If you’re raising kids in Asheville, you already know the area offers no shortage of great resources for families. But one important step parents sometimes overlook is scheduling an early orthodontic evaluation.
At Great Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we work with families from across Western North Carolina every day, and early orthodontic care is one of the most common and most important topics we discuss.
What Is Early Orthodontic Care?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7.
This doesn’t mean your child will need braces at that age. Instead, it gives our team the opportunity to spot potential issues early, before they become more complex and costly to treat later on.
Early evaluations allow us to:
- Monitor jaw growth and development
- Identify crowding, spacing, or bite issues
- Determine the ideal timing for treatment
- In some cases, use early intervention to reduce or prevent future treatment
What We Look for in Young Patients
Every child develops differently, but during early orthodontic screenings at our offices in Asheville, Weaverville, Marion, Waynesville, and Sylva, we commonly look for:
- Crowded or crooked teeth
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing or thumb-sucking habits
- Teeth that don’t come together properly
Catching these concerns early allows us to guide your child’s smile as they grow, often leading to simpler, more effective treatment.
Why Asheville Families Trust Great Smiles
Families throughout Western North Carolina choose Great Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics because of our commitment to comprehensive, coordinated care.
With five convenient locations across the region, we make it easy to access high-quality care close to home. Our team includes both pediatric dentists and orthodontists working together under one roof, ensuring a seamless experience from your child’s first dental visit through their orthodontic journey.
Ready to Schedule an Evaluation?
If your child is around age 7 or older and hasn’t had an orthodontic evaluation, now is a great time to start.
Early orthodontic care is one of the best investments you can make in your child’s long-term oral health and confidence.
Contact Great Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics today to schedule a consultation at one of our Western North Carolina locations. We look forward to meeting your family and helping your child achieve a healthy, confident smile!