Children · Coquitlam, BC

Children’s orthodontics: assessment, growth and timing

Children do not all need early orthodontic treatment. The value of an early assessment is deciding whether to observe, intervene or wait.

Child and parent attending an orthodontic treatment appointment
The practical framework

What matters for this decision

Eruption

The sequence and position of erupting teeth can reveal crowding, impaction risk or space problems.

Growth

Jaw growth can influence the timing and type of treatment for some bite relationships.

Habits

Persistent oral habits can affect tooth position or bite development in some children.

Observation is a valid plan

A specialist may recommend periodic review rather than immediate treatment.

Decision context

For children, timing can matter as much as the appliance.

An early assessment looks at eruption, jaw growth, space, bite relationships and habits. Some children benefit from treatment while growing; others are best monitored until more permanent teeth erupt.

Clinical destination

myORTHODONTIST Coquitlam

When you are ready for an in-person assessment, care is available through myORTHODONTIST Coquitlam. The practice currently lists Dr. Aly Kanani and Dr. Alireza Haerian Ardekani among its orthodontists and offers braces and Invisalign for children, teens and adults.

1158 The High St #106, Coquitlam, BC V3B 0C6604-949-0654
Questions people ask

Useful answers before you decide

Why can an orthodontic assessment be useful around age seven?

At this stage, permanent and baby teeth are often present together, allowing an orthodontist to assess eruption, space, bite relationships and developing jaw patterns.

Does an early orthodontic assessment mean treatment will start immediately?

No. Many children are observed over time. Treatment is recommended only when there is a reason to intervene rather than wait.

What kinds of problems may be considered for early treatment?

Examples can include certain crossbites, space or eruption problems, significant jaw discrepancies or habits affecting the developing bite. Individual assessment is required.

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Related Coquitlam orthodontic guides

Reference context

These links provide professional, manufacturer or municipal context. They do not replace individualized clinical advice.

Clinical information

Last reviewed September 5, 2026. Educational content only. Treatment availability, provider schedules, fees and office policies can change; confirm current details directly with the clinical practice.