The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child see an orthodontist by age 7.
In some cases, an orthodontic concern may require an earlier orthodontic consultation. Around age 7, the first adult molars typically erupt, helping to define a patient’s back bite and allowing the orthodontist to evaluate the bite more effectively. Treatment at this age may not be necessary. Still, orthodontic monitoring can help anticipate the ideal timeline for the most effective treatment and also help to prevent more severe problems in the future.
Some results of effective early treatment:
- Reducing the need for tooth removal
- Creating space for crowded, erupting teeth
- Reducing the risk of injury to protruding front teeth
- Preserving space for permanent teeth
- Reducing future orthodontic treatment time
