Parents often wonder whether crowded teeth, spacing, or an unusual bite mean their child needs braces. An early orthodontic evaluation can provide answers, even when treatment is not yet necessary. 

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children receive their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, an orthodontist can evaluate how the permanent teeth, jaws, bite, and facial structures are developing. 

Does an Evaluation at Age 7 Mean Treatment Will Begin? 

No. Many children do not need immediate treatment. In those cases, periodic growth and development appointments allow the orthodontist to monitor tooth eruption and recommend treatment only if and when it becomes beneficial. 

Early evaluation is especially helpful when a child has: 

  • Crowded or overlapping teeth 
  • A crossbite, underbite, or significant overbite 
  • Protruding front teeth 
  • A narrow upper arch 
  • Early or delayed loss of baby teeth 
  • Teeth that are not erupting normally 
  • Jaw shifting or facial asymmetry 
  • Difficulty biting or chewing 
  • Persistent thumb-sucking or another oral habit

What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment? 

Early orthodontic treatment (also called Phase I or interceptive treatment), addresses a specific problem while a child is still growing. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may be used to correct a crossbite, create room for permanent teeth, improve arch width, guide tooth eruption, or address a developing bite concern. 

Not every child needs Phase I treatment, and early care does not guarantee that braces or aligners will be unnecessary later. Its purpose is to address problems that may be easier or more beneficial to treat during growth. 

An Individualized Approach in our Palo Alto Office 

Dr. Merna Tajaddod is a board-certified orthodontist with more than 20 years of clinical experience and extensive experience in early and interceptive orthodontics. Her approach

considers the teeth, bite, jaw development, facial balance, arch width, and stage of growth before treatment is recommended. 

Knowing when to monitor a child can be just as important as knowing when to treat. 

If you have questions about your child’s developing smile, schedule a complimentary orthodontic consultation at Merna Tajaddod Orthodontics in Palo Alto. Call us at 650-854-8888 or inquire on our website.