Your child's first orthodontic check, around age 7.
Seven sounds early. Most second graders still have a mouth full of baby teeth. That's exactly why orthodontists like to take a first look then.
By Dr. Kevin Baharvand, DMD, MS · Board-certified orthodontist · Reviewed October 2026The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic check by about age seven, or sooner if you notice something. It's an exam, not a commitment. Most kids leave with "let's look again later." A smaller group has a jaw or bite problem that's much easier to fix while they're still growing.
What's visible at seven
By around seven, the first permanent molars have come in and the front adult teeth are on their way. That's enough to see how the bite is forming and whether there will be room for the teeth still coming. And the jaws are still growing, which is the part you can't get back later.
Some problems are about the teeth themselves, and those can usually wait. Others are about how the upper and lower jaws are developing. A narrow upper jaw is the common example. In a young child it can often be widened with an expander. Once the seam in the middle of the palate starts to fuse, usually sometime in the teen years or later, a standard expander stops working as well. More on expanders.
What the orthodontist looks for
- Crossbites, where upper teeth bite inside the lower ones. A back crossbite can make the jaw slide to one side every time your child closes.
- Space. Severe crowding at seven usually means there won't be enough room later either.
- Teeth heading the wrong way. Upper canines are the ones to watch. Spotting one off course early can sometimes prevent a much bigger fix.
- Habits. A thumb habit or a tongue that pushes forward can open the bite over time.
- Breathing. Constant mouth breathing or snoring is worth mentioning. Sometimes it relates to jaw shape. Sometimes the right next call is the pediatrician or an ENT.
Not every finding needs treatment now
This is worth being a little skeptical about, anywhere you go.
Early treatment, often called Phase 1, makes sense when a problem gets worse with growth or is simpler to correct now. A crossbite that's shifting the jaw qualifies. So does a narrow upper jaw. Crooked front teeth by themselves usually don't.
If an office recommends treatment for a young child, ask what happens if you wait a year. A good answer is specific. A vague one is a reason to get a second opinion, and the first visit at Elate is free if you want one.
Book sooner than seven if you see this
- Lower front teeth biting in front of the uppers
- The jaw shifting sideways on closing
- Front teeth that don't meet when the back teeth do
- Baby teeth lost much earlier or later than classmates
- A thumb or finger habit still going after the adult front teeth arrive
When someone else brings the kids.
Visits happen on weekday afternoons, so sometimes a grandparent or another relative does the driving. That works fine. A few things make it smoother.
Korean or English
Dr. Kang can explain findings in Korean to whoever brings your child. About Dr. Kang.
Parent consent
A parent or guardian should be at the first visit, or have consent arranged in advance. Ask the office how they handle it.
No goopy trays
Digital scans and photos. Most kids find it easy.
Free first visit
Exam, scans, and a plan. If nothing's needed yet, you'll hear that. What to expect.
For cleanings and checkups, Elate's sister practice Tribute Family Dentistry sees kids at the West Frisco building on FM 423.
Common questions
Does my 7-year-old need braces?
Usually not. Most children seen at seven are told to come back for another check later. A smaller group has a problem, such as a crossbite or a narrow upper jaw, that is easier to correct while the jaw is still growing.
What is Phase 1 orthodontic treatment?
Phase 1 is early treatment for a specific problem in a young child, often with an appliance such as a palate expander. It does not always replace full treatment later.
Should I get a second opinion if early treatment is recommended?
It is reasonable to ask what happens if you wait a year. If the answer is not specific, a second opinion is a sensible step.
Talk to an orthodontist near Carrollton.
The first visit at Elate Orthodontics is free, in English or Korean. Scans, an exam with the doctor, and exact pricing.