As a parent, you want the best for your child—especially when it comes to their health and confidence. One important part of that puzzle is their smile. At Summit Dental & Orthodontics in Layton, Utah, we get this question all the time: “When should my child first see an orthodontist?”
Here’s everything you need to know about early orthodontic care and how it can set your child up for a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles.
What Age Should My Child First See an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. That might sound early, but there’s a good reason for it. By this age, most children have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, which allows an orthodontist to spot developing issues early.
At Summit Dental & Orthodontics, we believe early evaluations can make a big difference. Even if your child doesn’t need braces right away, an early assessment helps us monitor their growth and development to plan the right treatment at the right time.
Signs Your Child Might Need Braces
Every child grows differently, but there are a few signs parents can look out for:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Overbite, underbite, or crossbite
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing
- Thumb sucking beyond age 5
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Speech problems or lisps
If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, it might be time to schedule a consultation with our orthodontic team.
What Happens During an Orthodontic Evaluation?
At Summit Dental & Orthodontics, we make orthodontic evaluations simple, educational, and stress-free.
During the visit, we:
- Take digital X-rays and photos of your child’s teeth and jaw
- Examine their bite and alignment
- Discuss any noticeable issues and whether treatment is needed now or later
There’s no pressure and no pain—just friendly guidance from experts who care about your child’s long-term health and happiness.
Benefits of Seeing A Child Orthodontist in Layton, Utah
Catching orthodontic problems early can:
- Shorten future treatment time
- Prevent more serious issues from developing
- Improve facial symmetry and jaw development
- Boost your child’s self-esteem
- Potentially reduce the need for tooth extractions or surgery later on
Even if your child doesn’t need braces yet, early intervention gives them the best shot at a healthy, confident smile.
Why Choose Summit Dental & Orthodontics in Layton, Utah?
We’re proud to be Davis County’s highest-reviewed orthodontic office and a trusted choice for families throughout Layton, Kaysville, Syracuse, and beyond.
Here’s what makes us different:
- Comprehensive dental and orthodontic care under one roof
- A gentle, patient-first approach that kids and parents love
- Flexible financing options and transparent pricing
- Convenient location just off I-15
- A friendly team that treats you like family
Whether it’s your child’s first dental visit or they’re ready for braces, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Ready to Schedule Your Child’s Free Orthodontic Consultation?
Early care can make a big difference—and it starts with one easy visit.
Call Summit Dental & Orthodontics at (801) 547-8800 or book online here to schedule your child’s complimentary orthodontic evaluation today. Let’s build a lifetime of smiles together!
Serving Layton, Kaysville, Clearfield, Syracuse, and all of Davis County with expert dental and orthodontic care.