When your child should see an orthodontist

Pediatric Dentist Michelle Kelman, DDS, shares advice for parents on what age is recommended to schedule you child's first orthodontist appointment
When Should I Take My Child To See And Orthodontist
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When your child should see an orthodontist

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The American Academy of Orthodontics recommends that your child be seen by an orthodontist at age seven. Your pediatric dentist will help you determine if that's the right age. Your child should see an orthodontist if; there is any problems with the occlusion, which is how the teeth bite together; with spacing for the teeth, if the teeth have enough room to come in, if there's any crowding; and, of course, if there is any habits that may have formed discomfort in the mouth. For example, if a child is grinding, if the muscles aren't coming together properly, or if the child has a history of pacifier or digit sucking. That can all change the shape of the mouth. Once your child has more grown-up teeth in the mouth, your pediatric dentist will help determine if it's the right time to see an orthodontist. The number age seven is the average age to start getting grown-up teeth in, however, it is different for everyone.

Pediatric Dentist Michelle Kelman, DDS, shares advice for parents on what age is recommended to schedule you child's first orthodontist appointment

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Michelle Kelman, DDS

Pediatric Dentist

Dr. Michelle M. Kelman is a specialist in pediatric and adolescent dentistry for healthy children and children with complex medical history. Dr. Michelle is on the Pediatric Surgical Team and Craniofacial Team at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and on faculty at the UCLA School of Dentistry, Pediatrics. Dr. Michelle has lectured internationally and taught continuing education courses on topics including pediatric patient behavior management and advancements in pediatric dentistry. These advancements include everything from equipment technology to introducing complementary and alternative therapies for your child's health needs. Active in the community, Dr. Michelle has offered numerous pediatric oral healthcare presentations to community groups, professional organizations and various healthcare professionals around the country with a special emphasis on pediatric behavior management and dental treatment using both traditional and natural methods for children with various medical conditions.

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Transcription: 
The American Academy of Orthodontics recommends that your child be seen by an orthodontist at age seven. Your pediatric dentist will help you determine if that's the right age. Your child should see an orthodontist if; there is any problems with the occlusion, which is how the teeth bite together; with spacing for the teeth, if the teeth have enough room to come in, if there's any crowding; and, of course, if there is any habits that may have formed discomfort in the mouth. For example, if a child is grinding, if the muscles aren't coming together properly, or if the child has a history of pacifier or digit sucking. That can all change the shape of the mouth. Once your child has more grown-up teeth in the mouth, your pediatric dentist will help determine if it's the right time to see an orthodontist. The number age seven is the average age to start getting grown-up teeth in, however, it is different for everyone.