Early Orthodontic Treatment
Interceptive orthodontics for children ages 7-10 to guide healthy development and create the foundation for a lifetime of beautiful smiles
Setting the Foundation Early
Early orthodontic treatment, also called Phase I treatment, takes advantage of your child’s natural growth to correct problems before they become more serious. By starting treatment at the optimal time, we can often achieve better results and reduce the need for more extensive treatment later.
- Guide proper jaw development during growth
- Create space for incoming permanent teeth
- Reduce need for tooth extractions later
- Improve breathing and facial symmetry
- Shorter treatment time in teen years
- Boost child's confidence and self-esteem
18-24 Months
Average treatment duration
All Ages
Perfect for kids, teens & adults
Preventive
Flexible payment plans available
Guiding Growth at the Right Time
Early orthodontic intervention during your child’s growth phase allows us to guide jaw development, create space for permanent teeth, and address bite issues while they’re easiest to correct. By taking advantage of natural growth patterns, we can often achieve results that wouldn’t be possible later in life. This proactive approach not only creates healthier smiles but also builds confidence during crucial developmental years when children are forming their self-image.
Gentle, Kid-Friendly Care
We understand that introducing orthodontic treatment to young children requires special care and patience. Our team at SmileCrew creates a warm, welcoming environment where children feel comfortable and excited about their visits. Using gentle, age-appropriate techniques and taking time to explain each step, we make early treatment a positive experience. Parents appreciate our clear communication and children love the supportive, encouraging atmosphere that makes them feel like part of the SmileCrew family.
Building Healthy Smiles from the Start
Early intervention creates beautiful, confident smiles that last a lifetime. Give your child the gift of optimal oral health and self-esteem.
Signs Your Child May Benefit
Schedule an evaluation if your child shows any of these signs:
Early or late loss of baby teeth
Difficulty chewing or biting
Mouth breathing or snoring
Thumb or finger sucking after age 5
Crowded, misplaced, or blocked teeth
Jaws that shift or make sounds
Protruding or receding jaw
Crossbite or overbite
Our Gentle Approach
Comprehensive Evaluation
We'll thoroughly examine your child's teeth, jaws, and facial development. Digital X-rays and photos help us create a complete picture of their orthodontic needs.
Custom Treatment Plan
Based on our findings, we'll design a personalized treatment plan that may include expanders, partial braces, or other gentle appliances to guide growth.
Kid-Friendly Care
We make every visit fun and comfortable. Our team is specially trained to work with children, ensuring a positive experience that builds confidence.
Long-Term Success
After Phase I treatment, we'll monitor your child's development to determine the best timing for any additional treatment needed during their teen years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age should my child first see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7, when the first permanent molars typically emerge.
Will early treatment eliminate the need for braces later?
While early treatment can significantly reduce the complexity and duration of future orthodontic work, some children may still benefit from a second phase of treatment during their teen years.
Is early treatment painful for children?
Early orthodontic treatments are designed to be gentle and comfortable for children. Any mild discomfort is typically brief and easily managed.
How long does Phase 1 treatment take?
Early treatment (Phase 1) typically lasts 12-18 months, depending on your child’s specific needs. This is followed by a rest period while permanent teeth continue to emerge.
