One of the most common questions we hear from parents at Point Grey Orthodontics is some version of: ‘Is it too early to bring my child in?’ The short answer is almost always no — and in many cases, early is better.
Here is practical guidance for Westside Vancouver families on when to book a first orthodontic assessment and what to expect when you do.
The Age Seven Recommendation — What It Actually Means
The Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic assessment by age seven. This surprises many parents because most seven-year-olds still have a mouth full of baby teeth.
The reason for the early assessment is not that treatment starts at seven — it usually does not. It is that age seven is when the first adult molars typically come in, establishing the back bite. At this point, an orthodontist can evaluate the developing relationship between the upper and lower jaws, identify any early signs of crowding or bite problems, and plan ahead with much more flexibility than if we wait until all the permanent teeth are in.
What We Look For at an Early Assessment
At a first orthodontic assessment for a child, we are evaluating:
- How the upper and lower jaws are developing in relation to each other
- Whether there is enough space for permanent teeth to come in properly
- Early signs of crossbite, overbite, underbite, or open bite
- Habits like mouth breathing, thumb sucking or tongue thrusting that may be affecting facial and dental development
- Whether any teeth are missing, extra, or coming in at unusual angles
Most children who come in at seven will simply be placed on a monitoring schedule — we pride ourselves on our observation program where we track their development over time and intervene at the right moment. A smaller number benefit from early treatment, typically with a palate expander or a simple functional appliance.
Signs That Warrant an Earlier Visit
You do not have to wait until seven if you notice any of the following:
- Your child breathes predominantly through their mouth, especially at night
- You can clearly see a noticeable overbite, underbite, or asymmetry in the bite
- Teeth are visibly very crowded or widely spaced
- Your child has difficulty chewing or biting
- A thumb or finger sucking habit that has continued past age four or five
- A baby tooth was lost much earlier or continues to hold up much later than expected
If any of these apply, book a consultation sooner rather than later — earlier assessment gives us more options.
What About Teens?
The most common time for full orthodontic treatment is between ages 11 and 15, when most of the permanent teeth are in and the jaw is still actively growing. Treatment during this window tends to be faster and more straightforward than adult treatment for many cases. If your teenager has not had an orthodontic assessment yet, there is no need to wait.
Does My Child Need a Referral?
No. You can book directly with us — no referral from your family dentist is required. We will coordinate with your dentist throughout any treatment to ensure everything is co-ordinated. Consultations for children are free.
We Are Your Neighbours
Point Grey Orthodontics is on W10th Avenue in Point Grey Village, a short distance from Trimble Park, Norma Rose Point and University Hill Schools, Lord Byng Secondary, Queen Mary Elementary, West Point Grey Academy, Crofton House and the Dunbar and Kitsilano communities. We have been treating Westside Vancouver families since 1998, and we take the time to make children feel comfortable — this is not a rushed practice.
Book a free assessment for your child at pointgreyorthodontics.ca — no referral needed.