One of the most common questions among parents is: at what age should I take my child to the orthodontist? The answer may be surprising: the ideal orthodontic check-up should take place around the age of 6 to 7, when the first permanent molars begin to come in and the mixed dentition stage (baby and permanent teeth) makes it possible to detect potential issues.
This does not mean that all children need treatment at that age, but an early assessment can prevent or correct problems before they worsen, avoiding more complex treatments in the future. Bite problems, lack of space, habits such as thumb sucking, or mouth breathing can be addressed much more easily if detected in time.
In some cases, an interceptive or functional treatment is recommended to guide the development of the jaws. In others, it is simply advisable to monitor progress and act later, once all the permanent teeth have erupted (generally between the ages of 11 and 13).
The good news is that orthodontics has no age limit. More and more adults are improving their smiles with orthodontic treatment, whether traditional or invisible.
At Eva Zahíno Dental Clinic, we carry out comprehensive orthodontic studies for both children and adults, using state-of-the-art technology. If you have questions about your child’s dental development, or if you are thinking about straightening your smile, book your appointment with us and we will advise you with complete honesty and a close, caring approach.
