When to Start Orthodontics and Dentistry in Monrovia

Every parent dreams of seeing their child grow up with a confident, healthy smile. But did you know that early orthodontic care plays a vital role in shaping that smile? Knowing when to start orthodontics and dentistry can make a significant difference in your child’s oral development, helping prevent complex dental issues later in life. Early detection allows the orthodontist to guide jaw growth, ensure proper tooth alignment, and maintain healthy bite function — all before major problems arise.

In our previous blog, we discussed the best guidelines to ensure healthy teeth growth in children. In this blog, we will go through the stages and signs that indicate that children must undergo an orthodontic evaluation.

5 Stages That Indicate When to Start Orthodontic Care

So, how do you know when it’s the right time for your child to see a specialist? Here are five important stages or signs by age that indicate an orthodontic evaluation might be necessary.

1. Age 3–5: Early Jaw and Bite Development

   At this stage, children’s baby teeth play a crucial role in setting the foundation for adult teeth. While their adorable grins may look perfect, subtle signs can signal early orthodontic needs.

   Key signs to watch for:

   • Persistent thumb sucking or pacifier use beyond age 3
   • Mouth breathing or difficulty closing lips
   • Teeth that don’t meet properly when biting
   • Noticeable gaps or crowding in baby teeth
   • Difficulty chewing or speaking clearly

   Although it may seem early, a visit to the dentist at this age can help detect jaw growth problems and prevent misalignment before the emergence of permanent teeth.

2. Age 6–8: Mixed Dentition Begins

   This is the time when baby teeth start falling out and permanent teeth begin to appear. Orthodontists often call this the “mixed dentition” stage, and it’s one of the best times for an initial orthodontic assessment.

   Signs your child may need an evaluation:

   • Early or late loss of baby teeth
   • Crowded or crooked incoming teeth
   • Front teeth protruding forward
   • Difficulty biting or chewing food evenly
   • Jaw clicking or popping sounds

   An early evaluation from an orthodontist in Monrovia helps identify whether your child may benefit from interceptive orthodontics — simple treatments that guide teeth into better alignment as they grow.

3. Age 9–11: Developing Bite and Growth Patterns

   As your child’s facial structure develops, you may start noticing more visible changes in their bite and smile. This is also the ideal age range for phase-one orthodontic treatment if it’s needed.

   Look for these warning signs:

   • Noticeable overbite or underbite
   • Crossbite (upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth)
   • Open bite (front teeth don’t touch when the mouth closes)
   • Teeth grinding at night
   • Asymmetrical facial appearance

   Addressing these issues early prevents severe misalignment and reduces the need for extractions or complex treatment later. Regular visits to the dentist can help monitor these changes and catch concerns early.

4. Age 12–14: Full Permanent Dentition

   By this stage, most permanent teeth have erupted, and it’s typically when braces or aligners are introduced. Growth spurts also make this an ideal time to correct jaw alignment and spacing.

   Watch for these indicators:

   • Crooked or overlapping teeth
   • Difficulty cleaning between teeth due to crowding
   • Jaw pain or discomfort
   • Gaps that affect smile aesthetics
   • Speech issues caused by misaligned teeth

   At this age, orthodontic treatments from a dentist near you in Monrovia are more efficient since the jawbone is still developing, allowing for smoother adjustments and faster results.

5. Age 15–17: Refinement and Retention

   As teenagers grow older, final orthodontic evaluations help ensure that earlier treatments have been successful or determine if minor refinements are needed.

   Potential signs for further evaluation:

   • Teeth shifting after previous treatment
   • Jaw clicking or locking during chewing
   • Impacted wisdom teeth affecting alignment
   • Noticeable relapse or crowding
   • Difficulty maintaining oral hygiene due to spacing issues

   These years are critical for maintaining results and ensuring long-term dental stability. Regular checkups and retainers play a major role in preserving that perfect smile.

Conclusion:

Recognizing when to start orthodontic care is one of the best things you can do for your child’s oral health. By understanding the key stages and signs, you can make informed decisions that set the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles. If you’re wondering when to schedule your child’s first evaluation, don’t wait — visit a trusted dentistry in Monrovia today to ensure their smile grows beautifully and naturally. Call now at 626-445-6666!