Early orthodontic care helps parents understand how their child’s smile is developing and whether intervention may be needed to support healthy growth. At Chatham Orthodontics, early evaluations enable Dr. Barbara Fodero to identify concerns promptly, monitor growth and development, and determine the optimal timing for treatment, often preventing more complex issues later on.
At What Age Should a Child First Visit the Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive an orthodontic screening by age 7. At this age, Dr. Fodero can evaluate jaw growth, tooth eruption, and bite development to determine whether orthodontic treatment may be needed now or in the future. In some cases, children may be referred earlier if a dentist identifies potential concerns during routine dental visits.
Why Are Children Evaluated at Such an Early Age?
An early evaluation allows orthodontic issues to be identified before they become more severe. At this stage of development, Dr. Fodero can assess how permanent teeth are erupting and whether the jaws are developing in a balanced way. Early diagnosis helps guide teeth into healthier positions, preserve space for incoming permanent teeth, and reduce the risk of damage to protruding front teeth.
How Can Early Orthodontic Treatment Support Healthy Growth?
When early treatment is recommended, it focuses on guiding jaw development and supporting proper eruption of permanent teeth. Early orthodontic care may help regulate the width of the dental arches, create space for permanent teeth, reduce the likelihood of impacted teeth, and address habits such as thumb sucking or abnormal swallowing patterns. In many cases, early treatment simplifies later orthodontic care and supports healthier long-term dental development.
Does Early Orthodontic Treatment Benefit Every Child?
Not every child requires early orthodontic treatment. Some orthodontic concerns are best corrected during the teen years when all permanent teeth have erupted. Certain skeletal issues may also be addressed more effectively later in development. Each child’s needs are unique, and Dr. Fodero develops an individualized plan based on growth patterns, alignment, and overall oral health.
What Is the Orthodontic Supervisory Program?
Children who are not ready for treatment may be placed in our Orthodontic Supervisory Program. This complimentary monitoring program allows us to track jaw growth and tooth eruption over time. Patients are typically seen every 6–8 months so we can identify changes early and determine the ideal time to begin treatment. When appropriate, recommendations are shared with your family dentist to support coordinated care.
What Are the Long-Term Benefits of Early Orthodontic Care?
Beyond creating a straighter smile, orthodontic treatment can improve bite function, make teeth easier to clean, reduce abnormal tooth wear, and support the long-term health of natural teeth. Addressing alignment and bite concerns early helps promote comfort, confidence, and lasting oral health.
Will Early Treatment Eliminate the Need for Braces Later?
Early treatment can correct significant problems and reduce the severity of future orthodontic needs. However, because all permanent teeth are not present during early treatment, many patients still require a second phase of treatment (Phase II) during adolescence. This phase completes final alignment once growth and eruption are complete. In some cases, early treatment may be sufficient on its own, depending on the child’s specific needs.
Should Children Continue Seeing Their Family Dentist During Treatment?
Yes. Regular dental checkups and cleanings every six months are essential throughout orthodontic treatment. Braces and appliances require extra care, and ongoing visits with your family dentist help maintain healthy teeth and gums during treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Parents often have additional questions when considering early orthodontic care. These answers address common concerns that go beyond the initial evaluation and treatment planning.
How Long Does Early Orthodontic Treatment Usually Last?
The length of early orthodontic treatment varies based on the child’s specific needs and growth patterns. Some treatments may last several months, while others focus on short-term guidance before a monitoring phase begins.
Is Early Orthodontic Treatment Painful for Children?
Early orthodontic treatment is designed to be gentle and well-tolerated. Most children experience only mild pressure at times, and discomfort is typically brief and manageable.
How Often Will My Child Need Orthodontic Appointments?
Appointment frequency depends on whether your child is in active treatment or being monitored. Active treatment visits are usually scheduled every few weeks, while monitoring visits occur every 6–8 months.
Can Early Orthodontic Treatment Improve Speech or Oral Habits?
In some cases, early orthodontic care can help address habits or oral patterns that affect speech or swallowing. Each situation is evaluated individually to determine the best approach.
What Happens If We Delay an Early Orthodontic Evaluation?
Delaying an evaluation may allow developing issues to progress, potentially leading to more complex treatment later. An early screening provides valuable information, even if treatment is not needed right away.
