The Benefits of Early Orthodontic Diagnosis and Treatment: What Parents Should Know


Orthodontics isn’t just for teenagers. In fact, the foundation for a healthy, well-aligned smile often begins much earlier. According to the Australian Society of Orthodontists, children should have their first orthodontic assessment by the age of 7. But why so early?

In this blog, we explore the benefits of early orthodontic diagnosis and treatment through a “People Also Ask” format, addressing the most common questions parents have about early orthodontic care.

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Why is early orthodontic diagnosis important?

Early orthodontic diagnosis allows a dental professional to detect potential problems with the development of a child’s teeth, jaw, and bite before they become more complicated. By assessing the growth patterns of the jaw and eruption of teeth at an early stage, orthodontists can intervene proactively—sometimes even eliminating the need for more extensive treatment later on.

Some issues that can be spotted early include:

  • Crowded or crooked teeth

  • Bite problems (underbite, overbite, crossbite, open bite)

  • Jaw growth discrepancies

  • Early or late loss of baby teeth

  • Habits such as thumb sucking that affect oral development

Early diagnosis is a preventative step—it gives parents and practitioners time to make informed decisions about if, when, and how to treat developing orthodontic issues.

What are the benefits of early orthodontic treatment?

Early orthodontic treatment, often referred to as Phase 1 treatment, is typically started around ages 7–10 and can offer several long-term benefits:

1. Guides Jaw Growth and Development

At a younger age, a child’s bones are still growing and more responsive to orthodontic appliances. Treatment can guide jaw development to improve bite alignment and facial symmetry.

2. Creates Space for Incoming Teeth

When addressed early, crowding can often be avoided. Orthodontists may use expanders or partial braces to create adequate space for the adult teeth to erupt correctly.

3. Reduces the Need for Future Extractions or Surgery

By guiding growth and eruption, early treatment can sometimes prevent the need for permanent tooth extractions or jaw surgery in teenage years.

4. Improves Facial Aesthetics and Self-Esteem

Correcting visible issues early can have a big psychological impact on children. When a child is not self-conscious about their teeth, their confidence tends to grow as well.

5. Corrects Harmful Oral Habits

Early intervention can help break thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, and other habits that may cause long-term dental complications if left unaddressed.

What is Phase 1 orthodontic treatment?

Phase 1 treatment, also known as interceptive orthodontics, is performed while a child still has a mix of baby and permanent teeth. The goal is to address significant problems early on—especially those that may worsen over time if left untreated.

Common Phase 1 treatments include:

  • Palatal expanders to widen the upper jaw

  • Partial braces to align front teeth

  • Functional appliances to correct jaw alignment

  • Space maintainers for early tooth loss

After Phase 1, a child may not need further treatment for several years, or they may move on to Phase 2, typically during adolescence, to fine-tune alignment.

🦷 Star Dental Care

📍 61 Lord Street, Port Macquarie, NSW
📞   02 6583 6111

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