When should my child see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that parents schedule their child’s first orthodontic visit by age 7. It’s around this time that their little smiles have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, and because their jaws are still developing, it’s important to monitor how adult teeth come in.

Without growth monitoring, crowding and other potential problems may make orthodontic treatment more challenging later in life.

What is Orthodontic Growth Monitoring?

As your little one grows, your Tripp Leitner Orthodontics doctor can help watch for orthodontic issues before they become more serious, making the work of orthodontics in their later years a lot easier. For example, we’ll monitor:

  • Potential cross-bite and open bite development
  • Obstructive breathing issues—is your child a mouth breather?
  • Position of baby and permanent teeth
  • Dental overcrowding or spacing which could hinder or affect permanent tooth development or position
  • How permanent teeth come in
  • Teeth at risk for injury or decay due to protrusion or overcrowding
  • Harmful habits that may cause orthodontic problems (thumb sucking)
  • Oral hygiene and overall dental health
  • A balanced facial appearance

We Make Orthodontics Fun for Kids

Their free membership in Rising Star includes all kinds of free swag, birthday surprises, extra encouragement, and prizes … like we said: FUN!

Our goal is that, whether it be their own appointments or they’re just tagging along with a sibling, kids love coming to see us while learning how important taking care of their smiles is in the process.

It’s easy (and did we mention FUN?). Schedule your first, free consultation and get ready to blast off!

Sign up for our Rising Star program!

What Our Patients Are Saying

We have been going to Thomas & Leitner Orthodontics for many years now through two Read More
Valerie Hoopingarner
They get the job done and will make sure eveything is done correctly.
Kyle long
I would recommend TL Ortho to anyone considering treatment. I trust Dr. Tripp to always Read More
Allison Moore
great doctors and team!!!
Danielle Edwards
The staff is always friendly and very welcoming ���
Marie Bumgarner
Such a great, caring staff. They obviously love what they do and Dr. Whitney is Read More
Kathy Owen
Every visit is a pleasure with the uber-helpful and enthusiastic staff.
Mickela Mitchell
I have been a patient for almost 2 years, I love coming in to the Read More
Elizabeth Garcia
My daughter, Karlie, just got her braces today. Love all the staff & how welcome Read More
Melissa Peach

Visit Your Local Rock Hill Orthodontist

As your little one grows, your Tripp Leitner Orthodontics care team can help watch for orthodontic issues before they become more serious, making the work of orthodontics in their later years a lot easier.

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