Early Orthodontic Treatment
Your friendly New Baltimore and East China area kids' orthodontist. Sometimes the best way to a lifetime of healthy smiles is to start early.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends your child's first orthodontic consultation at age 7, while the molars and jaw are still developing, so we can evaluate problems now and spot ones that may develop later.
Starting Early
Why Early Treatment Matters
For most patients, the best time to start orthodontic treatment is between the ages of 9 and 14, when most baby teeth have fallen out and most or all of the adult teeth have grown in. But for some orthodontic conditions, the best way to achieve a beautiful smile is to start earlier, using your child's natural growth to prevent more extensive treatment down the road.
Dr. Brieden combines cutting-edge orthodontic technology with the expertise of an American Association of Orthodontists specialist to design treatment around your child, starting with a simple consultation.
When Earlier Is Better
Conditions That Benefit From an Early Start
Crossbite
With a crossbite, the lower teeth close outside of the upper teeth, which can cause problems with bite function and serious jaw problems later in life. Starting early lets us use a palatal expander to slowly and painlessly widen the upper jaw, correcting the crossbite and preventing more extensive treatment down the line.
Crowding
Mild crowding can often be treated through adolescent treatment alone, but in more severe cases, early treatment is often the best option. A palatal expander widens the jaw to create more room for teeth in the dental arch, promoting straight, healthy alignment and lessening the time needed in braces.
Front Teeth Protrusion
When upper or lower front teeth protrude from an overbite or severe underbite, they're at increased risk of being chipped or damaged in a fall, and these problems can impair healthy jaw development. We can use braces to treat these issues quickly, letting natural growth help prevent more extensive treatment later.
The Two-Phase Path
Phase I & Phase II Treatment
Early treatment happens in two phases, designed to deliver high-quality care in the most effective and efficient way possible. Since every child develops at a different pace, Dr. Brieden will recommend the right age to begin for your child specifically.
Make Room
The goal of Phase I is to ensure your child's jaw has enough room for the permanent teeth as they erupt. Because the jawbone hasn't fully developed, gentle adjustments like widening the upper jaw can be made around age 8.
Straighten & Align
In Phase II, we use traditional metal braces or clear aligners to straighten teeth into their correct positions, aligning your child's teeth and jaw for a healthy, beautiful smile.
Is Your Child Approaching Age 7?
We'd love to meet them for their first consultation. Request an appointment at our New Baltimore or East China office, we're excited to help your child achieve a gorgeous smile that lasts a lifetime.
Request an Appointment