Medically Reviewed by Dr. Shaila Kabani on September 24, 2026
Summer is back, and the heat is on. What better way to cool off against the raging heat than by going to the beach? If you want to stay at home or do something productive, you can enroll your kids in summer camp or summer school.
Summer is also the perfect time to do things that you can’t usually do since your kids are in school. One of them is visiting the dentist and ask for a braces consultation. A strong set of teeth doesn’t only need regular brushing and flossing.
You also need to visit the dentist to get your teeth thoroughly cleaned and checked. If your kids’ teeth are not properly aligned, your dentist may recommend braces. In this article, we’re going to talk about braces consultation.
Summer is the perfect time to get braces.
If you have kids, you may think of visiting the dentist to get them braces. These are not only reserved for tweens and teens. In fact, the American Academy of Orthodontics recommends that children have their first braces consultation by the age of seven.
However, you need to schedule a dentist appointment first. The recommendation for braces usually goes after a dentist appointment, so you may want to give your dentist a quick call. The consultation will involve an initial examination with an orthodontist, a dentist who specializes in diagnosing and treating over/underbites, gaps in teeth, teeth crowding, jaw misalignments, and other bite issues. During the consultation, the orthodontist will check your child’s teeth to see if they are healthy. They may even take an x-ray to get a better diagnosis.
The orthodontist will also chat with your child to put them at ease. Once the dentist has examined their teeth and analyzed the x-ray, they will make their recommendations.
An orthodontist’s aim for your kid’s teeth is not just to align or straighten them. There are many reasons to correct teeth alignment other than just beautification. Misaligned teeth or jawbones can cause digestion and nutritional problems because it impacts the way you chew food.
When the teeth are crowded, brushing and flossing can be difficult or impossible. Your orthodontist’s goal is to make sure your child’s smile is healthy. If they don’t see any issues, they may just recommend good oral care. They will also recommend coming back after six months or one year.
Why should my kid get braces at seven years old?
Parents usually think that kids should get braces when they become teens. The reason why dentists recommend it to be at seven years old is for early intervention. Like any other health concern, catching problems during the early stages makes the solution easier.
At what age should my child have their first braces consultation?
The American Academy of Orthodontics recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. At this stage, a mix of baby and permanent teeth makes it possible for a dentist to identify developing bite problems or crowding early. Early intervention can simplify treatment later and may reduce the time your child needs to wear braces.
How long does orthodontic treatment with braces typically take?
Treatment time varies depending on the severity of the alignment issue, but most patients wear braces for one to three years. Mild cases may be resolved in less time, while more complex bite corrections can take longer. After braces are removed, a retainer is typically worn to maintain the results and prevent teeth from shifting back.
What is the difference between traditional braces and clear aligners?
Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires bonded to the teeth to apply gradual pressure, making them effective for a wide range of alignment issues including complex bite corrections. Clear aligners are removable trays that are nearly invisible and can be taken out for eating and brushing. Clear aligners work well for mild to moderate alignment issues, while traditional braces are often recommended for more significant orthodontic concerns.
Does getting braces hurt?
Most patients experience some soreness or pressure for a few days after braces are first placed and after each adjustment appointment. This is normal and typically mild. Over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods can help manage any discomfort during those periods. Between appointments, braces should not cause ongoing pain.
Conclusion
If you have a child that is seven years old, it is best to visit a dentist for a check-up. By determining potential problems as permanent teeth come in, orthodontists can take corrective measures for your child’s teeth. If they find out that braces are needed, it will be easier to treat, and your child can benefit from healthy teeth during their teenage years.
Kabani Dental can help your child get healthy and aligned teeth. We are dentists in Marietta that focus on cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, endodontics, periodontics, and implant dentistry.
Give us a call to get scheduled for your free braces consultation this summer.
About the Author
Dr. Shaila Kabani
Kabani Dental, Marietta, GA
Dr. Shaila Kabani has been practicing dentistry since 2000 and has accumulated more than 300 hours of advanced clinical education. She and her team serve patients throughout Marietta, East Cobb, Vinings, and Smyrna, providing comprehensive general, cosmetic, and restorative dental care with a personalized approach at every appointment.