Most children who come in for an early evaluation don't need treatment yet — but a timely visit to our Evanston office can reveal developing problems that are far easier to address early than later. When Dr. Kim sees a child, she's not looking to begin treatment. She's looking to understand what's coming and give you the information to decide whether to act now, wait, or simply monitor.
Why age 7?
By age 7, the first permanent molars have typically erupted, establishing the back bite. This lets us evaluate the relationship between upper and lower jaws, identify incoming crowding, and spot issues that respond best to early intervention.
At this age, we can often identify crossbites, underbites, severe crowding, and habits like thumb-sucking or mouth breathing that may affect jaw development. Some of these conditions are much simpler to correct in a growing child than in a teenager or adult.
Signs worth evaluating earlier
Phase 1: Interceptive treatment
If early treatment is recommended, it's typically called Phase 1 — a limited course of treatment aimed at addressing a specific developmental issue. It does not replace later comprehensive treatment; it sets the stage for it.
Palate Expanders
A custom appliance that widens the upper jaw over several months, creating space for incoming permanent teeth and correcting crossbites.
Space Maintainers
When a baby tooth is lost too early, a maintainer holds the space open so permanent teeth can erupt in the right position.
Limited Braces
Partial braces on specific teeth to address a targeted issue — not a full treatment, but a focused correction before comprehensive care begins.
Not every child who comes in needs treatment
The majority of children who come in for an early evaluation are told to wait. Knowing that you're on track — and when to check back — is a valuable outcome on its own. We'll give you a clear picture and let you decide how to proceed.
After Phase 1: the resting period
Following interceptive treatment, there's typically a monitoring period while the remaining permanent teeth come in. We'll see your child for periodic check-ins — usually every six to twelve months — to assess development.
Most children who complete Phase 1 will still benefit from Phase 2 (comprehensive treatment) when they're older. The goal of Phase 1 is not to avoid later treatment but to make it shorter, simpler, and more effective.
Common questions about children's orthodontic care
When should my child first see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first evaluation by age 7. At this stage, enough permanent teeth are present to assess the bite and identify any developing concerns — even if treatment won't begin for years.
Does my child need braces at age 7?
Most likely not. The majority of children seen for early evaluations are told to wait. The purpose of an age-7 screening is to identify the small percentage of cases where early intervention makes a meaningful difference — not to rush every child into treatment.
How long does Phase 1 treatment take?
Phase 1 (interceptive) treatment typically lasts 9 to 18 months, depending on what's being addressed. It's a targeted, limited course of treatment — not full orthodontic care. Most children who complete Phase 1 still go on to comprehensive (Phase 2) treatment in their teen years.
Will my child still need braces after Phase 1?
Usually yes. Phase 1 is designed to correct a specific developing issue — not to replace comprehensive treatment. The benefit is that Phase 2 treatment tends to be shorter, less complex, and more effective when the groundwork has been laid early.
Schedule an evaluation
An evaluation takes about an hour and gives you a complete picture of your child's dental development. There's no obligation to begin treatment — just information to help you plan.
Book a Smile Consultation