For many parents, orthodontic treatment feels like something to think about in the teenage years—but experts recommend an earlier start. The American Association of Orthodontists advises children to have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. While that may seem early, these initial visits are all about monitoring growth and identifying potential issues before they become more complex.

In Encino, where families balance busy school schedules and extracurriculars, knowing when and why to schedule that first orthodontic visit can make a big difference in your child’s long-term oral health.

Why Age 7 Is the Ideal Time for an Orthodontic Checkup

By age 7, most children have a mix of baby and permanent teeth. This transitional phase allows orthodontists to spot early signs of problems with jaw development, bite alignment, and spacing—even if all the adult teeth haven’t come in yet.

Early evaluations aren’t always about starting treatment right away. In many cases, your child may not need braces or aligners until later. But identifying potential concerns early can lead to simpler, shorter treatment in the future—or even prevent the need for it altogether.

What Can Be Detected in an Early Evaluation?

A trained orthodontic specialist can evaluate a variety of developmental patterns during early childhood. Some of the most common issues identified during an early assessment include:

• Crowding or spacing issues
• Misaligned bites (overbite, underbite, crossbite)
• Jaw growth imbalances
• Prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier habits
• Early loss of baby teeth
• Teeth not erupting in the correct position

Catching these issues early can help guide the growth of the jaw and ensure the permanent teeth come in properly.

The Benefits of Early Intervention (If Needed)

In some cases, an orthodontist may recommend Phase 1 treatment, which typically takes place between ages 7 and 10. This early stage of treatment can involve expanders, partial braces, or space maintainers, depending on your child’s needs.

Benefits of early intervention may include:

• Reducing the severity or length of future treatment
• Creating space for crowded teeth
• Improving jaw alignment and facial symmetry
• Correcting harmful habits before they affect permanent teeth
• Boosting self-esteem at a formative age

Even if no immediate treatment is needed, your child’s orthodontist can continue to monitor growth and step in if anything starts to shift in the wrong direction.

Common Misconceptions About Early Orthodontic Visits

“My child still has baby teeth, so it’s too soon.”
Not true. Early evaluations focus on the developing bite and jaw—issues that can’t always be seen with the naked eye.

“They’ll grow out of it.”
While some issues may self-correct, many don’t. Waiting too long can make problems harder (and more expensive) to treat.

“Braces are only for teens.”
Modern orthodontics includes preventive and interceptive treatments designed specifically for younger children. Braces or other appliances at an early age may set the stage for a healthier, more effective treatment later.

What to Expect During the First Visit

An early orthodontic evaluation is gentle, informative, and entirely focused on observation. During your child’s appointment, the orthodontist will:

• Review dental and medical history
• Perform a visual exam of the teeth and bite
• Take X-rays or digital scans if needed
• Discuss any findings and whether treatment is recommended now or later

In most cases, no immediate action is taken. Instead, the orthodontist may suggest periodic checkups to monitor your child’s growth and tooth development.

How Encino Parents Can Stay Ahead

Encino families have no shortage of things on their calendars—from after-school activities to homework and weekend events. But prioritizing an early orthodontic visit can help avoid unexpected challenges later.

Here are a few ways to stay proactive:

• Schedule an evaluation around age 7—even if there are no visible issues
• Talk to your child’s general dentist about referral recommendations
• Be aware of habits like thumb-sucking or mouth breathing
• Watch for crowding, bite issues, or speech difficulties

Taking these steps early can give you peace of mind and ensure your child’s smile develops in the healthiest way possible.

Wondering If It’s Time for Your Child’s First Orthodontic Visit?

You don’t need to wait until all the adult teeth are in—or until a dentist suggests braces. Getting an early evaluation is a smart, simple step that can set your child up for long-term success.

At Dr. Bita Orthodontic Group in Encino, we welcome young patients for friendly, pressure-free assessments to help parents make confident, informed decisions. Reach out today to schedule your child’s first orthodontic checkup and take the first step toward a bright, healthy future.