According to the American Academy of Orthodontics, it is important that your child visit an orthodontist by age 7 and here is why:

To have a healthy smile that’s good for life, your child needs teeth and jaws that are properly aligned. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that your child get a check-up with an orthodontist at the first recognition of the existence of an orthodontic problem, but no later than age 7. By then, your child has enough permanent teeth for an orthodontist to determine whether an orthodontic problem exists or is developing.

Putting of a check-up with an orthodontist until a child has lost all baby teeth could be a disservice. Some orthodontic problems may be easier to correct if they’re found early. A check-up no later than age 7 gives your orthodontist the opportunity to recommend the appropriate treatment at the appropriate time. Is early treatment is in order, the orthodontist may be able to achieve results that may not be possible once the face and jaws have finished growing.