Many parents ask when their kid should first see an orthodontist. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This does not mean your kiddo will need braces right away. It simply allows us to check how their smile is developing and make sure everything is on the right track.
Around age 7, children typically have a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth. With an exam and X-rays, we can evaluate jaw growth, bite alignment, and how their adult teeth are coming in. Early evaluations help us spot potential concerns and decide whether treatment is needed now or if it is best to continue monitoring as they grow.
Why an Early Orthodontic Evaluation Matters
Seeing an orthodontist at age 7 allows us to identify issues early while there is still plenty of room for growth. At this stage, we can check for crowding or spacing issues, identify bite concerns, and assess jaw growth while the bones are still developing.
Early evaluations also allow us to monitor habits like thumb sucking or mouth breathing which can affect tooth alignment and jaw development over time if left unaddressed. Catching these concerns early helps us plan appropriately and prevent small issues from becoming bigger ones later on.
Early Treatment vs. Later Treatment
In most cases, the recommendation is simply, “let’s monitor it.” Regular check-ins allow us to track changes and step in only if and when treatment becomes necessary.
In some cases, however, early treatment, also known as Phase 1 treatment, may be recommended. Phase 1 treatment typically takes place between ages 7 and 10 and is used when early intervention can make a meaningful difference.
Early treatment may be recommended if:
- The jaw is growing unevenly
- Teeth are extremely overcrowded
- There are severe bite issues
- Adult teeth are blocked from coming in properly
How Early Treatment Can Help
When early treatment is appropriate, it can provide life-changing, long-term benefits for your kiddo’s oral health and orthodontic care. Early invention can:
- Reduce the need for extractions later
- Help guide jaw growth in the right direction
- Make future orthodontic treatment shorter and easier on the teeth
- Prevent long-term health issues associate with poor bite alignment and jaw development
An orthodontic consultation at a young age is about awareness, not rushing into treatment. For many kids, the right next step is simply monitoring growth and development over time. For others, early treatment can help prevent more complex concerns later on.
If you’re unsure about whether your kiddo is ready to see an orthodontist, we’re here to help provide clarity and peace of mind. We offer free orthodontic consultations, giving you the opportunity to ask questions, understand your child’s development, and plan confidently as their smile grows.
This article has been reviewed for medical accuracy by Dr. Reginald Fulford, Clinical Director of Orthodontics at Kids Care Dental & Orthodontics.
