Your child’s first orthodontic appointment can feel like a big step—for both of you. Whether it was recommended by your family dentist or you’ve noticed early signs of alignment issues, knowing what to expect can ease any uncertainty and set your child up for success.
Today’s orthodontic care is designed to be gentle, informative, and personalized. It’s not just about braces—it’s about assessing your child’s growth, identifying potential issues early, and creating a plan that fits their unique needs.
If you’re a parent in Los Angeles considering orthodontic treatment for your child, this guide will walk you through exactly what happens at that first visit—and why early evaluation matters.
When Should Children First See an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. That might seem early, especially if your child still has baby teeth—but this timing is important.
At this stage, orthodontists can identify how the jaw is developing, how permanent teeth are erupting, and whether early intervention might prevent more complex treatment later.
You don’t need a referral to schedule an evaluation, and not every child will need immediate treatment. In fact, most early visits are simply about monitoring.
What to Expect at the First Visit
The initial consultation typically lasts about 45 minutes to an hour and includes several key steps. Here’s what the process usually looks like:
1. Warm Welcome and Patient History
- You’ll fill out paperwork about your child’s dental and medical history.
- A team member will review your concerns and discuss any referrals from your family dentist.
2. Digital Imaging and Photos
- A series of images may be taken to get a full picture of your child’s teeth, bite, and jaw alignment.
- This could include panoramic X-rays and intraoral scans using advanced digital tools—no messy impressions required.
3. Orthodontic Exam
- The orthodontist will examine your child’s mouth, jaw movement, bite, and tooth development.
- They’ll check for common issues such as:
- Crowding or spacing
- Crossbite, underbite, or overbite
- Delayed eruption of permanent teeth
- Jaw growth imbalances
4. Discussion and Recommendations
- The doctor will walk you through their findings in easy-to-understand terms.
- You’ll discuss whether treatment is needed now or later—and what that might involve.
- If your child is a candidate for early intervention, you’ll learn about two-phase treatment options (more on that below).
5. Q&A and Next Steps
- You’ll have time to ask questions about treatment options, costs, and scheduling.
- If no treatment is needed yet, the team may recommend periodic monitoring every 6–12 months.
What Orthodontists Look for in Young Patients
Early evaluations aren’t about rushing into braces—they’re about catching developmental concerns before they become bigger problems. Some common conditions identified in early childhood include:
- Bite misalignment — When the teeth don’t line up properly, leading to issues with chewing or speaking
- Jaw irregularities — Early signs of overdeveloped or underdeveloped jaws
- Thumb sucking or oral habits — Behaviors that may be impacting facial development
- Crowding — Not enough space for permanent teeth to come in correctly
- Spacing — Gaps caused by missing teeth or natural jaw spacing
- Eruption patterns — Monitoring how baby teeth fall out and permanent teeth emerge
The earlier these issues are identified, the more options you have to correct or guide development gently over time.
Talking to Your Child About Their First Visit
It’s totally normal for kids to feel a little nervous about visiting a new kind of doctor. As a parent, your reassurance goes a long way.
Here are a few ways to make them feel more at ease:
- Frame it as a check-up — Emphasize that it’s just a way to make sure their smile is healthy and growing the right way.
- Highlight the cool tech — Kids often enjoy seeing digital scans or X-ray machines. Let them know it’s quick and easy.
- Avoid scary language — Skip words like “braces,” “drilling,” or “pain,” especially if treatment isn’t needed right away.
- Plan a treat after — A visit to the park or their favorite smoothie shop can turn the day into a positive experience.
What If Treatment Is Needed?
If treatment is recommended, your orthodontist will walk you through the options and timing. This may include:
- Early interceptive treatment — Often part of a two-phase approach to guide jaw development
- Simple appliances — Such as expanders or retainers to correct bite or spacing
- Monitoring only — In many cases, orthodontists recommend waiting until more adult teeth erupt
Even if your child doesn’t need braces now, early care planning can set the stage for a faster, more effective treatment when the time is right.
Why Los Angeles Families Are Prioritizing Early Orthodontics
In a city as fast-paced and image-conscious as Los Angeles, parents are increasingly proactive about their child’s oral health and appearance. But it’s not just about looks—early orthodontic evaluations can save time, money, and discomfort in the long run.
By starting early, you’re giving your child access to:
- Smoother treatment outcomes — Early guidance can reduce the need for extractions or surgery later
- Shorter treatment times — Identifying and correcting issues early can simplify future care
- Greater confidence — Addressing alignment issues early can support healthy self-esteem during formative years
Final Thoughts: Your Child’s First Visit Is a Step Toward Lifelong Confidence
Bringing your child to the orthodontist doesn’t have to be stressful. In fact, it’s often the beginning of a confident, healthy smile—and a great relationship with their care team.
Whether treatment is needed now or simply monitored for later, the first visit is about creating a plan that supports your child’s unique growth and development.
Ready to Schedule Your Child’s First Orthodontic Visit?
If you’re in the Los Angeles area and want to make sure your child’s smile is on the right track, we’re here to help. Our team specializes in kid-friendly care and early evaluations that put families at ease.
Let’s make your child’s first orthodontic visit a positive experience from the start. Contact us today to book their consultation.