Parents often ask, “When should my child see an orthodontist?” The answer might surprise you! While many people associate braces with the teenage years, the best time for an initial orthodontic evaluation is much earlier around age 7.
At Simple Orthodontics, we believe in a proactive approach to orthodontic care. Early screenings allow us to guide jaw development, correct bite issues, and even prevent more complex treatments later on.
Why Age 7? The Benefits of Early Orthodontic Evaluation
By age 7, most children have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, making it easier to spot developing problems such as:
✔ Crowding or spacing issues
✔ Overbites, underbites, or crossbites
✔ Jaw growth irregularities
✔ Thumb-sucking or tongue-thrust habits that affect tooth alignment
Not every child will need treatment right away, but early detection can make a big difference. Our goal is to identify potential issues and decide the best time to intervene—whether that’s immediately or a few years down the road.
Two-Phase Treatment: A Smart Approach for Growing Kids
If needed, early orthodontic treatment (Phase 1) can help:
🔹 Expand the upper jaw to create space for permanent teeth
🔹 Correct bite misalignment before it worsens
🔹 Reduce the risk of tooth extractions later
🔹 Improve airway health for better breathing and sleep
Phase 2 treatment (typically in the early teen years) then fine-tunes the final alignment with braces or aligners. Starting treatment at the right time can make the second phase shorter and more effective.
Is It Ever Too Late for Orthodontic Treatment?
Nope! It’s never too late for a healthier smile. While early intervention can simplify treatment, teens and adults can still achieve amazing results with braces or clear aligners. In fact, custom braces technology now allows for faster, more efficient treatment with fewer office visits.
Book a Free Consultation Today!
If your child is around age 7, or if you’re considering braces at any age, we’re here to help! At Simple Orthodontics, Dr. Sean Carlson and our team use the latest technology to make treatment as comfortable, efficient, and effective as possible.
A beautiful, healthy smile starts with the right timing—let’s find the best plan for you or your child! 😁✨