Why Children Should Have Their First Orthodontic Evaluation by Age 7
When it comes to your child’s smile, timing matters. Many parents assume they only need to think about orthodontic treatment or braces once all the permanent teeth are in. However, experts recommend that children have their first orthodontic evaluation around age 7 — even if treatment won’t begin for several years.
An early visit doesn’t mean your child will walk out with braces. It simply allows a trained professional to monitor growth and catch potential issues before they become more complicated.
What Makes Age 7 So Important?
By age 7, most children have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth. This stage of development provides valuable insight into how the smile and jaw are forming.
At this age, providers can:
- Evaluate how permanent teeth are erupting
- Identify crowding or spacing issues early
- Check bite alignment (overbite, underbite, crossbite)
- Monitor jaw growth and facial development
- Detect habits like thumb-sucking that may affect alignment
Because the jaw is still growing, certain problems are easier to guide or correct during this phase than later in the teen years.
Signs Your Child May Need an Early Orthodontic Evaluation
Even if everything looks fine, a checkup around age 7 is still recommended. However, you may want to schedule a visit sooner if you notice:
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty biting or chewing
- Mouth breathing
- Crowded or misplaced teeth
- Jaws that shift, pop, or seem misaligned
- Teeth that don’t come together properly
These early signs can indicate underlying growth or alignment concerns.
The Benefits of Early Monitoring
Many children who are evaluated at age 7 do not need immediate treatment. Instead, they are placed in a monitoring program. This allows the provider to track development and recommend the ideal time to begin treatment — if it becomes necessary.
Early monitoring can:
- Reduce the risk of impacted teeth
- Guide jaw growth while it’s still developing
- Create space for incoming permanent teeth
- Prevent more invasive procedures later
- Potentially shorten future treatment time
Think of it as proactive planning for your child’s smile.
Will My Child Need Braces at 7?
Not usually. In fact, most children this age do not start treatment right away. If early intervention is recommended, it is typically to address specific growth-related issues — not just crooked teeth.
For many children, the best approach is observation until more permanent teeth come in.
Early Orthodontic Care Means Confident Smiles Later
Starting evaluations around age 7 helps ensure that your child’s smile develops properly. Even if no treatment is needed right away, you’ll have peace of mind knowing their growth is being monitored at the right time.
If your child is approaching age 7 — or already there — now is a great time to schedule a complimentary smile evaluation and set the foundation for a healthy, confident future. Contact our office today to schedule your free consultation in Jacksonville, FL.