Early Orthodontic Treatment for Kids
Early orthodontic care plays a powerful role in shaping a child’s long-term oral health, confidence, and smile development. At Smile & Co. Orthodontics, we help parents understand when to schedule that first orthodontic visit, what signs to watch for, and how early monitoring can guide healthier jaw growth, tooth eruption, and bite alignment.
At What Age Should a Child First Visit the Pediatric Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic screening by age 7. By this age, enough permanent teeth have emerged for Dr. Sam Kadan or Dr. Nicolette Almer to evaluate how the teeth, bite, and jaw are developing.
During this first visit, our doctors performs a gentle, child-friendly exam of the teeth, gums, and jaw. He also discusses any concerns you’ve noticed at home, such as speech issues, chewing challenges, bite concerns, or habits like thumb-sucking.
To get a complete picture, X-rays are often taken, and a comfortable digital scan with the iTero® Element™ system may be used to create a precise 3D model of your child’s teeth. These tools help guide early recommendations and ensure your child receives care at the ideal time.
Why Are Children Evaluated at Such an Early Age?
Evaluating children around age 7 allows Dr. Kadan and Dr. Almer to identify early signs of malocclusion, issues like spacing, crowding, bite problems, or crooked teeth. These can be caused by genetics, early loss of baby teeth, habits such as finger sucking, or injury.
Early evaluation can:
- Guide developing teeth into healthier positions
- Support jaw growth
- Preserve space for permanent teeth
- Reduce the risk of impacted teeth
- Improve oral habits
- Address chewing or speech concerns
- Prevent the need for extractions later
Early guidance often makes teen treatment simpler and more predictable.
Does Early Treatment Benefit All Children?
Not every child needs early treatment. Sometimes the best approach is to monitor growth until more permanent teeth are in place. Our doctors tailor recommendations based on your child’s unique development. If treatment isn’t needed yet, your child may join our no-fee Orthodontic Supervisory Program, where we monitor growth and tooth eruption during routine check-ins every 6–8 months.
What Is the Orthodontic Supervisory Program?
Our Supervisory Program tracks tooth eruption, jaw growth, and developing alignment concerns. It also allows us to identify habits affecting the bite and offer guidance, such as recommending selective removal of baby teeth if beneficial. We also stay in communication with your child’s dentist to ensure coordinated care.
In Addition to a Beautiful New Smile, What Are the Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontics improves more than appearance. Benefits may include:
- Better bite function
- Easier cleaning and improved hygiene
- Less wear on teeth
- Long-term comfort and stability
- Increased confidence
A healthy smile today supports lifelong oral wellness.
If a Child Has Early Treatment, Will This Prevent the Need for Braces for Kids Later?
Early treatment can correct major issues and prevent more serious problems from developing, but it doesn’t always eliminate the need for braces later. Because not all permanent teeth have erupted during early treatment, many children still benefit from Phase II treatment as teenagers to finalize bite and alignment. Every child’s needs are different, and we will guide you through the best long-term plan.
Do We Still Need to See Our Family Dentist During Orthodontic Treatment?
Yes, routine dental visits remain essential. Regular cleanings and exams help keep teeth and gums healthy, especially during growth or orthodontic monitoring. Together with your family dentist, we support your child’s lifelong oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions About Early Orthodontic Treatment for Kids
Understanding when and how to support your child’s developing smile can feel overwhelming. To make things easier, we’ve created this FAQ section with answers to the questions parents in our community are actively searching about early orthodontic care, growth concerns, and what to expect during this stage.
How do I know if my child really needs early orthodontic treatment or just monitoring?
It’s completely normal to feel unsure. Many children don’t need immediate treatment at age 7—it all depends on how their teeth and jaws are developing. After your child’s first visit, we’ll give you clear, honest guidance. If treatment isn’t necessary yet, your child may simply be placed in our no-fee Supervisory Program so we can track growth and step in only when it’s truly beneficial.
Can early orthodontic treatment help with habits like thumb-sucking or mouth breathing?
Yes, early orthodontics can play an important role in breaking habits that affect jaw growth. If your child struggles with thumb-sucking, mouth breathing, or tongue posture issues, we can offer gentle guidance—and if needed, early appliances—to support healthier oral development.
Will early orthodontic treatment affect my child's sports or activities?
Most kids adjust very quickly. Early appliances are designed to be comfortable and safe during everyday activities. If your child plays sports, we’ll show you how to protect their teeth and appliances. In fact, early treatment often improves comfort, breathing, and function, making day-to-day activities easier.
Is early orthodontic treatment painful for kids?
Most children handle early orthodontics very well. If an appliance is used, there may be a day or two of mild pressure as their mouth adjusts, but kids typically bounce back quickly. We walk both parents and children through every step so treatment feels positive and manageable.
Does early treatment help improve a child’s speech or chewing?
In many cases, yes. Bite issues, narrow arches, and improper tooth positioning can affect speech clarity and chewing efficiency. Early orthodontics can help create the space and alignment needed for proper function, giving kids more comfort and confidence as they grow.