Orthodontics for Children by Age: 7–9, 10–12 & 13+

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Orthodontics for Children by Age: 7–9, 10–12 & 13+ | Othman Orthodontics in Lombard & Orland Park, IL

Orthodontics for Children by Age: 7–9, 10–12 & 13+

Parents often ask, “When should my child see an orthodontist?” and “What should I expect at each age?”

At Othman Orthodontics, we follow the American Association of Orthodontists recommendation that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. But that doesn’t mean every child needs braces right away.

This age-based guide will help you understand:

  • What happens at ages 7–9, 10–12 and 13+ in orthodontic care
  • Which problems we look for at each stage
  • When early treatment (Phase I) is helpful—and when monitoring is enough

Ages 7–9: Early Evaluation & Growth Guidance

Around ages 7–9, many children have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth. This is the best time for an early orthodontic evaluation.

What We Look For at 7–9

  • Crossbites (upper teeth biting inside lower teeth).
  • Severe crowding or spacing.
  • Protruding front teeth at high risk of trauma.
  • Open bites or underbites.
  • Habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting affecting the bite.
  • Early or late loss of baby teeth.

At this age, we’re mainly checking whether growth and eruption are on track or if early (Phase I) treatment is needed.

When Phase I Treatment Might Be Recommended

Phase I (interceptive) treatment may be suggested if:

  • The upper jaw is too narrow and needs a palatal expander.
  • There is a crossbite causing the lower jaw to shift to one side.
  • Crowding is so severe that permanent teeth may become impacted.
  • There is a very large overjet (“buck teeth”) increasing risk of injury.
  • Habits are significantly affecting the bite or jaw growth.

Phase I treatment typically lasts 6–18 months and focuses on guiding growth—not perfecting every tooth.

When We Simply Monitor

If everything looks okay, we may:

  • Reassure you that no treatment is needed yet.
  • Schedule periodic checkups to monitor growth and eruption.

Ages 10–12: Transition to More Permanent Teeth

At ages 10–12, most children are in a transition phase:

  • More permanent teeth are erupting.
  • Jaws are still growing actively.

This is a key window to plan whether comprehensive (Phase II) treatment is needed.

What We Look For at 10–12

  • Alignment of permanent front teeth and emerging premolars.
  • Bite relationships: overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite.
  • Jaw growth patterns (is one jaw ahead of the other?).
  • Any crowding or spacing that’s becoming more pronounced.

Possible Treatment Options at This Stage

Depending on timing and eruption, options might include:

  • Continued monitoring if we’re still waiting for key teeth.
  • Beginning full braces (Phase II) on many or most permanent teeth.
  • Using appliances (like headgear, elastics or functional appliances) to help guide jaw relationships.

For some kids who had Phase I treatment earlier, this stage is mainly about monitoring and planning the ideal start time for Phase II.

Ages 13+: Comprehensive Braces or Invisalign Teen

By age 13+, most or all permanent teeth have erupted. This is when many kids start full orthodontic treatment:

Goals of Treatment at 13+

  • Align all permanent teeth.
  • Correct bite relationships (overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite).
  • Improve function, speech and esthetics.
  • Create a healthy, stable smile that will last into adulthood.

Braces vs Invisalign Teen

We help families and teens choose between:

  • Braces – always working, no need to remember to wear them; great for many complex cases.
  • Invisalign Teen – removable, nearly invisible, good for responsible teens who can wear aligners consistently.

How Parents Can Help at Each Stage

At 7–9

  • Schedule that first orthodontic evaluation.
  • Watch for signs like crowding, crossbite or habits.
  • Encourage good brushing and flossing habits early.

At 10–12

  • Keep regular dental and orthodontic checkups.
  • Encourage your child to ask questions and be involved.
  • Discuss timing of braces/Invisalign and school or activity schedules.

At 13+

  • Support proper care of braces or aligners (hygiene, elastics, aligner wear).
  • Plan meals and snacks that work with orthodontic guidelines.
  • Celebrate progress—photos can be very motivating!

Children’s Orthodontics in Lombard & Orland Park, IL

Lombard Office

Our Lombard office provides orthodontics for children and teens, including Phase I and Phase II treatment, for families in Lombard, Downers Grove, Elmhurst, Wheaton, Villa Park, Oak Brook, Oakbrook Terrace, Hinsdale, Westmont, Lisle, Naperville.

Orland Park Office

Our Orland Park location offers the same age-specific care for children and teens in Orland Park, Tinley Park, Palos Heights, Palos Park, Homer Glen, Oak Forest, Mokena, Frankfort, New Lenox, Lockport.

Not Sure If It’s the Right Time for Your Child?

Whether your child is 7, 10 or 14, an orthodontic evaluation can give you clarity and a roadmap for their smile.

Schedule an orthodontic consultation in Lombard, IL or an orthodontic consultation in Orland Park, IL with Othman Orthodontics.

We’ll explain what’s happening at your child’s current stage, whether treatment or monitoring is best, and how to time orthodontic care so their smile grows in the healthiest way possible.

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