Early Orthodontic Treatment for Children

Why is it that today children tend to get braces a lot earlier. Well, advancements in science and technology allow orthodontists to detect orthodontic problems sooner. This provides a more accurate and efficient treatment on younger patients. Usually childhood orthodontics involves three stages of treatment. With early orthodontic care room is created for permanent teeth and later, more extensive treatments can be avoided. Early orthodontic treatment for children can help guide the growth of jaws, regulate the width of dental arches and help other teeth erupt correctly.

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When Should You Start Early Orthodontic Treatment for Children?

Your child’s permanent teeth will likely begin to erupt between the ages 6 or 7. This is why the American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening no later than age seven. During this stage most permanent incisors and molars should have come in and orthodontic problems will become apparent. Also, because the bones are still growing, it is an optimal time to decide which treatment may be most effective.

Signs Your Child May Need an Early Orthodontic Evaluation

  • Difficulty chewing or biting
  • Commonly bites cheek or tongue
  • Misplaced or crowding teeth
  • Mouth breathing
  • Jaws and teeth not proportional
  • Have speech impediments caused by malocclusion
  • Lost baby teeth late or early
  • Have protruding or gapping teeth
  • Continue thumb-sucking after 5 years old
  • Have abnormal bites
  • Early Orthodontics Phase One

Early treatment can usually being around age 8 or 9 and is often referred to as Phase One. During this stage the dentist will evaluate the teeth and how the jaws fit together. Extensive records will be made and a unique treatment plan will be developed. The dentist will create space if necessary, so that the rest of the permanent teeth can erupt uninhibited. This stage may also involve certain appliances to correct and realign the teeth and jaw.

Early Orthodontics Resting Period

Next there is an allotted resting period so the remaining permanent teeth can erupt correctly. During this stage our dentist monitors your child as the teeth continue to erupt and the jaw continues to grow. Then the orthodontist will determine the final stages of treatment and decide how to guide teeth into their final positions.

Early Orthodontics Phase Two

This final stage of early orthodontic treatment usually starts at age 11 or older. During treatment the dentist’s main goal is to make sure each tooth has an exact location and is in harmony with the rest of the mouth. Most often Phase Two requires a full set of braces. Once in place the bite will be perfected, the teeth will function properly and your child will have a healthy and beautiful smile.

Don’t Put Off Early Orthodontic Treatment for Children

Planning with a pediatric orthodontist now can help save your child’s smile in the future. The goal of early orthodontic treatment is making sure the mouth can accommodate all the permanent teeth. As a child’s jaw grows and develops, the dentist in Lake Mary can spot problems with jaw discrepancy and provide individualized treatment at an early age. This will improve their bites, reduce wear to permanent teeth and give them a beautiful smile they can always be proud of.



You probably have a lot of questions about early childhood orthodontics. When you choose Smile Design Studio our team will provide your child with an early evaluation and discuss the best steps towards caring for your child’s smile. There is no charge for this initial exam or for any supervisory reassessment exams. If you do have any lingering concerns, do not hesitate to contact our office and have your questions about early orthodontic treatment for children answered.

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