What if you could set your child up for a lifetime of confident smiles and better oral health by starting treatment at just the right time? Families in Clayton, NC, trust McNutt Orthodontics to provide expert evaluations and customized treatment plans that fit their child’s needs. Dr. Matthew McNutt works with children, teens, and adults to create personalized orthodontic solutions, while our Cary office partners with Southern Smiles for complete dental care. Let’s explore how timing plays a role in orthodontic treatment and what to expect at every stage of development.
A Head Start on a Healthier Smile
Kids grow fast, and their smiles change just as quickly. Catching orthodontic concerns early can make a huge difference in treatment options, comfort, and even how long they’ll need braces. That’s why Dr. Matthew McNutt at McNutt Orthodontics in Clayton takes a proactive approach, helping families know when it’s the right time to start. Here’s why an early check-in matters:
- Growth Happens Fast – A child’s jaw and teeth are constantly shifting, and spotting potential concerns early can make future treatment smoother.
- Small Fixes Now, Fewer Problems Later – Addressing crowding, spacing, or bite issues at the right time can help avoid more complex procedures down the road.
- Every Child is Different – Some kids may need early intervention, while others just need monitoring—knowing where your child stands takes the guesswork out of orthodontic care.
- Less Time in Braces – When orthodontic treatment starts at the right moment, it can often shorten the overall time your child spends in braces.
The team at McNutt Orthodontics takes the guesswork out of orthodontic care, helping parents understand exactly what their child needs and when to get started. Wondering when the right time is for that first visit? Let’s take a closer look.
The Best Age for a First Orthodontic Evaluation
Most parents don’t think about braces until the teenage years, but did you know the first orthodontic check-up should happen much earlier? The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that kids see an orthodontist around age 7—even if their teeth look straight.
Baby Teeth Set the Stage
Baby teeth do more than just make way for permanent ones—they act as natural guides, helping adult teeth settle into the right spots. Spotting alignment concerns early can make future corrections smoother and may even prevent more complex issues down the road.
Jaw Growth Is in Progress
Around age 7, a child’s jaw is still developing. If there are bite concerns, early treatment may help correct them while growth is still happening.
Not All Treatment Starts Right Away
Many kids won’t need braces at this age, but early visits allow Dr. Matthew McNutt at McNutt Orthodontics in Clayton to monitor their development and recommend the best time for treatment.
Easier Corrections
Some early orthodontic interventions, like space maintainers or expanders, can help create room for incoming teeth, making future treatment more efficient.
Dr. McNutt takes a personalized approach, ensuring that each child gets the right care at the right time. Now that we know when to start orthodontic evaluations, let’s explore what happens if early treatment is needed.
Early Treatment (Ages 7-10) When It’s the Right Choice
Not every child needs orthodontic treatment at a young age, but for some, starting early can make a huge difference. Dr. Matthew McNutt at McNutt Orthodontics in Clayton evaluates each child individually, determining whether early intervention could help avoid bigger challenges later on. Here’s when early treatment might be recommended:
- Severe Crowding – If there isn’t enough space for permanent teeth to come in properly, early treatment can help create room before they fully emerge.
- Crossbites, Overbites & Underbites – When the upper and lower jaws don’t line up as they should, early treatment can help guide proper development while the jaw is still growing.
- Thumb-Sucking or Prolonged Pacifier Use – These habits can affect how teeth and jaws develop. Orthodontic intervention may help correct any lingering effects.
- Speech or Chewing Challenges – If bite issues are affecting everyday functions like speaking or eating, early orthodontic care can help improve them.
- Teeth That Stick Out – Front teeth that protrude may be more prone to injury. Early orthodontic treatment can help adjust their position for better protection.
For kids who need it, early orthodontic care can make future treatment easier and shorter. But not every child requires early intervention—many can wait until the tween and teen years. Let’s take a look at what treatment looks like during that stage.
Orthodontic Treatment During the Tween & Teen Years
By the time kids reach their tween and teen years, most of their permanent teeth have come in, making this the most common time to start orthodontic care. Dr. Matthew McNutt works with families to determine the best timing and treatment plan.
Why This Age Is Ideal
Since the jaw is still growing and permanent teeth are already in place during these years, orthodontic treatment can guide teeth into better positions more effectively than in adulthood. Treatment is often faster and requires fewer adjustments than it would for an adult. Starting now can also help avoid more complicated issues in the future, reducing the need for extractions or longer treatment plans.
Braces & Aligners Fit Busy Lifestyles
- Today’s options allow teens to continue sports, music, and social activities without disruption.
- Improving their smile can boost confidence during an important stage of life.
No matter when treatment starts, Dr. McNutt and his team provide expert care and guidance every step of the way. With personalized plans and flexible options, families in Clayton can feel confident knowing their child’s smile is in great hands!
The Right Time with The Right Care
Every child’s smile grows at its own pace, and knowing when to start orthodontic care can make all the difference. The Tooth Mover Team at McNutt Orthodontics in Clayton and Cary is here to help families make confident decisions with personalized care and expert evaluations. Schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward a lifetime of healthy smiles!