When Should My Child See an Orthodontist? Advice from Your Allen Orthodontics Team

As a parent, you want what’s best for your child’s health—including their teeth. A question we get often is: when should a child see an orthodontist for the first time? If you're searching for Allen Orthodontics, you're already thinking ahead. That’s a great start.

Whether your child is just starting to lose baby teeth or has some crowding, Kraus Orthodontics is here to help you know what to do and when to do it.

Allen Orthodontics

What Allen Orthodontics Recommends for the First Checkup

The American Association of Orthodontists says kids should have their first orthodontic visit by age 7. That may sound early, but it’s a smart time to check in. By age 7, most kids have a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth, which helps us see how their smile is coming together.

This early visit helps us find small problems before they become big ones. Just because your child comes in doesn’t mean they’ll need braces right away. In fact, many kids don’t need treatment yet. But it’s helpful to have a professional take a look and make a plan for the future.

Why It’s Good to Start with Allen Orthodontics Early

Early visits help us get to know your child and track their growth over time. We can spot issues before they get worse and plan the right time for treatment. Here’s what early visits can help with:

  • Guiding jaw growth while kids are still growing
  • Protecting teeth that stick out and might get hurt
  • Helping stop habits like thumb sucking
  • Making sure there’s enough space for adult teeth

Even if your child doesn’t need treatment right away, we’ll keep an eye on their smile and let you know if anything changes.

Signs Your Child Might Need to See Allen Orthodontics

Sometimes, you might notice things that make you wonder if it’s time for a visit. Here are a few signs that a checkup could be helpful:

  • Baby teeth falling out too early or too late
  • Trouble chewing or biting
  • Breathing mostly through the mouth
  • Thumb sucking past age 5
  • Teeth that are very crowded or spaced out
  • Jaws that make clicking sounds or look uneven

At Kraus Orthodontics, we’ll gently check your child’s smile and let you know what’s going on. There’s no pressure to start anything unless it’s needed.

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What Happens at the First Visit to Our Allen Orthodontics Office

We want your child’s first visit to be easy and comfortable. At our Allen office, we’ve created a space that’s calm and welcoming. Here’s what to expect:

  1. A friendly hello and tour of the office
  2. Digital pictures of your child’s teeth (no messy impressions!)
  3. A simple, gentle exam from Dr. Kraus
  4. A chat with you about what we found and what to do next

We’ll answer all your questions and give you a plan—whether it’s to come back later or to start something soon.

Treatments Offered at Kraus Orthodontics

At Kraus Orthodontics, we offer a range of orthodontic treatments designed to help kids, teens, and even adults achieve healthy, confident smiles. Every patient is unique, and we work closely with you to choose the right treatment based on your child’s age, dental development, and goals.

Here are the main treatment options we provide at our Allen office:

  • Clear Aligners: These removable, nearly invisible trays straighten teeth gently and effectively. They’re great for busy, active families and ideal for kids and teens who want a low-profile treatment option.
  • Early Interceptive Orthodontics: For younger children, we may recommend early treatments that guide jaw growth and make space for incoming permanent teeth. This can help prevent more serious issues down the line.
  • Teen Treatment Plans: We design flexible, personalized plans that work with your teen’s schedule, activities, and goals. Whether it’s for minor alignment or more complex bite correction, we’re here to help.
  • Retainers and Long-Term Monitoring: After treatment, we provide custom retainers to help maintain results and monitor your child’s smile over time.

Our team at Kraus Orthodontics will explain every option and help you choose the best path forward. No matter the treatment, we focus on comfort, convenience, and long-lasting results.

We’re Here to Help Every Step of the Way

You don’t have to figure all of this out alone. At Kraus Orthodontics, we’ll support your family through each step. From the first visit to the final retainer, we’ll be by your side.

We explain things clearly, check progress regularly, and answer your questions anytime. Whether your child is just getting started or already in treatment, we’re here for you.

Allen Orthodontics

Allen and Beyond: Orthodontic Care for Your Whole Community

We love helping families in Allen, but we also care for patients in Leonard and Blue Ridge. No matter which office you visit, you’ll get friendly service, expert advice, and clear aligner treatment that works.

Let’s work together to give your child a smile they’ll be proud of. Book your child’s free consultation at our Allen office today. We’ll help you feel confident and ready for the road ahead.