The Right Time to Begin

Parents often ask: "What’s the best age for my child to see an orthodontist?" The recommended age is around 6 to 7 years old, when the first adult molars begin to appear. This allows early detection of jaw or bite issues.

Early consultations offer a unique opportunity to guide growth when the jaw bones are still flexible. Acting early can help avoid more invasive and costly treatments later in life.

Signs That May Indicate a Need

Some signs your child may benefit from an orthodontic evaluation include:

• Crossbite (lower teeth are in front of upper teeth)
• Open bite (front teeth don’t touch when the mouth is closed)
• Crowded or widely spaced teeth
• Difficulty chewing or speaking
• Thumb-sucking or persistent mouth breathing
• Jaw shifting when closing the mouth

These signs don’t always mean treatment is needed immediately, but they do indicate the need for a professional evaluation.

Benefits of Early Intervention

Early treatment helps to:

• Guide proper jaw and facial development
• Make room for permanent teeth to erupt more evenly
• Reduce the risk of future tooth extractions
• Correct harmful oral habits and tongue posture
• Improve facial symmetry and oral function
• Boost children’s self-confidence, especially at school

Early orthodontics often involves two treatment phases: the first around ages 7–9, and a second in the teenage years. This strategy leads to better outcomes with fewer complications.

Clear Aligners for Younger Smiles

Thanks to Invisalign First, children can now enjoy:

• Comfortable and removable aligners
• A discreet look compared to metal braces
• Better oral hygiene habits
• Custom SmartTrack™ material tailored for growing mouths

Many parents are surprised at how well kids adapt to aligners—and how much it improves their attitude toward oral care in general.

What to Expect in Terms of Duration

Each child’s journey is different, but early treatment tends to be shorter and more efficient. On average, the first phase lasts 9 to 12 months, followed by a monitoring period.

At Alpine Smiles, we provide:

• A personalised treatment plan
• Regular follow-ups and progress checks
• Digital 3D simulations showing future smile outcomes

The Role of Orthodontic Insurance

In Switzerland, basic insurance usually does not cover orthodontics. However, you can add supplementary orthodontic cover for children. Applying before age 6 often ensures the best premiums and benefits.

We help parents:

• Understand insurance options
• Estimate future costs
• Get support managing the paperwork

Good insurance may cover up to 70–80% of the total cost, making quality care more affordable.

Why Choose Alpine Smiles

Alpine Smiles is more than a clinic – it’s a trusted partner for families across Ticino. Our key strengths:

• Experienced team in paediatric orthodontics
• Friendly, child-centred environment
• Advanced digital technologies like iTero Lumina
• Transparent communication and no hidden costs
• Flexible scheduling and support in multiple languages

Book a Free Consultation

Schedule your child’s free orthodontic check-up today:
📞 +41 (0)91 970 24 24
📧 smile@alpinesmiles.ch
📍 Via Pico 19, Lugano

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

At what age can a child get braces?
From around age 6–7, in selected cases. The orthodontist will assess your child’s needs.

Are clear aligners effective for kids?
Yes! Invisalign First is specifically designed for growing smiles.

Do I need a referral to book a visit?
No referral needed – just book a free consultation at Alpine Smiles.

Does orthodontic treatment hurt?
Not really. There may be mild discomfort at first, but our team ensures your child’s comfort throughout the process.

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