As a parent, you want your child to grow up healthy, confident, and smiling—and that often includes making sure their teeth are developing properly. But one of the most common questions we hear at David McInnis Orthodontics in Easley, SC is:
“When should my child start braces?”
The answer? It depends. But there are some general guidelines that can help you understand what to look for—and when to schedule that first orthodontic check-up.
What Age Should My Child See an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this stage, your child will have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth, making it easier for an orthodontist to spot developing issues with alignment, bite, or jaw growth.
This doesn’t mean your child will need braces at 7—but it allows us to monitor their growth and intervene at the right time if necessary.
At our Easley office, we often begin early monitoring with young patients and keep an eye on changes over time. This proactive approach can reduce the need for more extensive treatment later on.
Common Signs Your Child May Need Braces
Here are some signs Easley parents can watch for that may indicate your child could benefit from braces or early orthodontic treatment:
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Crowded, misplaced, or blocked-out teeth
- Thumb-sucking after age 4 or 5
- Jaws that pop, shift, or make sounds
- Teeth that don’t come together properly when the mouth is closed
- Mouth breathing or speech difficulties
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it’s a good idea to schedule a free consultation to determine if treatment is needed—and when the best time to begin would be.
Early Treatment vs. Later Treatment
Some children benefit from early orthodontic treatment (also known as Phase 1), which typically begins between ages 7 and 10. This phase is designed to address specific issues with jaw development, bite alignment, or space for incoming adult teeth.
Later, in their teen years, they may begin Phase 2 treatment, which usually involves braces or Invisalign to fine-tune tooth alignment and bite.
Early treatment doesn’t always eliminate the need for braces later, but it can make future treatment faster, easier, and more effective.
Why Choose David McInnis Orthodontics in Easley?
At David McInnis Orthodontics, we’re proud to be a trusted provider for families throughout Easley, SC, and surrounding communities. Our team understands how important your child’s smile is—and how to make the process smooth, stress-free, and even fun.
We offer:
- Free consultations for kids of all ages
- Personalized treatment plans with modern options
- Clear communication with parents at every step
- Flexible scheduling and payment plans
Our Easley location makes it convenient for local families to access high-quality orthodontic care without the long drive or wait.
Schedule Your Child’s Free Orthodontic Consultation in Easley, SC
If your child is approaching age 7—or showing signs they may need braces—now is the perfect time to schedule a free consultation with our friendly team in Easley.
We’ll evaluate their smile, explain what we see, and let you know whether treatment is needed now, later, or at all.