Why Early Orthodontic Visits Matter: What Every Parent Should Know

As a parent, you do everything you can to set your child up for a healthy, happy future—and that includes their smile. While braces and aligners might seem like something to think about in the teen years, the truth is that orthodontic care should start much earlier. Early evaluations allow us to catch small issues before they become big problems, helping your child avoid more complicated (and costly) treatments later on. At Quest Orthodontics, Dr. Patel and our team are here to make sure your child’s smile gets the right attention at the right time—with expert care, a friendly environment, and a focus on long-term health.

So, when should your child see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first visit by age 7. By this age, your child likely has a mix of baby and permanent teeth, which makes it the perfect time for Dr. Patel to spot any potential concerns with jaw growth, tooth alignment, or bite issues—even if everything looks fine on the surface.

What are some signs your child might need an orthodontic checkup?

While every child is different, here are some common things to look out for:

• Early or late loss of baby teeth: Losing baby teeth too soon—or holding onto them for too long—can affect how permanent teeth come in.
  
  

• Difficulty chewing or biting: Trouble eating certain foods may be a sign that the teeth or jaws aren't aligning properly.
  
  

• Mouth breathing, especially at night: Breathing through the mouth instead of the nose can point to airway issues and may affect jaw and facial development.
  
  

• Persistent thumb sucking beyond age 4: This habit can impact the shape of the mouth and how the teeth come together.
  
  

• Crowded or overlapping teeth: Teeth that don’t have enough space can lead to alignment problems and make cleaning more difficult.
  
  

• Jaws that pop, shift, or seem off-center when opening or closing: These can be early signs of bite or jaw growth issues that may get worse over time.
  
  

• Teeth that stick out too far forward or backward: Protruding or recessed teeth can increase the risk of injury and may signal an imbalance in jaw growth.
  
  

• A bite that seems too deep or doesn’t come together properly: If the top and bottom teeth don’t line up well, it can affect chewing, speech, and long-term dental health.
  
  

• Snoring, restless sleep, or signs of airway obstruction: These symptoms may be connected to how your child’s jaws and facial bones are developing, and can often be improved with early orthodontic care.
  
  

If you’ve noticed any of these, it’s a great time to schedule a consultation with Dr. Patel. Even if treatment isn’t needed right away, early monitoring allows us to guide your child’s growth, catch developing issues early, and create a plan for a healthy, confident smile.

Why choose Dr. Patel at Quest Orthodontics?

Dr. Patel is a board-certified orthodontist and a multi-year award-winning doctor known for his advanced training and gentle, personalized care. He’s passionate about making orthodontic visits positive and stress-free for both kids and parents alike.

And the best part? Your child’s first consultation is completely complimentary. We’ll give you peace of mind and a clear understanding of what (if anything) needs to happen next—no pressure, just honest advice from a trusted expert.

Ready to take the first step?

Whether you're in Decatur or Sandy Springs, Quest Orthodontics is here to help your child smile with confidence—now and in the future.  Schedule your complimentary consultation today!