Early Orthodontic Treatment for Children
What makes early orthodontic treatment different from standard treatment? Why might my child need it, and how will it benefit them long-term?
These are questions parents often have, and they’re worth answering. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist as early as age seven, when the orthodontist can assess whether early treatment is needed.
Early treatment (also called Phase One) typically begins around age eight or nine, with Phase Two starting around age 11 or later. The purpose is to guide jaw growth and correct certain bite issues, such as underbites, while also making room for permanent teeth — reducing the chance of extractions in the future.
Signs your child may need early orthodontic treatment:
- Early or late loss of baby teeth (most children start losing teeth around age five and have all permanent teeth by about age 13)
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Mouth-breathing
- Thumb sucking that continues after age five
- Speech difficulties
- Protruding teeth (upper and lower teeth extending away from each other)
- Teeth that don’t meet properly or don’t come together at all
- Jaw shifting when your child opens or closes their mouth (crossbite)
- Crowded front teeth around age seven or eight
What causes orthodontic problems, and how does early treatment help?
Problems like crowding, spacing, jaw growth issues, protruding teeth, and bad bites can be inherited or caused by early or late tooth loss, injuries, or thumb-sucking habits.
Most children lose all their baby teeth by 13, and jaw bones harden and stop growing by the end of the teen years. Orthodontic treatment for adults often takes longer and may require tooth extraction or surgery. Early treatment can help prevent those outcomes, giving your child a healthier path forward.
If your child is between ages seven and eight and shows signs of needing orthodontic care, or if your family dentist has recommended an evaluation, please contact our practice to schedule an appointment. We’ll complete an initial exam and discuss the best steps to take for your child’s smile.
