What Is the Rule of 7 in Dentistry?
By Dr. Eastwood – Summerbrook Dental & Implants, Fort Worth, TX
The Rule of 7 in dentistry is a helpful guideline that many dental professionals use when planning space for permanent teeth in children. It focuses on the idea that by age 7, a child should have their first dental visit with an orthodontist to check how their teeth and jaws are developing. This doesn’t mean they’ll need braces right away, but it’s the perfect time to spot problems early.
By age 7, most kids have enough permanent teeth for us to see how things are shaping up. The first adult molars usually come in around this age, and the front teeth (top and bottom) are often visible too. These teeth give us important clues about bite alignment, crowding, spacing, and even jaw growth.
At Summerbrook Dental & Implants, we follow this rule closely because early care can prevent bigger problems later on. If we notice signs of an issue — like a crossbite, open bite, or severe crowding — we might recommend early orthodontic treatment. Catching these things early can often make future treatment faster, easier, and more comfortable.
But even if everything looks great, visiting the dentist around age 7 helps your child feel comfortable in the dental chair and builds good habits for the future. It’s also a great time to talk about brushing, flossing, and healthy snacks.
So, the Rule of 7 is really about being proactive, not reactive. It gives us a chance to guide your child’s smile as it develops — instead of waiting until something goes wrong. We want to help every child grow up with a healthy, confident smile that lasts a lifetime.