How to Prepare for Your Child’s First Orthodontic Visit: A Parent’s Checklist
A Calm and Confident Start to Your Child’s Orthodontic Journey
Your child’s first orthodontic visit is an important step in supporting their long-term oral health. Many parents feel unsure about what to expect, especially when juggling school, activities, and busy family schedules. The good news is that the first visit is not a commitment to braces. It is simply a diagnostic check-up that helps the doctor understand how your child’s teeth and jaws are developing.
This visit creates a baseline that guides future decisions and helps identify early changes that may support healthier growth. With a little preparation, you can make the experience smooth, positive, and stress-free for both you and your child.
Why Age Seven Is the Ideal Time for a First Evaluation
Orthodontists recommend that children have their first evaluation around age seven. At this stage, children usually have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth. This is a valuable window where the doctor can spot early signs of crowding, spacing, jaw growth concerns, or bite patterns that may need attention.
Early evaluations do not always lead to treatment. Many children simply begin a monitoring phase. When early guidance is recommended, it can help reduce the severity of future issues and support healthier development as permanent teeth come in.
What the Orthodontist Looks for in an Early Visit
A first visit helps identify important developmental clues, including:
Alignment and Spacing
- Signs of crowding or protrusion
• Premature loss of baby teeth
• Delayed or impacted permanent teeth
Bite and Jaw Growth
- Underbites, overbites, open bites, or crossbites
• Jaw imbalances that may affect chewing or comfort
• Growth patterns that may benefit from early guidance
Oral Habits
- Thumb or finger sucking
• Tongue thrusting
• Mouth breathing
• Teeth grinding or clenching
The doctor may also examine your child’s airway, breathing patterns, and other concerns that may arise during development. These evaluations help guide future decisions and support your child’s comfort and confidence.
Parent Checklist: What to Bring and How to Prepare
A. Logistical Preparation
Bringing the right information helps the orthodontic team learn about your child’s health and makes your visit more efficient.
Important items to bring
• Dental insurance card or policy details
• Your child’s medical history, including medications or allergies
• Recent dental X-rays from the past 6 to 12 months (if available)
• Any notes about past dental concerns or habits you have observed
• A written list of questions you want to ask during the appointment
This information helps the doctor create a personalized plan and allows the team to check insurance benefits before discussing any future treatment options.
B. Emotional Preparation for Your Child
A child’s first orthodontic appointment should feel calm and welcoming. A few simple steps can help your child feel more at ease.
- Explain that the visit is a check-up, not a treatment day
• Let them know the orthodontist will look at their teeth and may take pictures or a scan
• Encourage them to ask questions during the visit
• Share any dental anxieties with the team ahead of time
• Bring a small comfort item for the waiting room
Creating a positive association helps children feel confident and engaged throughout their care.
What to Expect During the First Visit
Step 1: Welcome and History Review
The team will greet you and review your paperwork and goals. This is the time to share any concerns about your child’s bite, breathing habits, chewing comfort, or tooth alignment.
Step 2: Clinical Examination
The orthodontist will look at how your child’s teeth and jaws fit together, check growth patterns, and evaluate which baby and permanent teeth are present.
Step 3: Diagnostic Imaging
Digital X-rays or digital scans may be taken to see jaw structure, bone health, and the position of developing teeth. These images help the doctor recommend the right next steps.
Step 4: Discussion of Findings
The orthodontist will explain what was observed, whether treatment is recommended now, or if monitoring is the best approach. You will also have time to ask questions and learn about braces or clear aligner options if needed.
You may explore related options such as:
• Braces: https://www.kahanorthodontics.com/braces/
• Invisalign for growing patients: https://www.kahanorthodontics.com/invisalign/
• What to expect at your first visit: https://www.kahanorthodontics.com/first-visit/
Understanding Common Orthodontic Terms
To help parents feel more comfortable, here is a simple guide to everyday orthodontic language.
Malocclusion
This means the upper and lower teeth do not fit together in appropriate matching positions. It can affect chewing or comfort and may benefit from orthodontic guidance.
Overbite
The upper front teeth sit far in front of the lower teeth. Mild cases are normal, while larger overbites may need monitoring.
Underbite
The lower teeth sit forward of the upper teeth. Some children with underbites benefit from early guidance to support jaw development.
Crossbite
Some upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth. Crossbites can affect chewing comfort and jaw position.
Open bite
The upper and lower teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed. This is often linked to oral habits and may require early evaluation.
Understanding Phase 1 and Phase 2 Treatment
Some children benefit from early treatment called Phase 1. This may help guide jaw growth, create space for adult teeth, or address bite issues that are easier to manage in childhood. Phase 1 treatment typically lasts several months and may use expanders, partial braces, or other gentle appliances.
Phase 2 usually begins later, once most adult teeth have appeared. It focuses on full alignment and refining the final bite using braces or clear aligners. Treatment time varies depending on your child’s needs and growth.
Not every child needs two phases. Many begin in Phase 2 only. Your orthodontist will recommend what best fits your child.
Addressing Parent Questions About Comfort, Activities, and Budget
Comfort
Braces and other appliances may cause mild temporary soreness. The team will give you simple tips to help your child stay comfortable at home.
School and Activities
Children can continue sports and hobbies. A mouthguard may be recommended to protect teeth and braces during contact sports. Eating habits and brushing routines may need small adjustments, but most children adapt quickly.
Scheduling
Regular visits are part of orthodontic care. Appointment frequency depends on the child’s specific needs. Practices often offer flexible times for busy families.
Financial Planning
The first consultation is complimentary and includes an overview of insurance coverage, payment options, and financing solutions. This helps families understand their choices before any treatment begins.
If you want to explore next steps, visit: https://www.kahanorthodontics.com/contact-us/
Helping Your Child Feel Successful Through the Process
Whether your child enters a monitoring program or begins early treatment, consistent attendance, good brushing habits, and positive reinforcement help build confidence. Celebrating small milestones is a great way to keep them motivated.
Kahan Orthodontics provides gentle guidance, advanced digital technology, and a welcoming environment for families in Tarzana, Encino, Woodland Hills, Reseda, and Sherman Oaks. When you are ready to begin your child’s journey, the team is here to support you with clear communication and expert care.