Why Age 7 is the New “Right Time” to See an Orthodontist

For years, orthodontic treatment was commonly believed to be best started during the early teenage years, once most permanent tooth had erupted. However, recent advances in dental science are challenging this norm. New clinical studies have highlighted benefits of early orthodontic evaluation and intervention for some malocclusion cases, from guiding proper jaw growth¹ to better skeletal changes² making treatment more effective reducing the need for extensive treatment later³. This early stage is often referred to as the “golden period” typically around age 7 when the first permanent teeth start to emerge.

During this phase, the dental and skeletal structures are in a dynamic state of transition, presenting both opportunities and challenges for orthodontic intervention. Mixed dentition is characterized by the presence of a combination of primary and permanent teeth, and this transitional stage lays the foundation for the child’s future occlusion and overall oral health.

Early assessment can detect potential dental issues

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends children have their first orthodontic check-up by age seven or when the first permanent tooth has erupted⁴. This is strongly echoed by the Association of Orthodontists (Singapore), highlighting that an early assessment helps detect potential dental issues while they’re still minor⁵.

Moreover, some problems are best treated early to preserve oral health, and even subtle concerns with jaw growth or erupting teeth can be spotted and corrected before they become more complex later. It is important to note that our gums cover two-thirds of each tooth and the underlying bone that anchors the teeth which may mask conditions affecting emerging teeth.

Signs that your child may need orthodontic treatment

Types of orthodontic cases that may benefit from early intervention

Early intervention can help prevent problems from worsening by addressing underlying causes early. Some issues that orthodontists may elect to treat while a child still has baby teeth include:

The main goal of orthodontic treatment

The main goal of orthodontic treatment should be centred around attaining a functional and healthy bite. Poor alignment of teeth can lead to difficulties in chewing, speaking or biting. For some children, interceptive orthodontics is important as they may need growth guidance for bones in both upper and lower jaws to create sufficient space for permanent teeth and to correct bite.

Beyond these benefits, apart from improved self-esteem and confidence, there are also plenty of health benefits to having straighter teeth. Crooked or crowded teeth can be challenging to clean and may lead to an increase build up of plaque and bacteria⁶ increasing risk of cavities and gum diseases⁶. Also, proper jaw alignment can help give you a beautiful smile no matter your age.

Types of orthodontic treatment

Depending on your child’s condition, the orthodontist may either suggest immediate treatment or delay as it should be timed to coincide with predictable stages of dental development and physical growth.

The most common type of braces is metal braces. These are made from high-grade stainless steel and are bonded to the front of the teeth. Each time your child visits their orthodontist, the orthodontist will likely tighten their braces to move their teeth into their correct position.

Adjusting braces usually involves tightening or changing the springs, wires, or elastic bands to increase the "squeeze" needed to straighten your child’s teeth. During these adjustments, your child might also choose to change their braces' colour by choosing different coloured elastic bands.

Other popular types of braces include:

A modern alternative to braces for kids: Invisalign First™ Clear Aligners

Invisalign First™ is an early orthodontic treatment (often called Phase 1) designed for children aged 6 to 10 with mixed dentition that can help to prevent pre-existing bite issues from worsening. If your child already has a misaligned bite, Invisalign First™ can correct it and help prevent further problems in the future.

Unlike traditional fixed braces, Invisalign First™ uses a series of clear, removable plastic trays that offer a more comfortable⁷ and positive orthodontic experience for young patients.

Even though the aligners are removable, they still work faster than braces⁸. Moreover, this removability also means that your child can continue enjoying a wide variety of foods, helping them get the nutrition they need for healthy growth. It also makes it easier to brush and floss, allowing better day-to-day oral hygiene⁹,¹⁰ compared to fixed appliances which can trap food and require more complicated cleaning. In fact, kids using clear aligners for orthodontic treatment were also found to have significantly lesser plaque and gum diseases¹¹.

Phase 1 treatment with Invisalign First™ focuses on guiding jaw growth, creating space for existing and incoming permanent teeth, and gently expanding the dental arches.

Put simply, Phase 1 helps build the foundation for a healthy smile by aligning teeth early and widening the palate (the roof of the mouth) when needed, setting the stage for proper development as your child grows, which makes Phase 2 relatively straightforward. Once Phase 1 is completed, your child’s paediatric orthodontist will assess and determine if they are ready for Phase 2 which involves the regular Invisalign aligners.

To learn more about Phase 2 treatment, click for a more comprehensive guide to clear aligners.

Similar to the regular Invisalign aligners, Invisalign First™ aligners are also made with SmartTrack™ material, which is specially engineered to move teeth safely and effectively, and is clinically proven to improve tooth movement with more predictability¹².

Parents nurture every part of their child’s growth, so don't forget about their smile too! A confident smile can make all the difference in a child’s life. More importantly, straighter teeth are an investment in your child’s future. By addressing misalignment early with treatments like Invisalign First™, your child is not just benefitting from a confidence smile, you’re also helping them to set the foundations for better oral health, hygiene⁶ and less costly dental issues in the future³.