Why Your Child Should See an Orthodontist by Age 7

What we can see at age 7

By age seven most children have their first permanent molars and several permanent front teeth. That gives an orthodontist enough information to evaluate how the upper and lower jaws are growing, whether there’s enough room for adult teeth and how the bite fits together front-to-back and side-to-side.

Most kids just need a check-up

An early screening doesn’t mean early braces. In most cases we simply schedule free growth check-ups every six to twelve months until the right time for treatment. Parents leave with peace of mind and a clear picture of what to expect.

When early treatment helps

Some issues are much easier to correct while a child is growing: crossbites, severe crowding, narrow upper jaws, protruding front teeth and habits like thumb sucking. Until around age nine, the upper jaw can be widened with an expander before the growth plates fuse — something that is far more difficult later.

Addressing these problems early can reduce the risk of chipped teeth, avoid the need for extractions and shorten future treatment.

Schedule a free screening

Children’s screenings are always free at our Gresham, Camas, Sandy and Tualatin offices. Visits are relaxed and kid-friendly, and Dr. Gaby is happy to explain everything in English or Spanish.