Age 7 is the sweet spot to check a child's bite. Some kids need a nudge early, most just need watching.

Invisalign First & teen aligners

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening by age 7, when the first adult molars and front teeth are in. At that age we can spot crossbites, narrow arches ...

Ages 6 to 18Consult 45 minutes, check-ins every 8 to 10 weeks4.9 from 1,126 parents

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Invisalign First & teen aligners at Little Molars Pediatric Dentistry

What this actually means

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening by age 7, when the first adult molars and front teeth are in. At that age we can spot crossbites, narrow arches and crowding while the jaw is still growing and easier to guide.

Invisalign First is designed for mixed baby and adult teeth. It can widen arches and make room without metal brackets. For teens, Invisalign Teen aligners come with compliance indicators and replacement aligners in case one goes missing at lunch. When braces are the better tool, we refer to trusted Treasure Valley orthodontists and share our records.

What is included

No line items sprung on you afterwards. Here is everything that happens in this appointment.

Inside a bright Little Molars treatment room

Growth and bite screening at checkups from age 6
iTero 3D scan, no goopy impressions
Treatment preview so kids can see the plan
Custom aligners and attachments
Progress checks every 8 to 10 weeks
Retainers at the end of treatment

How the visit goes

Four steps, start to finish, so your child knows what is coming next.

Step 1
Screen
We check bite, spacing and jaw growth, usually around age 7.
Step 2
Scan
A quick 3D scan builds a digital model of your child's teeth.
Step 3
Wear
Aligners are worn 20 to 22 hours a day and swapped every one to two weeks.
Step 4
Retain
Retainers keep the new smile in place while the jaw finishes growing.

Why parents choose this

The practical payoff, in plain language.

Guide growth
Early treatment can shorten or avoid braces in the teen years.
Eat normally
Aligners come out for meals, so no food rules.
Easier brushing
No brackets means cleaner teeth during treatment.

Costs and coverage

What it usually costs

We verify your benefits before treatment and hand you a written estimate. No surprises on the way out.

Insurance and financing See membership plans

Ortho screening: Included at checkups
Invisalign First: From $3,200 (sample)
Invisalign Teen: From $4,800 (sample)
Monthly payments: 0% plans from $135/mo (sample)

Sample prices for illustration. Many plans include a lifetime orthodontic benefit.

Why age 7 is the number to remember

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a bite check at 7, while the jaw is still growing and easy to guide. Most kids need nothing. For the few who do, early is easier.

Teen smiling confidently after early orthodontic guidance

Crossbites and narrow upper arches
Crowding with no room for adult teeth
Front teeth that stick out or do not meet
Jaw shifting to one side when biting

Book a visit

Age 6
First adult molars
Six-year molars erupt behind the baby teeth. Perfect time for sealants.
Age 7
Ortho screening
We check bite, spacing and jaw growth at a routine checkup, at no extra cost.
Age 8 to 10
Phase 1 if needed
Expanders or Invisalign First guide growth, usually for 6 to 12 months.
Age 10 to 12
Baby teeth finish
Canines and molars shed. We watch for crowding and impacted teeth.
Age 12 to 14
Phase 2 or full treatment
Aligners or braces for teens who still need alignment.
Age 16 to 19
Retainers and wisdom teeth
Retainers keep results. We X-ray wisdom teeth before they cause trouble.

Ages are typical ranges. Growth varies from child to child, and this is general education, not medical advice.

Often booked together

Families who come in for this usually ask about these too.