Your child’s smile is constantly changing, and those changes can reveal a lot about how their teeth, bite, and jaw are developing. Just as regular visits to the pediatrician help track physical growth, an early orthodontic checkup can identify small issues before they develop into more significant, complex, and costly problems down the road. 

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child see an orthodontist by age seven, even if everything looks fine on the surface. That’s because many orthodontic issues, like dental crowding, crossbites, or jaw misalignment, can develop quietly beneath the gumline. Early intervention with Phase I orthodontic treatment, also known as early orthodontics, significantly reduces the severity of malocclusions and can simplify or shorten orthodontic treatments later on. 

Read on to get answers to the top questions parents ask about early orthodontics, why acting early could make all the difference for your child’s smile, and where to find the best orthodontist in Palo Alto for early orthodontic checkups and treatment.

What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment?

Early orthodontic treatment is a proactive approach that begins before all of a child’s permanent teeth have come in, typically between the ages of six and 10. At this stage, an orthodontist can spot signs of developing problems like: 

  • An uneven bite, including cross bites, overbites, and underbites
  • Jaw growth issues
  • Overcrowding
  • Severe rotation in permanent teeth 
  • Missing permanent teeth 

Instead of waiting until all the adult teeth are in and problems are harder to fix, early orthodontic treatment sets a healthy foundation for your child’s future smile by working with your child’s natural growth to guide things in the right direction. This may involve using dental expanders to widen the jaw, partial braces to move specific teeth, or space maintainers to maintain space for permanent teeth still to come. 

Signs Your Child May Need Early Orthodontics

Some signs that your child might need early orthodontic treatment aren’t always obvious, but paying attention to certain habits or patterns can help you catch issues early:

  • If your child loses baby teeth very early, usually before age five, or very late, like after puberty, it could be a sign that their jaw or teeth aren’t developing as they should. 
  • Even if baby teeth are crowded, crooked, or stick out, that may indicate that adult teeth won’t have enough room to come in properly. 
  • You might also notice more subtle signs, like jaw clicking when your child chews, frequent mouth breathing, or trouble biting and chewing food. These can all point to underlying bite or alignment problems. 

What Are the Benefits of Starting Orthodontic Treatment Early?

One of the biggest benefits is that it helps guide proper jaw growth and facial development, which can reduce the chances of needing extensive orthodontic work, oral surgery, or tooth extractions down the road. By correcting bite problems early, kids can also chew more comfortably and speak more clearly, which supports everything from digestion to confidence in the classroom. 

Lastly, let’s be honest, kids notice when their teeth look different. Addressing visible dental issues early can boost your child’s self-esteem and help prevent teasing or bullying from peers. Early treatment provides your child with the tools to develop a smile that grows with comfort, confidence, and fewer complications later.

Will My Child Still Need Braces Later?

Many parents wonder if early orthodontic treatment means their child won’t need braces later, and the answer depends on the child’s specific needs. Early orthodontic treatment is designed to correct major issues early, such as jaw growth or severe crowding. A second phase, after most of the permanent teeth have erupted, may be needed during the teenage years to fine-tune alignment with full braces or clear aligners. However, early treatment can make that second phase much shorter, simpler, and more comfortable. In some cases, early orthodontic treatment can even eliminate the need for teen braces altogether.

When Should I Schedule My Child’s First Orthodontic Appointment? 

Even if your child’s teeth look straight, scheduling their first checkup by age seven is highly recommended. At this age, a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth is present, giving orthodontists a clear view of how the mouth is developing. Just because you book a visit doesn’t mean your child will need braces right away; often, early evaluations are simply used to monitor growth and spot any potential problems before they become harder to fix. 

Where to Find the Best Orthodontist in Palo Alto for Early Orthodontics 

Choosing the right orthodontist for your child is about more than straight teeth; it’s about trust, expertise, and a thoughtful approach to care. At Merna Tajaddod Orthodontics, we take early treatment seriously because we know how much it shapes a child’s long-term oral health and confidence. 

‍Dr. Merna Tajaddod brings world-class training from the University of Pennsylvania and Harvard, along with years of experience treating even the most complex cases with precision and care. With her extensive education and experience, Dr. Tajaddod uses advanced imaging and digital scanning to design customized care that’s as unique as your child’s smile. Our family-friendly Palo Alto office is built around your comfort, from flexible scheduling and financing to a warm, welcoming environment that puts kids at ease. 

If you’re searching for an orthodontic team that values thoughtful planning, cutting-edge tools, and a compassionate experience, look no further than the best orthodontist in Palo Alto.