Why early orthodontic assessment could be the best gift you give your child’s smile
When it comes to our children, timing matters. Whether it’s spotting their first tooth or scheduling their first eye test, we tend to keep a close watch on their development. But there’s one milestone that often flies under the radar: a child’s first visit to the orthodontist.
At The London Lingual Orthodontic Clinic, we often meet parents surprised to learn that the ideal age for a first orthodontic assessment is around seven. It’s earlier than many people expect, but for good reason.
During these early years, a child’s jaw is still growing, and the adult teeth are beginning to come through. That means it’s a unique window of opportunity when we can gently guide how the teeth and jaws develop and, in some cases, prevent more complex problems from arising later on.
A proactive, not reactive, approach
Orthodontics has traditionally been associated with teenagers and fixed braces. But interceptive orthodontics takes a different approach. It’s about catching small issues before they become big ones, such as crowding, jaw misalignment, or bite irregularities.
Sometimes, we see children whose lower jaw grows faster than the upper jaw, or vice versa. Left unaddressed, this can lead to bite issues that might one day require surgery. But when we catch it early, gentle treatments, such as expansion devices or functional appliances, can help balance things out naturally as the child grows.
Building confidence along the way
Of course, orthodontics isn’t just about function; it’s also about confidence. We see the difference a healthy smile can make in a child’s life, especially during those formative years when self-esteem develops. For many children, early treatment means feeling more confident in school photos, social settings, and everyday interactions.
We also know that many parents worry about whether orthodontic treatment will be uncomfortable or overwhelming for their child. That’s why we focus on creating a calm, welcoming environment at the Clinic, one where children (and parents) feel listened to, reassured, and fully informed about every step.
What happens at the first appointment?
An early consultation at The London Lingual Orthodontic Clinic is gentle and thorough. Dr Asif Chatoo will carry out a full examination, use digital imaging to assess jaw growth and tooth development, and speak with you and your child about any concerns you may have, whether that’s thumb sucking, breathing habits, or the way the teeth are coming in.
In many cases, no immediate treatment is needed, but if it is, the earlier we start, the more options we typically have, and the more we can do to avoid more invasive procedures later on.
Giving your child the best start
Every child is different, and so is every smile. But what they all have in common is that early care gives us the chance to support not just their oral health but their long-term well-being.
If your child is between the ages of 7 and 10, or if you’ve noticed anything unusual about their teeth or bite, it may be time to book a consultation. We’re here to help you make informed decisions, with no pressure, just expert advice and a caring approach.
We’d love to welcome you to the Clinic.
