When Should Your Child See a Kids Orthodontist?

Our Helpful and Brief Guide for Logan Square Families

At ABC Dental in Chicago’s Logan Square, we know a straight, healthy smile can make a big difference in your child’s confidence and oral health. But many parents aren’t sure when to bring their child to see an orthodontist—or what signs to watch for.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Does my child need braces?”—you’re not alone. Here’s what you need to know.

What Does a Kids’ Orthodontist Do?

A kids orthodontist focuses on how your child’s teeth, jaw, and bite are developing. The goal isn’t just about getting straight teeth—it’s also about making sure your child’s bite is healthy and their mouth has enough space for adult teeth.

At ABC Dental, we keep a close eye on how your child’s smile is growing so we can catch any issues early.

Why It Matters: Seeing a Board-Certified Orthodontist

When it comes to your child’s smile, you want the highest level of care—and that’s where board certification matters. A board-certified orthodontist has gone above and beyond standard dental training, completing advanced education and passing rigorous exams through the American Board of Orthodontics.

At ABC Dental, we’re proud to have a board-certified orthodontist on staff, which means your child receives expert care from someone who specializes in the safest, most effective treatments. From early monitoring to braces and more complex cases, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your child’s smile is in the best hands.

What’s the Best Age for a First Orthodontic Visit?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist by age 7—even if their teeth look fine. At this age, your child will have a mix of baby and adult teeth, and we can spot early signs of problems like:

Crowded or crooked teeth
Overbites or underbites
Teeth that come in too early or too late
Jaw shifting or clicking

Early treatment doesn’t always mean braces right away—but it can make future treatment shorter, easier, and more effective.

Signs Your Child May Need Orthodontic Care

Here are some common signs that your child might benefit from a visit to our Logan Square orthodontic team:

Difficulty chewing or biting
Thumb sucking past age 4
Teeth grinding at night
Mouth breathing
Noticeable overbite or underbite
Early loss of baby teeth
Adult teeth that seem too crowded or out of place

If you’re noticing any of these, we’re here to help!

What Happens at the First Visit?

At ABC Dental, we keep things calm and fun—no scary stuff here! At your child’s first orthodontic appointment, we’ll:

Take a look at their teeth and jaw alignment
Take photos and possibly X-rays
Talk to you about any concerns
Share a plan (if one is needed now or later)

We always give parents clear answers with zero pressure.

Why Families in Chicago Choose ABC Dental

We’re not just any dentist—we’re your neighborhood dental team, right here in Logan Square, serving families from across Chicago.

Our kids’ orthodontic care is designed with your child’s comfort in mind, and we make sure parents stay informed every step of the way. Whether your child needs early intervention or is ready for braces, you’ll feel confident they’re in great hands.

And with a board-certified orthodontist on staff, we deliver the high standard of care your family deserves.

Schedule Your Child’s Orthodontic Checkup Today!

Ready to find out if your child needs braces or early orthodontic care?

Schedule a consultation with our very own board-certified orthodontist, Dr. Hao or our Clear Aligners Specialist, Dr. Nada Zayzafoon. You can do this by calling 773-481-2200, or schedule online here.