Many parents assume braces are only for teenagers, but orthodontic organisations recommend that children have an orthodontic check by around age seven. At this age, a mix of baby and adult teeth gives the dentist valuable insight into how the jaws and teeth are developing. Most children will not need treatment straight away, but some benefit greatly from early intervention.
By around age seven, the first permanent molars and front teeth have usually come through. This allows the dentist to assess the bite, spacing and jaw growth. Problems identified early can sometimes be corrected or reduced while the jaw is still growing.
Crossbites, severe crowding, protruding front teeth at risk of injury, underbites, open bites linked to habits such as thumb sucking, and early or late loss of baby teeth may benefit from early treatment.
Phase one treatment may use appliances such as expanders, space maintainers or partial braces. The goal is to guide jaw growth, create space or correct specific problems. A second phase of treatment with full braces may still be needed later, but it is often simpler and shorter.
Many children are simply monitored with regular check-ups until more permanent teeth come through. Waiting can be the best choice when problems are mild or likely to resolve naturally.
Mouth breathing, difficulty chewing, thumb sucking beyond age five, crowded or misplaced teeth, jaws that shift when opening or closing, and teeth that do not meet properly are all reasons to book an assessment.
Some childhood habits can influence how the teeth and jaws develop. Prolonged thumb sucking, pacifier use beyond toddler years, tongue thrusting when swallowing and mouth breathing can all affect the shape of the upper jaw and the position of the teeth. Mouth breathing, often linked to enlarged tonsils, adenoids or allergies, may contribute to a narrow upper jaw. Identifying these habits early allows them to be addressed, sometimes with help from a doctor or ENT specialist. Breaking habits before permanent teeth come through often prevents or reduces the need for more complex orthodontic treatment later.
When a baby tooth is lost early due to decay or injury, neighbouring teeth can drift into the space, blocking the path of the adult tooth. A space maintainer is a small appliance that holds the gap open until the permanent tooth erupts. Using space maintainers when needed can prevent crowding and reduce the complexity of future orthodontic treatment. This is one reason why caring for baby teeth is so important. Regular check-ups allow your dentist to monitor tooth development and recommend a space maintainer at the right time if a baby tooth has to be removed early.
Children are more cooperative when they understand what is happening. Explain in simple, positive terms that the dentist will help their teeth grow in the right places. Avoid describing treatment as painful or scary. Let them ask questions and involve them in choices, such as appliance colours where available. Praise them for wearing appliances and keeping them clean. Some children enjoy keeping a progress chart or taking photos. Being consistent and supportive helps children take responsibility for their treatment, which can make a big difference to how quickly and successfully early orthodontic treatment works.
Most children do not, but an early check helps identify problems that may benefit from early treatment.
Sometimes, but many children still need a shorter second phase of treatment.
An appliance that gently widens the upper jaw to create space or correct a crossbite.
Book an orthodontic check for your child with our team. Learn more about metal braces in Al Ain.
Call 03 751 0245 WhatsApp 056 536 4536 Email Us