When most people think of braces, they usually imagine teenagers wearing them during high school. But did you know that orthodontic care can begin much earlier? In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this stage, their teeth and jaws are still developing, which makes it easier to detect and correct problems early.
Celebrate Dental & Braces believes in guiding families through each step of a child’s dental journey, including early orthodontic care. With regular monitoring and early treatment when needed, children can avoid more serious issues later in life and enjoy healthier, more confident smiles.
What Is Early Orthodontic Care?
Early orthodontic care — also known as interceptive orthodontics — focuses on detecting and treating dental and jaw problems in children before all of their adult teeth come in. It’s not always about putting braces on right away. Sometimes, early care simply means keeping an eye on how a child’s teeth and jaw are growing.
In other cases, a dentist or orthodontist may recommend space maintainers, expanders, or partial braces to guide the development of teeth and avoid future complications. Starting care early often reduces the time and cost of treatment later.
Why Start Orthodontic Checkups at Age 7?
By age 7, most children have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth. This is an important time to check how the teeth are coming in and whether the upper and lower jaws are growing properly. An early orthodontic evaluation helps identify issues like:
-
Crowded or crooked teeth
-
Bite problems (overbite, underbite, crossbite)
-
Jaw misalignment
-
Early or late loss of baby teeth
-
Thumb sucking or tongue thrusting habits
-
Difficulty chewing or speaking
Not all children will need treatment at this age, but having a professional evaluation provides helpful information and a clear plan for the future.
Signs Your Child May Need Orthodontic Attention
While only a trained dentist or orthodontist can diagnose orthodontic issues, there are some signs that parents can watch for:
-
Teeth that look too crowded or spaced too far apart
-
Baby teeth that fall out too early or too late
-
A jaw that makes clicking or shifting sounds
-
Difficulty biting or chewing food properly
-
Mouth breathing or snoring at night
-
A noticeable overbite or underbite
-
Frequent thumb or finger sucking beyond age 5
If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to schedule an orthodontic evaluation. Early treatment can be easier, more effective, and less invasive.
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment
Early orthodontic care can offer several important advantages for children’s oral health:
1. Guides Jaw Growth
If a child’s jaw is too narrow or not developing properly, it can cause crowding or bite problems. Early treatment with expanders or special appliances can help guide jaw development.
2. Makes Space for Permanent Teeth
Sometimes baby teeth fall out too early, and nearby teeth shift into the empty space. This can block adult teeth from coming in properly. Space maintainers keep that space open.
3. Reduces the Need for Tooth Removal
When there isn’t enough room for adult teeth, removing teeth is sometimes necessary later. Early treatment may reduce or eliminate the need for extractions.
4. Improves Bite Alignment
Correcting crossbites, overbites, or underbites early can prevent uneven tooth wear, jaw strain, and speech problems.
5. Helps with Habits
Some orthodontic appliances can help discourage thumb sucking or tongue thrusting, which can affect tooth and jaw development.
6. Builds Confidence
Fixing visible issues like crooked front teeth can help children feel more comfortable smiling and speaking.
What to Expect During an Early Orthodontic Visit
At Celebrate Dental & Braces, the orthodontic evaluation is gentle, educational, and family-friendly. The process typically includes:
-
A visual exam of your child’s teeth and bite
-
Digital X-rays to see how teeth are developing below the surface
-
Photos or digital scans to track changes over time
-
A conversation about habits like thumb sucking or mouth breathing
-
A customized plan, if early treatment is needed
Most of the time, the dentist will recommend observation — returning every 6–12 months to monitor growth. If early treatment is needed, it’s often short and simple compared to full braces later.
Common Early Orthodontic Treatments
Not all children will need braces right away, but some may benefit from simple treatments during the early years. These may include:
Palatal Expanders
Used to widen the upper jaw when it’s too narrow. This helps teeth fit better and creates space for adult teeth.
Space Maintainers
Help keep space open for adult teeth when a baby tooth is lost too early.
Partial Braces or Aligners
In some cases, limited braces or clear aligners are used to correct a few specific teeth.
Habit Appliances
These are special devices used to stop thumb sucking or tongue thrusting.
Growth Guidance Appliances
Help the jaws grow into the correct shape or position.
These treatments usually last a few months to a year and are followed by a resting phase before full orthodontic care, if needed, during the teen years.
The Second Phase: Teen Braces or Invisalign
Even if early treatment is done, most children still need full braces or Invisalign during their teenage years once all their adult teeth have come in. The second phase is often easier and shorter because many problems were addressed earlier.
Celebrate Dental & Braces offers a variety of options, including:
-
Traditional metal braces
-
Clear ceramic braces
-
Invisalign for teens
-
Retainers after braces for lasting results
Because the dental team already knows your child’s dental history, transitioning to full orthodontic treatment is smooth and stress-free.
Supporting Healthy Growth with Confidence
Early orthodontic care is not just about straightening teeth. It’s about helping children grow up with healthy mouths, functional bites, and strong self-esteem. By addressing dental issues early, families can avoid longer or more complex treatments in the future.
Celebrate Dental & Braces supports parents and children every step of the way, from the first visit to the final smile. With a focus on gentle care and long-term planning, early orthodontics becomes a smart investment in a child’s health and confidence.
