Some seasons in life just seem to align. For our family, this is one of them.
Our youngest is learning to walk. Our oldest just lost another tooth. And at the same time, our practice is growing alongside them—something we’re reminded of daily as parents and providers. This year, our kids are 1 and 7, and those just so happen to be the perfect ages to introduce children to pediatric dentistry and orthodontics.
It’s a connection that’s easy to remember—and one that carries real importance for lifelong oral health.
Start dental visits by age 1
By the time your baby blows out that first birthday candle, it’s time to schedule their first visit with a pediatric dentist. It might feel early, but that first appointment lays the groundwork for everything that follows.
At Hinsdale Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, we keep it simple and supportive. Our approach is all about getting to know your child, spotting early signs of concern, and giving you the tools to take care of tiny teeth at home.
So, from thumb-sucking to teething tips, we cover it all without overwhelm. And perhaps most importantly, early visits help your child feel comfortable and safe in the dental chair from the very beginning.
Schedule an orthodontic evaluation by age 7
When your child turns 7, there’s more going on beneath the surface than meets the eye. Around this age, their adult teeth begin to make their entrance, while their jaws are still growing and changing rapidly.
An early orthodontic evaluation gives us a valuable window into how things are developing. Even if no treatment is needed right away (and often, it’s not), we can monitor their growth and intervene at the right time if issues like crowding, crossbites, or misaligned jaws begin to appear.
Think of it like planting seeds in the right season—it helps everything bloom just as it should.
Why timing matters (and how we’ve lived it ourselves)
We live by the recommendations we provide to all our patients. Watching our own children reach these milestones has made what we do feel even more personal.
When we talk about pediatric needs at age 1 or early ortho evaluations at age 7, we’re speaking not only as your care team but as fellow parents in the thick of it. We’ve scanned tiny teeth, coached through first wiggly molars, and celebrated new smiles at home just like many of you.

Let’s grow healthy smiles together
Whether your child is just getting their first tooth or sporting a new gap-toothed grin, now’s a great time to come see us.
Our practice is here for your whole family, and we’re honored to walk with you through every age and stage.
Ready to schedule that first visit? Let’s make it feel like the start of something good.