2026 Guide for Tribeca Parents: When Should Your Child See an Orthodontist?
As school resumes and families settle into new 2026 routines, it's a great time to revisit your child's healthcare checklist—and that includes their first orthodontic evaluation. If your child is between ages 7 and 9, or even younger, early orthodontic screening can make a long-term difference in their dental health and development.
At Wall Street Orthodontics, we work closely with families in Tribeca and nearby Manhattan neighborhoods to make early orthodontic care easy, educational, and comfortable. With flexible scheduling, advanced technology, and child-friendly care, our goal is to make that first visit the beginning of a confident smile and healthy development.
Why Age 7? And Why Sometimes Earlier?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7—but in many cases, we see children even earlier. While they may not need braces yet, early monitoring allows us to track jaw growth, tooth eruption, and airway development.
Early intervention can help:
- Guide jaw and facial growth while bones are still developing
- Create space for crowded or erupting teeth
- Reduce the risk of needing Surgical Orthodontics or tooth extractions later
- Address speech development or oral habits early
For children younger than 7, we often focus on palatal expansion using gentle, non-invasive devices if the upper jaw is too narrow. This can support healthier breathing and prevent more complex issues later.
More Than Braces: Supporting Airway and Muscle Function
What sets our practice apart is our whole-child approach to early orthodontics. We collaborate with:
- Pediatricians, ENTs, and sleep specialists to evaluate airway function
- Myofunctional therapists to address muscle tone, tongue posture, and oral habits
- Preventive tools like Myobrace® or MyoMunchee® to support proper growth without braces
This proactive model not only sets the foundation for a healthier smile—it can improve sleep quality, speech, and even facial development.
High-Tech, No-Stress Exams for Kids
We use advanced imaging like iTero Digital Impressions to scan your child’s teeth—no goopy molds, no trays, and no stress. These fast, mess-free scans make the first visit a positive experience for both kids and parents.
Our modern technology allows us to:
- Track growth over time with digital records
- Spot early issues before they become more complicated
- Make visits quicker and more comfortable
This makes your child’s first orthodontic experience more about confidence and curiosity—and less about discomfort.
Saturday Appointments for Busy Tribeca Families
We know weekdays can be packed with school drop-offs, meetings, and after-school activities. That’s why we offer Saturday morning hours, giving Tribeca families the flexibility to prioritize their child’s smile without interrupting their school week.
Located just minutes from Tribeca and the surrounding downtown neighborhoods, our practice is designed to fit into your routine—not disrupt it.
Help your child grow into their healthiest smile—starting now.
Book an early orthodontic consultation today »
