---
title: "Child's First Orthodontist Visit: How to Prepare"
description: "What to expect at your child's first orthodontic appointment at Smile Suite, and how to help them feel excited instead of nervous."
canonical_url: "https://smilesuiteortho.com/resources/articles/first-ortho-visit-how-to-prepare"
published_date: "2026-04-03"
author_reviewed_by: "Dr. Kimberly Mays Smith, DDS, MS"
practice: "Smile Suite Orthodontics"
location: "2422 Main St., Evanston, IL 60202"
phone: "(847) 665-1504"
category: "Orthodontic Articles & Clinical Insights"
---
# Child's First Orthodontist Visit: How to Prepare

Bringing your child to their first orthodontic appointment is a real milestone — and it's normal for it to come with a mix of excitement and a little anxiety, for kids and parents alike.

## Why Age 7?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a [first orthodontic evaluation by age 7](/who-we-help/children), right around when permanent teeth start coming in. An early look lets us catch:

- Bite alignment issues
- Jaw development patterns
- Whether there's enough space for incoming teeth
- Thumb-sucking or breathing habits worth addressing
- Crowding, gaps, or bite discrepancies

Most seven-year-olds won't need braces right away. This visit is about spotting potential problems early and building a plan — not starting treatment on the spot.

## What to Expect at Smile Suite

We're located at 2422 Main Street in Evanston, and we build [the visit](/new-patients/what-to-expect) around making your child comfortable from the start.

1. **A warm welcome and office tour** — meeting [our team](/meet-dr-smith/smile-suite-team) and getting familiar with the space
2. **A smile evaluation** — a gentle exam, photos, and digital X-rays using our iTero scanner
3. **A treatment discussion** — a clear explanation from [Dr. Kim](/meet-dr-smith) of what she sees and what (if anything) we recommend
4. **Financial and scheduling details** — [insurance coverage and payment options](/new-patients/insurance-financing), explained up front

## How to Prepare Your Child

Frame the visit positively — "someone who helps smiles grow strong" goes a lot further than "the dentist for your teeth." Sharing a few before-and-after stories can help too, and comfortable clothing never hurts.

Parents often ask us:

- Will treatment start right away?
- What's the difference between [early intervention](/treatments/early-orthodontics) and waiting?
- How long does treatment usually take?
- What does insurance cover?

## Make It a Mini Celebration

A soft treat afterward, a sticker chart for appointments, a small "braces survival kit," or a photo at the office all help turn the visit into something to look forward to rather than dread.

A small wording shift goes a long way, too — try "they'll be really gentle" instead of "don't be scared," and "let's learn about your teeth together" instead of "you have to behave."

## What Happens Next

After the consultation, you'll leave with a clear picture of your child's smile development, a treatment timeline if one is needed, flexible payment options, and a plan built around your child specifically.

Ready to schedule your child's first visit? [Get in touch](/#contact) or call us at (847) 665-1504 — we're happy to answer any questions before you even come in.
---

## Reviewed by Dr. Kimberly Mays Smith, DDS, MS
Lead Orthodontist at [Smile Suite Orthodontics](https://smilesuiteortho.com). Serving Evanston, Skokie, Wilmette, Lincolnwood, and North Side Chicago.
Schedule a complimentary consultation at [smilesuiteortho.com/#orthobook](https://smilesuiteortho.com/#orthobook) or call (847) 665-1504.