As a parent, it’s natural to want the best for your child—especially when it comes to their health and confidence. While braces are often associated with the teenage years, you might be surprised to learn that orthodontic treatment can (and often should) begin much earlier.
So, when exactly should your child see an orthodontist? The short answer: by age 7.
Let’s dive into why early evaluations matter, what orthodontists look for in young children, and how starting early can make treatment simpler, shorter, and more effective.
What Is an Early Orthodontic Evaluation?
An early orthodontic evaluation is a preventive visit with an orthodontist around age 7, even if your child doesn’t show obvious signs of orthodontic issues. This proactive approach is known as Phase 1 or interceptive orthodontics, and it focuses on identifying problems with jaw growth, tooth development, and bite alignment before they become more severe.
These evaluations are quick, non-invasive, and incredibly valuable for planning a healthy, confident smile.
Why Age 7?
By age 7, most children have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, giving orthodontists a clear picture of how the smile and jaws are developing. It’s a critical window for spotting early issues like:
- Crossbites or underbites
- Crowding or spacing
- Jaw alignment issues
- Thumb-sucking effects
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
Even if no treatment is needed at this stage, an orthodontist can monitor growth and determine the ideal time for braces or other interventions.
Signs Your Child Might Need an Evaluation
While some children show no outward symptoms, there are several signs that a child could benefit from an early visit to the orthodontist:
- Bite misalignment — When the teeth don’t meet evenly when biting down
- Crowded, misplaced, or blocked-out teeth
- Prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use beyond age 4
- Mouth breathing or snoring
- Difficulty chewing or biting food
- Speech issues potentially linked to jaw development
- Teeth that come in too early or too late
Even one of these symptoms can be a reason to schedule an early consultation.
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Evaluations
Catching orthodontic issues early doesn’t always mean starting braces right away. In many cases, the orthodontist will simply recommend monitoring your child’s growth over the next few years. However, if early treatment is needed, it offers several benefits:
- Guides proper jaw growth
- Creates space for incoming permanent teeth
- Reduces the risk of tooth extractions later
- Corrects harmful oral habits
- Improves facial symmetry and appearance
- Shortens the length and complexity of future treatment
Think of it like getting a head start—small interventions now can prevent bigger procedures later.
What Happens During the First Visit?
At your child’s initial consultation, the orthodontist will:
- Review your child’s dental and medical history
- Take digital X-rays and photographs to see the teeth and jaws in detail
- Perform a clinical exam to assess bite, alignment, and facial balance
- Provide a personalized recommendation, which may include:
- No treatment needed
- Monitoring every 6–12 months
- Interceptive treatment (like a palatal expander, habit appliance, or partial braces)
You’ll receive expert guidance on what’s best for your child’s unique smile.
Common Early Treatments (Phase 1)
If treatment is recommended before all permanent teeth have erupted, it usually falls under Phase 1 orthodontics. These treatments are designed to address growth and developmental concerns early.
Common Phase 1 treatments include:
- Palatal expanders — Used to widen the upper jaw and create space
- Space maintainers — Prevent nearby teeth from shifting after premature loss of a baby tooth
- Habit appliances — Help stop thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting
- Limited braces or aligners — Correct specific alignment or bite issues
After Phase 1, most children still require Phase 2 treatment (braces or Invisalign) once all permanent teeth come in, but the second phase is usually faster and simpler.
Is Early Treatment Always Necessary?
No—not every child will need early treatment. In fact, many kids are simply placed on a growth and monitoring plan. That’s why it’s so valuable to schedule an evaluation: the goal is not to over-treat, but to plan wisely based on your child’s needs.
Waiting too long, however, can make certain issues harder to correct, particularly jaw alignment concerns that may require surgery in later years.
Why Local Parents Trust Early Evaluations
Parents in Marlboro and the surrounding communities are increasingly taking advantage of early evaluations for peace of mind—and for good reason. Early orthodontic care has become a trusted tool in guiding facial development, improving confidence, and avoiding more complex treatment later on.
It’s not just about straight teeth—it’s about supporting overall oral health and growth during the most formative years.
Book Your Child’s First Orthodontic Visit Today
At TG Orthodontics in Marlboro, NJ, we’re proud to offer complimentary consultations for children as young as 7. Our friendly, experienced team makes early evaluations simple, stress-free, and informative—so you can make the best decisions for your child’s smile.
Schedule your child’s first orthodontic visit today and take the first step toward a healthy, confident future.