When Is the Right Time to Visit an Orthodontist?

Knowing when to visit an orthodontist isn't always obvious, especially when you're unsure what to look for. Whether it’s for yourself, your child, or another family member, timing can make a big difference in ensuring proper dental development and care. Here's how to determine the right time to schedule that visit for local orthodontics in Johnson City, TN.

Early Orthodontic Care for Children

Many parents wonder when they should first take their child to see an orthodontist. A good rule of thumb is that a child’s first visit should be around the age of 7, according to the American Association of Orthodontists. This might seem young, especially if their baby teeth haven’t fully fallen out yet, but early visits are all about checking growth and development.

Why at That Age?  

At age 7, your child’s jaw and teeth are still growing, and an orthodontist can spot potential issues before they become bigger problems. Early evaluations allow them to address misalignment or overcrowding issues while the jaw is still flexible and the bones are still developing. Starting early treatment can prevent the need for more invasive procedures later on.

While not every child will need braces or other treatments at this age, an initial visit allows to create a monitoring plan, so they can intervene at the right time if needed. In some cases, early treatment (often called Phase 1 treatment) might involve spacers, retainers, or partial braces to guide the teeth and jaw into the correct position.

Signs Your Child Might Need Early Orthodontic Treatment

Even if your child isn’t showing obvious signs of needing braces, there are certain things to watch for as their teeth develop. These early signs can indicate that orthodontic care might be necessary:

• Crowded or Crooked Teeth: If your child’s teeth are coming in at odd angles or overlapping, it could be a sign that their mouth doesn’t have enough space for all their teeth.

• Early or Late Loss of Baby Teeth: Losing baby teeth too early or holding onto them for longer than expected can impact the alignment of adult teeth.

• Difficulty Chewing or Biting: If your child struggles to chew properly or if their bite doesn’t seem to close correctly, it may be a sign of an alignment issue.

• Mouth Breathing: Constant mouth breathing (especially while sleeping) can be a sign that their jaw alignment isn’t ideal.

• Thumb-sucking After Age 5: Prolonged thumb-sucking can push teeth out of alignment and affect jaw growth.

• Jaws that Shift or Make Noise: If your child’s jaw seems to shift when they open and close their mouth or makes popping or clicking sounds, it could be a sign of a misalignment.

If you notice any of these issues, it might be worth scheduling a visit with a local orthodontist to discuss treatment options and make a plan for the future.

Orthodontic Care for Teenagers

For many teens, getting braces or other orthodontic treatment is almost a rite of passage. It’s common to see orthodontists starting treatment for teenagers once most or all of their adult teeth have come in. This is typically between the ages of 12 and 14, though it can vary.

During the teenage years, the jaw is still growing, but adult teeth have fully emerged. This makes it an ideal time for orthodontic care because orthodontists can correct misalignments while the teeth and jaw are still somewhat malleable. Traditional braces, clear aligners, and other appliances can guide the teeth into proper alignment.

Signs It’s Time to Bring Your Teen to the Orthodontist

• Overcrowded Teeth: Teeth that are crowded or overlapping can make it difficult to brush and floss properly, leading to long-term dental health issues.

• Gaps Between Teeth: Excessive spacing or gaps between teeth can affect your teen’s smile and dental function.

• Overbite or Underbite: If your teen’s upper or lower teeth extend too far beyond the opposite row, they might have a bite issue that can be corrected with orthodontic treatment.

• Speech Difficulties: Misaligned teeth can sometimes cause speech issues or difficulties pronouncing certain words.

• Jaw Pain or Clicking: As with younger children, any signs of jaw discomfort or unusual sounds when opening or closing the mouth could indicate an alignment problem that needs treatment.

In many cases, teens feel anxious about getting braces because they worry about how it will affect their appearance. Fortunately, with options like clear braces or aligners, orthodontic care doesn’t have to mean a mouth full of metal for years. These modern treatments can provide the same results as traditional braces, often in a more discreet and comfortable way.

Orthodontic Care for Adults

Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for kids and teens — adults can benefit from it, too. More adults are seeking orthodontic care than ever before, and the availability of clear aligners, more comfortable braces, and quicker treatments have made it easier for adults to get the smile they’ve always wanted.

Adults might choose orthodontic treatment for a variety of reasons. Some never had braces as a child, while others are looking to correct shifting that occurred after childhood treatment. In other cases, adults seek orthodontic care to address jaw pain, headaches, or other issues related to misalignment.

Reasons an Adult Might Want to Visit an Orthodontist

• Shifting Teeth: Even if you had braces as a child, your teeth can shift over time, especially if you didn’t consistently wear a retainer. This can cause crowding, gaps, or bite issues.

• Jaw Pain or Discomfort: Misaligned teeth can lead to headaches, jaw pain, and other discomforts that can be resolved with orthodontic treatment.

• Aesthetic Concerns: Many adults seek orthodontic treatment to improve the appearance of their smile, addressing crooked teeth, gaps, or uneven spacing.

• Difficulty Cleaning Teeth: Misaligned teeth can make it harder to brush and floss effectively, which may increase the risk of cavities and gum disease.

Whether you’re considering braces or aligners for cosmetic reasons or to improve your overall oral health, visiting an orthodontist as an adult is always an option. There’s no age limit for orthodontic care, and many adults find that the investment in their smile is well worth it.

What to Expect at Your First Orthodontic Visit

Whether it’s for your child, teen, or yourself, the first orthodontic visit is all about evaluation and planning. The orthodontist will take a close look at your teeth, jaw, and bite using X-rays, digital scans, and physical exams. They’ll discuss any concerns you have and provide recommendations for treatment, if necessary.

For children and teens, this first visit might result in a “wait and see” approach, where the orthodontist monitors their growth and development before recommending any action. For adults, the orthodontist will likely discuss different treatment options and work with you to create a plan that fits your lifestyle and goals.

Ready to Schedule an Appointment for Local Orthodontics in Johnson City, TN?

At Martin Dentistry, we’re here to help you and your family achieve the healthy smiles you deserve. Our experienced orthodontists work with patients of all ages, providing personalized care tailored to your needs. If you’re ready to explore orthodontic options for yourself or a family member, schedule a consultation with us today!