Early Treatment · Ages 7–10
The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends every child has their first orthodontic check at age seven. Most children don't need treatment that young — but the small number who do benefit enormously from early intervention.
By age seven, the first adult molars and incisors have erupted. A specialist orthodontist can see how the bite is developing, whether the jaws are growing in proportion, and whether crowding will become a problem. Catching an issue at seven is usually the difference between an interceptive plate and a full course of braces with extractions later.
When intervention is indicated, it's usually a custom removable plate or partial fixed appliance worn for 9 to 18 months. The goal isn't to straighten teeth — it's to guide growth, create space, and prevent the issue from worsening. Definitive orthodontic treatment, if needed, follows later in the teenage years.
Most don't. Roughly 80% of our age-seven consultations end with a recommendation to monitor. We schedule regular six-monthly reviews until the timing is right.
FAQs · Early Treatment (Age 7+)
It's recommended by the Australian Society of Orthodontists and the American Association of Orthodontists. Most assessments end with reassurance and a monitoring plan — the small number that don't, save the family significant time and cost down the track.
Possibly — early treatment doesn't always replace adolescent orthodontics, but it makes the second phase shorter and simpler, and often avoids extractions entirely.
Early appliances are removable plates or short-term fixed appliances. Most children adapt within a week or two with mild discomfort.
Other treatments
Modern orthodontic care for adults — discreet, efficient, results-led.
Learn moreSpecialist braces and aligners designed around busy teenage lives.
Learn moreDiscreet, removable clear aligners — fitted and supervised by a specialist orthodontist.
Learn moreTooth-coloured ceramic brackets — almost invisible at a conversational distance.
Learn moreInside · Early Treatment (Age 7+)
Book a consult
An hour-long appointment with Dr Tom — all photos and x-rays, examination, every treatment option open to you, and a written quote to take home.
