Early Treatment
​The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic checkup at age 7. At this stage, permanent teeth begin emerging and growth patterns become noticeable. Early assessment allows us to identify concerns early — and often simply monitor development until treatment is needed.
Goal of Early Treatment
Early care focuses on guiding healthy growth, creating space for permanent teeth, and preventing future orthodontic issues. By intervening at the right time, we can improve function, boost confidence, and set the stage for a beautiful, well-aligned smile. Starting early makes later treatment easier and helps children enjoy a healthier, more confident smile as they grow.
Early Care for Beautiful Smiles
When Early Treatment
Can Help
Most orthodontic treatment starts between ages 8–14, but certain issues are easier and more effective to treat earlier. By using a child’s natural growth, we can guide the jaw and teeth to develop properly, often preventing more complicated procedures later. Early treatment can reduce the need for surgery and make future orthodontic care simpler and more efficient.
Common Orthodontic Problems
​Some bite and alignment issues are best treated in younger children. Crossbites may need a palatal expander, crowding can be addressed with early expansion, and protruding front teeth are easier to manage early. Underbites or jaw misalignments can sometimes be corrected before they worsen, reducing the need for surgery.
Supporting Healthy
Airway Development
Early orthodontic treatment can support a child’s airway health by addressing narrow dental arches or a constricted upper jaw, which can contribute to mouth breathing, snoring, or sleep issues. Gentle upper jaw expansion helps widen the airway, promote nasal breathing, and improve sleep, while also enhancing facial balance and setting the foundation for long-term dental and orthodontic stability.
Correcting Harmful
Oral Habits
Certain habits can impact jaw and tooth development if they continue beyond early childhood. Thumb or finger sucking, tongue thrusting, and mouth breathing can lead to open bites, speech problems, or abnormal jaw growth. Early orthodontic guidance can help break these habits, protecting the child’s bite and ensuring proper dental development before the issues become more serious.