The Common Question: When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?
At Royal Orthodontics, one of the most frequent questions parents ask is: “What is the best age to start orthodontic treatment?”
The answer is earlier than many expect. According to the Canadian Association of Orthodontists, the ideal time for a first orthodontic evaluation is age 7.
Age 7: The Perfect Time for a First Checkup
By age 7, most children have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth. This combination gives orthodontists a clear view of how the smile and jaws are developing.
An early evaluation at this age makes it possible to:
- Identify early alignment or bite concerns
- Monitor jaw growth and development
- Catch habits such as thumb-sucking that may interfere with dental progress
It is important to note that most children do not need braces or Invisalign at this stage. However, this first visit provides peace of mind for parents and a chance to prevent more serious problems later. Early detection often leads to simpler and shorter treatments in the future.
When Does Orthodontic Treatment Usually Begin?
For many children, orthodontic treatment starts between ages 11 and 14, once most permanent teeth have erupted. At this point, orthodontists can effectively correct crowding, spacing, and bite concerns with braces or Invisalign.
Every child is different:
- Some may benefit from early intervention, such as expanders or limited braces, if significant jaw or bite issues are present.
- Others may not require treatment until their teenage years, when full braces or Invisalign are enough to create a healthy and straight smile.
That first checkup at age 7 gives families a roadmap of what to expect in the years ahead.
Orthodontic Treatment for Teenagers
The teenage years are the most common stage to begin treatment. With permanent teeth in place, orthodontists can create a complete plan tailored to the patient’s needs.
Options for teens include:
- Traditional braces, which remain highly effective for all types of cases
- Clear braces that provide a more subtle appearance
- Invisalign® Teen, which uses clear aligners designed for active lifestyles
Treatment at this age not only improves appearance but also supports long-term dental health by correcting the bite and preventing uneven wear on teeth.
What About Adults? It Is Never Too Late
Straightening teeth is not only for children and teens. More adults are choosing orthodontic treatment than ever before, thanks to modern and discreet solutions.
- Invisalign® for adults provides nearly invisible aligners that fit seamlessly into daily routines
- Clear or ceramic braces blend in with natural teeth
- Traditional braces remain the best choice for more complex cases
Orthodontic care at any age can improve confidence, function, and overall oral health. At Royal Orthodontics, we are proud to treat patients of every age, from young children to grandparents.
The Benefits of Early Orthodontic Evaluation
Scheduling an orthodontic checkup at age 7 does not mean treatment is guaranteed. What it does mean is that parents receive expert guidance early. The benefits include:
- Early identification of bite or alignment issues
- The possibility of shorter treatment times later
- Greater peace of mind for families
- Flexible options for future orthodontic planning
The Bottom Line
So, what is the best age to start orthodontic treatment? The Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial evaluation at age 7. While treatment may not begin until ages 11 to 14, that first visit provides valuable insight and planning. Teens and adults also benefit greatly from braces or Invisalign, showing that it is never too late to achieve a healthier smile.
At Royal Orthodontics, we welcome patients of all ages and provide customized treatment options for every stage of life. If you are ready to learn more about your child’s smile or considering treatment for yourself, schedule a consultation with our team today.