The first orthodontic check-up is recommended at around age 6-7, when the permanent teeth start coming through. The American Association of Orthodontists advises having it by age 7 at the latest. A check-up doesn't mean starting treatment: in most children we simply monitor growth, but spotting some problems early means they can be corrected with simpler treatment.
When to Have the First Orthodontic Check-Up
By around age 6-7, the first permanent molars and incisors have come through, and we can assess how the teeth fit together and how the jaws are growing. It's the ideal time to detect skeletal problems, which are easier to correct while the child is still growing.
Warning Signs
Book a check-up if you notice any of these signs:
| Sign | What it may indicate |
|---|---|
| The upper teeth bite inside the lower ones | Crossbite |
| The front teeth don't touch when the mouth is closed | Open bite |
| The upper teeth almost completely cover the lower ones | Deep overbite |
| Sleeps with their mouth open or snores | Mouth breathing and a narrow palate |
| Very crowded teeth or large gaps between them | Too little or too much space |
| Sucks their thumb or uses a dummy beyond age 4-5 | Risk of distorting the bite |
At wiloo we specialise in children's dental health. Find out more about our children's orthodontics.
What Is Interceptive Orthodontics
It's orthodontic treatment carried out during childhood, usually between ages 6 and 10, to correct jaw growth problems or harmful habits. It takes advantage of the fact that the bone is still growing.
It doesn't always replace later orthodontic treatment, but it usually makes it shorter and simpler, and in some cases avoids extractions or surgery in adulthood.
Most Common Appliances for Children
- Palatal expander: widens the upper jaw when it's narrow, for example in crossbites.
- Removable appliances: plates the child can take out, used to correct minor misalignments or habits.
- Space maintainers: hold the gap when a baby tooth is lost too early.
- Aligners for children: in some cases, as an alternative to traditional appliances.
What Happens If You Wait?
Some bite problems resolve on their own as the child grows, but others get worse. Once growth has finished, certain skeletal problems can no longer be corrected with orthodontics alone. That's why an early check-up is mainly about making decisions in time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will they need braces later on?
It depends on the case. Some children only need an interceptive phase and others a second phase in adolescence, which is usually shorter.
How long does children's orthodontic treatment take?
An interceptive phase usually lasts between 6 and 18 months, depending on the problem and the appliance.
Does an expander hurt?
For the first few days there's some pressure and possibly mild discomfort, which soon passes. It doesn't usually hurt.
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