention can:

  • Guide proper jaw growth.
  • Create space for permanent teeth to emerge naturally.
  • Lower the risk of injury to protruding teeth.
  • Correct harmful oral habits like thumb-sucking.
  • Address bite concerns like underbites, overbites and crossbites early.
  • Boost your child’s confidence and self-esteem.

For many families, an early orthodontic assessment provides peace of mind and a roadmap for future dental care.

 


 

Orthodontics: More Than Straight Teeth

Orthodontics isn’t just about aesthetics. A healthy bite plays a vital role in:

  • Proper chewing and speech development.
  • Long-term oral health and hygiene.
  • Balanced facial development.

By addressing dental alignment concerns early, you help your child build a solid foundation for a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles.

Child at orthodontic check-up: A young child during an orthodontic check-up, highlighting the importance of early assessments for healthy smiles.
Phone

07 2111 7999

Email

smile@marsorthodontics.com.au

Address

Shop 14, Southpoint,
275 Grey St, South Brisbane

Get in Touch

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Your Next Steps

If you’re ready to book your child’s first orthodontic assessment, click the “BOOK YOUR COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION" button below. If you have any questions, feel free to Contact Us. We look forward to hearing from you soon and helping your child achieve a lifetime of beautiful, healthy smiles!

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