May 20, 2025

When should my child see an orthodontist?

If you’re a parent wondering when to book your child’s first orthodontic appointment, you’re not alone. Many parents believe orthodontic treatment doesn’t begin until the teenage years - but in reality, there’s a strong case for starting earlier.

At Mysmile Orthodontics, we support the Australian Society of Orthodontists’ recommendation that children should have their first orthodontic assessment around age 7. But this doesn’t mean braces at 7 - it means checking in early to ensure everything is developing as it should.

Why age 7 is the sweet spot?

By the age of 7, most children have a mix of baby and adult teeth. This transitional stage allows our orthodontic team to identify potential concerns early on - like crowding, bite alignment issues, or jaw growth discrepancies - while your child’s teeth and jaw are still developing.

Seeing an orthodontist at this stage gives us time to create a roadmap for future treatment, even if active care isn’t needed right away.

Signs your child may need an early orthodontic check-up

While age is a great guideline, there are some early warning signs parents can look out for. These include:

• Early or late loss of baby teeth
• Crowded or overlapping teeth
• Difficulty biting or chewing
• Thumb or finger sucking beyond age 5
• Jaws that shift or make sounds
• Mouth breathing or speech difficulties

If you notice any of these signs, it may be worth bringing your child in sooner for an evaluation.

What happens at a child’s first orthodontic assessment?

A first visit is nothing to worry about. At Mysmile Orthodontics, your child’s first consultation is gentle, informative, and completely free.

We’ll take a look at their bite, teeth alignment, and jaw development. If everything looks great - we’ll simply monitor their growth over time. If we do spot any concerns, we’ll discuss early intervention options and develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your child’s needs and stage of development.

You can also learn more about what to expect on our children’s treatment page.

The benefits of early orthodontic assessments

Even if your child doesn’t need treatment straight away, early assessment gives you peace of mind. And if treatment is needed, addressing problems early can:

• Guide jaw growth
• Create space for incoming adult teeth
• Reduce the need for extractions later
• Prevent more serious issues down the track
• Shorten overall treatment time in the future

In short, early assessments help us take a proactive approach - not just reactive.

What treatment options are available for kids?

If your child does require early orthodontic care, we’ll walk you through the most suitable options. These may include:

• Traditional metal braces – do you prefer a subtle look or don’t mind visible brackets?
• Clear ceramic braces – some complex cases are better suited to metal braces.
• Invisalign® First – clear braces are popular with working adults; metal braces are great for active teens.

We’ll explain everything clearly, so you can make the right decision for your child and your family.

Book your child’s free consultation today

Booking an early orthodontic assessment doesn’t commit you to treatment - it simply gives you clarity. At Mysmile Orthodontics, we’re here to support you with honest advice, expert care, and a positive experience from start to finish.

Book your free consultation today and take the first step in giving your child a confident, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.