Baptiste Orthodontics and Baptiste Dentistry for Kids show how pediatric dentists and orthodontists work together to support children’s dental development.

Parents often think of braces as something children need during middle school or teenage years. But long before brackets and wires become part of the conversation, a child’s smile is already telling an important story.

From the first baby teeth to the arrival of permanent teeth, pediatric dentists monitor much more than cavities and cleanings. They watch how the jaws develop, how teeth come in and whether a child’s bite is forming properly. When something seems out of place, they may recommend an orthodontic evaluation to determine whether early detection could prevent future issues. The goal isn’t to start treatment sooner but to start the conversation sooner.

According to Dr. Maryana Dalmeida, a pediatric dentist at Baptiste Dentistry for Kids, the first orthodontic evaluation often comes earlier than parents expect.

“The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation around age 7,” she states. “During regular dental visits, we look at how the permanent teeth are coming in and how the bite and jaws are developing. If we notice something that needs further evaluation, we may recommend seeing an orthodontist.”

Dr. Andre Baptiste, orthodontist and founder of Baptiste Orthodontics and Baptiste Dentistry for Kids, says there isn’t a one-size-fits-all age for a child’s first orthodontic evaluation. Instead, the timing depends on each child’s development and whether concerns are identified as their teeth and jaws grow.

“Anytime you suspect that there is a problem, you should do an orthodontic consultation,” he mentions. “Most kids are ready for braces usually around 9, 10 or 11. It’s never too early for a consult, but sometimes it’s too early to start.”

During routine dental visits, pediatric dentists monitor other concerning factors besides cavities. They also watch how permanent teeth are erupting, evaluate the bite and observe how the upper and lower jaws are developing. If something appears abnormal, they may work alongside an orthodontist to determine the best course of action.

“We look at more than just whether the teeth are straight,” Dr. Dalmeida says. “We evaluate how the upper and lower jaws fit together, the child’s bite and how much space there is for the permanent teeth. … Some problems are better treated while the jaws are still growing, while others can simply be monitored until more of the permanent teeth come in. If we see something that may benefit from early treatment, we refer the child to an orthodontist and work together to determine the best timing.”

According to Dr. Baptiste, early treatment can be extremely beneficial under the right circumstances. 

“When it’s warranted, we can prevent a much larger problem from happening down the road, maybe even avoid the need for further treatment,” he says. 

At the same time, Dr. Baptiste cautions against treating every child too early. 

“One of the cons is sometimes orthodontists will put braces on everybody that comes through their door, and then you end up having braces twice for no good reason.”

Parents who notice something unusual about their child’s teeth or jaw development don’t have to wait until the recommended age for an orthodontic evaluation to ask questions. Concerns such as crowded teeth, an uneven bite or changes in jaw development can be discussed during routine dental visits. Even if everything is progressing normally, an orthodontic evaluation can provide reassurance and establish a baseline for monitoring growth as permanent teeth continue to emerge.

“I would talk to your general dentist or pediatric dentist if you feel anything is unusual and ask if they should get an orthodontic consult,” suggests Dr. Baptiste. “If you feel like you are not being heard or you see something you want reassurance about, then make a consultation with an orthodontist.”

By combining routine pediatric dental care with timely orthodontic evaluations, children receive personalized care based on their individual development. It’s a collaborative approach focused on creating healthy bites, properly developed jaws and confident smiles that last a lifetime.

Baptiste Orthodontics
Apopka | Dr. Phillips/Windermere | Orlando
(407) 217-2927
BaptisteOrthodontics.com

Baptiste Dentistry for Kids
Apopka
(407) 992-8400
BaptisteDentistryforKids.com