One of the most common questions parents in Chico ask us is:
“When should my child get braces?”
The answer may surprise you—it's earlier than most people think.
The Best Age for an Orthodontic Evaluation
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should have their first orthodontic evaluation at age 7.
Why so young? Because at age 7:
- Baby teeth and adult teeth are both present
- The jaw is still growing
- Early issues can be caught before they become bigger problems
- Orthodontists can guide jaw development when it matters most
This doesn’t mean every child gets braces at age 7, but it does allow Dr. Graydon Carr to monitor growth and intervene at the right time.
Signs Your Child May Need Braces
You may notice:
- Crowded or crooked teeth
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Bite issues (overbite, underbite, crossbite)
- Teeth that don’t come together
- Mouth breathing
- Difficulty chewing
Even if everything looks “fine,” only a trained orthodontist can identify early jaw or bite concerns.
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment
Early treatment can:
- Reduce the need for extractions later
- Improve facial growth and symmetry
- Create space for adult teeth
- Prevent trauma to protruded front teeth
- Reduce treatment time as a teen
- Boost confidence during childhood
Why Chico Parents Trust Carr Orthodontics
At Carr Orthodontics, we offer:
- Complimentary growth-check visits
- Kid-friendly treatment options
- Clear braces, metal braces, and early expanders
- A warm, welcoming environment for families
We love watching Chico kids grow with confidence as their smiles develop.
Schedule Your Child’s First Orthodontic Check
If your child is around age seven—or you're noticing bite concerns—schedule a free evaluation at Carr Orthodontics. Early guidance leads to better smiles.
