Brady Drake
Most parents know the importance of regular dental checkups, but many are surprised to learn that orthodontic checkups should begin much earlier than the teenage years. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child see an orthodontist by age 7.
Why See An Orthodontist At 7?
At this stage, children typically have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth. That combination gives orthodontists a clear look at how the bite, jaws, and smile are coming together—like seeing the picture on the puzzle box while the pieces are still being placed.
- Early crowding: Collisions in developing teeth may lead to lengthier and more costly treatment.
- Bite alignment: Overbites, underbites, and crossbites can often be identified while the jaws are still developing.
- Growth patterns: Jaw growth and spacing are easier to guide at this stage
- Peace of mind: For many families, the first exam simply confirms everything is right on track.
What Parents Should Know
While many children won’t need braces at age 7, some do. Others may benefit from early expansion or other small interventions that set their bite and alignment up for lifelong health. Catching potential issues early can also shorten or simplify future treatment, often decreasing the overall costs of orthodontic care.
At WE Ortho, the first visit is designed to be gentle, comfortable, and fun. From game rooms in each office to OrthoBucks that can be redeemed for prizes and gift cards, every child’s experience is meant to be joyful.
Setting Kids Up For Lifelong Confidence
The age-7 orthodontic exam can be thought of as a wellness milestone, much like a first eye exam or sports physical. A healthy smile does more than look good—it supports eating, speaking, and confidence at school and in friendships
By starting early, parents gain clarity about whether treatment is needed right away or can wait until later, giving children the best chance at lifelong oral health and confidence.
Why Families Choose We Ortho
- Expertise: The only practice in town with two board-certified orthodontists—Dr. Emerson Ehlis and Dr. Ryan West.
- Advanced technology: An in-house digital lab produces fully customized appliances and retainers using cutting-edge tools.
- Family-friendly financing: Interest-free, in-house payment plans with flexible monthly payment options to make care accessible.
- Convenience: Two offices in Fargo and West Fargo, with a new Wahpeton location opening soon.
- Community favorite: Voted Locals Love Us #1 Orthodontist in Fargo for 2024 and 2025.
More Than Straight Teeth
WE Ortho is about much more than straightening smiles. The practice’s mission is to reshape how orthodontics is understood and delivered in the community
For children, that means early exams and treatment to support proper jaw growth and bite alignment. For adults, it means lasting comfort and functional alignment. For every family, it means orthodontic care that is advanced, efficient, and fun.
Dr. Ehlis and Dr. West are united in their belief that orthodontics should be a lifelong story of health and confidence. At WE Ortho, families are welcomed into that story—one that builds not just smiles that last, but lives that thrive.
Dr. Emerson Ehlis and Dr. Ryan West
4710 Amber Valley Parkway S, Fargo, ND
3280 6th St E Ste B, West Fargo, ND
we-ortho.com
701.293.5300
Facebook | /weortho
Instagram | @we_ortho
