First Orthodontic Visit: How It Works and What to Expect

The First Step Towards a Healthy and Harmonious Smile

The first orthodontic visit is a fundamental moment in every child’s life. It not only serves to evaluate the health of the mouth and teeth, but also represents an opportunity to build a relationship of trust between the young patient, their parents, and the specialist.

In our orthodontic practice in Lugano, we guide children through a calm, playful, and highly personalized experience. In this article, you’ll discover everything that happens during the first orthodontic check-up and why it’s so important to do it at the right time.

 

When to Have the First Orthodontic Visit?

According to the guidelines of major scientific societies, the first orthodontic visit should take place between the ages of 5 and 7. During this phase, the first signs of bone growth or tooth eruption abnormalities begin to appear, which can be intercepted early.

Even if the baby teeth seem “fine,” a specialist evaluation allows for:

• Identifying any bad habits (pacifier, thumb-sucking, mouth breathing)
• Checking the correct development of the palate and jaw
• Preventing future malocclusions
• Planning, if necessary, minimally invasive and very effective interventions

 

What Is the Purpose of the First Visit?

The first orthodontic visit serves to:

• Evaluate skeletal and dental development
• Analyze the relationship between the dental arches
• Verify oral hygiene and the health of baby and permanent teeth
• Educate the child and parents on the importance of prevention

At this stage, a treatment may not yet be necessary, but growth can be monitored and any interventions can be planned for the most opportune moment.

 

How Does the First Visit Take Place?

In our orthodontic practice in Lugano, the first visit follows a gentle, reassuring, and custom-made approach for every child.

• Initial welcome and dialogue: We introduce ourselves to the young patient and explain each step with simple, reassuring words.
• Clinical examination: We check the teeth, bite, palate, breathing habits, and jaw posture.
• 3D digital scanner (if indicated): In just a few minutes and without any discomfort, we take digital impressions to create a virtual model of the mouth.
• Discussion with parents: We explain what we have observed and propose, if necessary, a personalized monitoring or treatment plan.

 

Do I Need to Bring Anything?

No, no specific documents or preparations are needed. It is sufficient to:

• Bring the child on time
• Inform the practice of any allergies or current therapies
• Help them arrive relaxed, perhaps with a small toy or favorite object

 

The Importance of an Empathetic Approach

First impressions matter a lot. For this reason, in our practice, we pay careful attention to the environment, language, and communication style.

The goal is to provide the child with a positive experience that helps them to:

• Trust the dentist from a young age
• Acquire good oral hygiene habits
• Communicate without fear about discomfort or difficulties

 

After the Visit: What Happens?

Depending on the case, the possibilities are:

• Periodic annual check-up, if everything is normal
• Early treatment plan to correct existing alterations
• Education and advice to improve oral and postural habits

In any case, the first visit represents the beginning of a journey of prevention and well-being that will accompany the child as they grow.

Is the First Visit Scary?

Absolutely not! Our team is trained to handle every young patient with empathy and gentleness. The child is engaged with simple language, games, and small rewards at the end to make everything lighthearted and even fun.

 

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

At what age should the first orthodontic visit be? Between 5 and 7 years old. Even in the absence of obvious problems, it’s important to evaluate skeletal and dental development.

Is the first visit painful? No, it is completely painless. It involves observations, possibly accompanied by a non-invasive digital scanner.

After the visit, is it always necessary to get braces? No. Often, only an annual check-up is scheduled. Braces are only recommended if necessary, and at the most suitable time.

 

In Summary

• The first orthodontic visit is the first step toward a healthy smile.
• It serves to intercept any early problems.
• It is never too early to start prevention.
• In a calm and professional environment, the child has a positive experience.
• Every treatment is personalized, gentle, and without coercion.