Your child's teeth and jaws change continuously over the years. The age timeline on this page summarises the signs families may notice at each stage and when an orthodontist might be consulted. Choose an age range to see the notes for that stage. This tool does not produce medical recommendations; the information stays only in your browser and is not sent anywhere.
The generally accepted approach is for the first orthodontic assessment to take place around age 7. By this age, in most children the first permanent molars and front incisors have started to come through, which allows the orthodontist to assess jaw development and the positioning of the teeth better. An assessment does not always mean treatment will start; in most cases only monitoring is recommended.
Signs to watch for by age
Choose the age range you want to see.
Ages 3–6: the baby teeth stage
- A thumb-sucking, dummy or bottle habit continuing after age 3–4
- Sleeping with the mouth open, snoring or frequent mouth breathing during the day
- A gap left between the upper and lower teeth when the front teeth close
- The lower teeth coming in front of the upper teeth when biting, or the jaw sliding to one side
- Decay in baby teeth or a baby tooth lost early
- Consulting a clinician: if one of these signs is noticed, it can be raised at a regular dental check-up
Ages 6–7: the start of the mixed dentition
- Baby incisors falling out and permanent incisors coming through
- Permanent teeth coming through behind the baby teeth before they fall out
- Whether the first permanent molars have come through and how they fit together
- Lack of space or marked crowding for the permanent incisors
- Crossbite: some upper teeth sitting inside the lower teeth
- Consulting an orthodontist: the stage usually recommended for a first orthodontic assessment
Ages 8–10: the stage when growth can be guided
- Upper front teeth sticking out markedly or the lips not closing
- The lower jaw looking set back or forward
- Early loss of baby molars and the gap starting to close
- Habits such as tongue thrusting or mouth breathing continuing
- A narrow palate or wide dark spaces at the sides when smiling
- Consulting an orthodontist: if considered necessary, the orthodontist may plan early treatment or monitoring
Ages 11–13: the move to the permanent dentition
- Canine teeth not coming through, or coming through in the wrong place
- The last baby teeth not falling out for a long time
- A deep bite, open bite or marked crowding in the front teeth
- Gaps between the teeth or rotated teeth
- Differences in the jaw relationship at this stage, as the growth spurt approaches
- Consulting an orthodontist: comprehensive treatment planning comes up at this stage in most cases
Age 14 and over: the teenage years
- Nearly all the permanent teeth having come through
- Concerns about crowding, bite problems or the appearance of the smile
- Clicking, pain or difficulty opening the mouth in the jaw joint area
- Impacted or unerupted teeth
- Daily life, school and sports routines when choosing a treatment method
- Consulting an orthodontist: treatment can be assessed at any age; the method is determined by an orthodontic examination
Why do habits matter?
When habits such as thumb sucking, using a dummy, tongue thrusting and mouth breathing continue for a long time, they can affect the alignment of the teeth and the development of the jaws. The effect of these habits varies with how long and how often they occur and with the child's growth pattern. For details, see our articles on thumb-sucking and dummy habits and mouth breathing in children. Mouth breathing may also require an ear, nose and throat assessment; your orthodontist will refer you if necessary.
If a baby tooth is lost early
Baby teeth hold space for the permanent teeth coming in underneath. When a baby molar is lost early because of decay or injury, the neighbouring teeth can drift into the gap and the space for the permanent tooth can narrow. In this case, the orthodontist may consider using a space maintainer to keep the space open.
Which treatments may come up at this stage?
The orthodontic approach in children is built on monitoring growth and guiding it when needed. Depending on the orthodontist's assessment, palatal expansion, removable appliances, functional appliances or, in suitable cases, clear aligners may be planned. For an overview, see our pages on orthodontic treatment for children, on why timing matters, early orthodontic treatment, and on the clear aligner approach used in the 6–10 age group, Invisalign First.
Practical tips for families
- Look at your child's mouth together in the mirror at regular intervals; note any changes that catch your attention.
- If you notice your child sleeping with their mouth open or snoring, mention it at the examination.
- Do not neglect the care of baby teeth; decay can lead to space loss.
- Come to the examination with information about any significant illnesses your child has had and medicines they take.
- If siblings or parents have a similar jaw structure, tell the orthodontist.
Frequently asked questions
Does every child examined at age 7 need treatment?
No. For most children at this age, only monitoring of development is recommended. If the orthodontist sees a problem, they plan the timing of treatment according to the growth stage.
Baby teeth will be replaced anyway. Does crowding matter?
Some irregularities in baby teeth can correct themselves; others may continue in the permanent teeth. The orthodontist decides at the examination which ones should be monitored.
What can I do if my child won't stop thumb sucking?
Positive encouragement and patience usually work better than pressure. If the habit continues for a long time, the orthodontist may assess the situation and suggest supportive methods.
Can clear aligners be used in children?
They can be used in suitable cases and when the orthodontist considers them appropriate. The child's ability to wear the aligners consistently and the family's follow-up are important for this decision.
For questions, you can call 0312 911 60 36 or use the form on the contact page.
This page is for general information only; diagnosis and the treatment plan are determined by an examination and your orthodontist's assessment.
