Early Orthodontic Treatment
Why age 7 matters
Around age 7, your child has a mix of baby and adult teeth. A short visit lets us check bite, crowding and jaw growth. If everything is on track, we’ll simply schedule review visits. If we see something developing, we can plan gentle interceptive treatment to guide growth and reduce future complexity.
Good to know: An early check does not mean your child will get braces right away. The goal is the right treatment at the right time.
Signs your child may benefit from early treatment
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Crowded or overlapping front teeth (around ages 7–9)
- Crossbite, underbite or open bite
- Protruding front teeth (risk of knocks/chips)
- Mouth breathing or snoring
- Thumb or finger sucking after age 5
- Difficulty chewing, or speech lisp
- Jaw shifting to one side when biting
Unsure? Bring your child in for a friendly, no pressure check.
Monitoring without treatment
For many kids, the best plan is simply to wait and watch with 6–12 month reviews. This ensures we start comprehensive treatment at the ideal time—often resulting in shorter treatment and fewer extractions.
Meet your orthodontists

Dr Eva Low
Specialist Orthodontist with extensive experience in early and complex cases.

Dr Priyanka Ponna
Specialist Orthodontist with a caring, child friendly approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best age for the first orthodontic visit?
Around age 7, when adult teeth start to appear. Earlier checks are fine if you notice concerns.
Does an age 7 check mean we need braces now?
Not usually. Many children only need monitoring until their teens.
How long does early treatment take?
Interceptive phases are typically months rather than years, depending on the appliance and growth.
Are early appliances comfortable?
There’s an adjustment period. We’ll show you easy cleaning and comfort tips; most kids adapt quickly.
How much does it cost?
Fees vary by appliance. We’ll provide a written quote and item codes so you can check health fund rebates.
Do we still see our family dentist?
Yes. Regular dental check ups and cleans are important during any orthodontic treatment.
Contact Us
Give your child the best start with a healthy smile.
