Deciding when to see an orthodontist isn’t always straightforward. Maybe your child’s teeth aren’t coming in the way you expected, or you’ve been thinking about braces for yourself but aren’t sure if it’s necessary. Orthodontic treatment can help prevent bigger dental issues down the road. Dr. Farnsworth, Dr. Sorensen, and Dr. Brimhall at Farnsworth Family Orthodontics work with patients of all ages to find the right treatment plan at the right time. If you’re in Carlsbad, Clovis, or Hobbs, NM, or Lubbock and San Angelo, TX, it’s helpful to know what to consider when booking your first orthodontic appointment.
Signs It’s Time for an Orthodontic Checkup
Some orthodontic issues are easy to spot. Crooked teeth, gaps, or a bite that feels off might be enough to make you pick up the phone and schedule a visit. Other signs you should visit an orthodontist aren’t as obvious but can still point to underlying problems. Look out for:
- Frequent mouth breathing
- Grinding your teeth, especially at night
- Difficulty biting or chewing
- Jaw pain, clicking, or shifting
- Baby teeth that fall out too early or too late
- A thumb-sucking habit that isn’t going away
If anything on that list sounds familiar, it’s worth having Dr. Farnsworth, Dr. Sorensen, or Dr. Brimhall take a look. Small problems can turn into bigger ones over time, but early treatment can make things easier in the long run.
When Should Kids See an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) suggests kids have their first orthodontic checkup around age seven. It might seem early, but with a mix of baby and adult teeth coming in, it’s the perfect time to catch any potential issues before they turn into bigger problems.
Why Age Seven?
An early visit helps determine:
- If there’s enough space for adult teeth
- Whether bite problems like crossbites or overbites are developing
- If habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting are affecting alignment
Most kids don’t need braces right away. The goal is to catch concerns early so treatment can be planned at the right time. In some cases, early intervention can prevent more complicated issues later.
Orthodontic Treatment for Adults
A lot of adults assume they missed their window for orthodontic care. That’s not the case. More adults than ever are choosing treatment, and modern options make it easier to fit into daily life.
Why Consider Treatment?
- Better oral health: Straighter teeth are easier to clean, which helps prevent cavities and gum disease.
- Improved function: A misaligned bite can lead to jaw pain, uneven wear on teeth, and even headaches.
- More confidence: Feeling comfortable with your smile can make a real difference.
For those who don’t love the idea of traditional braces, clear aligners and ceramic braces offer more subtle options. Dr. Farnsworth, Dr. Sorensen, and Dr. Brimhall work with patients of all ages to find a treatment plan that fits their needs.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
If you’ve never been to an orthodontist in Carlsbad, Clovis, or Hobbs, NM, or Lubbock and San Angelo, TX before, you might be wondering what happens at the first appointment. Here’s what the process usually looks like at Farnsworth Family Orthodontics:
- Exam & X-rays: The orthodontist will check your teeth and bite, sometimes using digital scans or X-rays to get a full picture.
- Discussion: Any concerns about spacing, bite alignment, or crowding will be reviewed.
- Treatment Options: If treatment is needed, you’ll go over options like braces, clear aligners, or other solutions.
- Next Steps: Some patients start treatment right away, while others just need periodic monitoring.
It’s an informative visit, not a high-pressure sales pitch. The goal is to make sure you understand your options so you can make the right choice.
Don’t Wait Until It Becomes a Bigger Problem
You don’t need to wait for visible issues or discomfort to schedule an appointment. Orthodontic care is about prevention as much as it is about correction. If you’re in Carlsbad, Clovis, or Hobbs, NM, or Lubbock and San Angelo, TX, our team at Farnsworth Family Orthodontics is here to help.
Call today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Farnsworth, Dr. Sorensen, and Dr. Brimhall so they can help you with the next steps.