Catch dental issues early! Learn why your child’s first orthodontic visit by age 7 can prevent bigger problems later, and boost their confidence now.
Let’s Talk About Your Child’s Smile… Early
When it comes to kids, we’re quick to monitor their milestones: first steps, first words, first day of school. But what about their first orthodontic visit? Yep, it’s just as important.
Many parents wait until their child is a teen before visiting an orthodontist. But here’s the truth: early dental care can prevent bigger problems down the road, saving you time, money, and stress.
What Is Early Orthodontic Care, Anyway?
Also called interceptive orthodontics, early care usually starts between the ages of 6 and 10. At this stage, your child still has some baby teeth, but their permanent teeth are starting to come in.
Think of it like laying the foundation before building the house. If there’s a small issue now, like a narrow jaw, bite misalignment, or crowding, it can be gently guided before it becomes a full-blown problem.
Why Bother So Early?
You might wonder, “Why can’t we just wait?” Good question.
Well, here’s why early orthodontic evaluations matter:
Catch issues before they get complicated.
A tiny misalignment now could lead to surgery later if left unchecked.Guide jaw development.
Kids’ bones are still growing, making it easier to adjust jaw positioning early.Improve breathing and speech.
Some misalignments affect more than just smiles; they can impact how your child breathes or talks.Boost confidence early.
A happy, confident smile can do wonders for your child’s self-esteem, even in primary school.
Signs Your Child Might Need Early Orthodontic Help
Keep an eye out for these common red flags:
Early or late loss of baby teeth
Difficulty chewing or biting
Mouth breathing
Thumb sucking beyond age 5
Crowded or misplaced teeth
Jaws that shift or make sounds
If you’re noticing any of these, don’t panic; just book an assessment. It doesn’t mean your child will get braces tomorrow, but it gives Dr. Pauline Karanja a chance to track their development.
What Happens at the First Visit?
It’s nothing scary, promise. Dr. Karanja will:
Chat with you and your child to understand concerns
Check how their teeth and jaws are growing
Use gentle, high-tech tools like the 5D iTero Scanner to get a full picture
Suggest a treatment timeline if needed, or simply monitor growth every 6–12 months
It’s about peace of mind, not pressure.
Why Choose Dr. Pauline Karanja?
Dr. Karanja brings years of orthodontic expertise and a mother’s touch. Her gentle approach, cutting-edge tech, and deep understanding of facial development make her one of Nairobi’s most trusted orthodontists for children.
She’s not just straightening teeth. She’s helping kids grow up smiling.
Let’s Give Your Child a Smile That Grows Right
You don’t have to wait for problems to show up. In fact, the best time to act is before they do.
Book an early orthodontic check-up with Dr. Pauline Karanja today and give your child the gift of a confident, healthy smile from the very start.
