Why around age 7?
By this age most children have a mix of baby and adult teeth, and the first permanent molars have usually come in. That makes it possible to spot developing bite, spacing or jaw-growth concerns while growth is still underway.
Early intervention
Orthodontics for kids.
A first orthodontic check around age 7 lets us monitor growth and step in only when timing makes treatment simpler and shorter.
Phase I
Early treatment for children
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic exam by age 7. At that visit we look at facial development, crowding, crossbites, open bites, airway, tongue position, and swallowing habits. Catching those early lets us guide jaw width and growth patterns instead of working against them — and every Phase I plan is built for the individual child.
Growth-guided care
Expanders and interceptive treatment that use a child's growth rather than working against it.
Watching, not rushing
Many children simply need monitoring at first. If treatment can wait — or be made shorter by waiting — we'll tell you that instead of starting early.
Early evaluation
When should a child see an orthodontist?
Around age 7 is a good time for a first orthodontic check-up — usually not to start treatment, but to see how the teeth and jaws are developing.
Most children evaluated early simply need monitoring. Treatment is only recommended when timing makes it simpler or more effective.
Signs parents may notice
- Baby teeth lost much earlier or later than usual
- Crowded, overlapping or widely spaced teeth
- Upper teeth that stick out, or front teeth that don't meet
- A bite that shifts to one side, or difficulty chewing
- Mouth breathing, or a thumb or finger habit that continues as adult teeth arrive
What an early visit involves
The doctor examines your child's teeth, bite and jaw growth and explains what they see in plain language. If nothing is needed yet, we'll suggest when to check again. You can read more about what happens at a first visit.
If early (Phase I) treatment is recommended
Early treatment may use an appliance to guide jaw growth or make room for adult teeth. Many children will still need a second phase later, often with braces in the teen years. Costs are explained at the consultation — see investment and insurance.
Your child's first visit is free.
A full exam and a plain-language plan - with no obligation to begin.