The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends all kids visit the orthodontist by age 7, before all of their permanent teeth have come in. By age 7, Dr. Brian and Dr. Steve are able to identify growth patterns and potential problems in your child’s bite. Most children do not need treatment at this age, but for some this early treatment, also known as Phase 1 orthodontic treatment, can prevent later orthodontic complications. The only way to know is to have a thorough exam with an orthodontic specialist.
During your complimentary consultation, you’ll learn more about your child’s unique orthodontic situation, so you can begin planning the right course for their oral health.
Give your child a head start on a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles with early orthodontic treatment.
How Does Early Orthodontic Treatment Work?
Early orthodontic treatment, or Phase 1 treatment, refers to treatment that is performed on children who still have primary, or “baby” teeth. Early orthodontic treatment is used when Dr. Brian and Dr. Steve have identified a problem that is likely to grow worse over time. Some of these problems might include underbites, crossbites, severe spacing or crowding, missing teeth, or baby teeth that have been lost due to cavities. Social concerns related to appearance may also be a reason to begin treatment early. The goal with this early treatment is always the same: to create improved outcomes by preventing problems from growing over time. So, how does it work?
The first step of any orthodontic process is a thorough exam and consultation. Dr. Brian and Dr. Steve will take time to review their findings with you and your child, and make recommendations if treatment is needed.
Sometimes treatment isn’t needed right away, but we may still recommend monitoring your child’s development so that we’re ready in the event that treatment becomes necessary. When it is used appropriately, early treatment provides a greater chance for achieving more ideal treatment outcomes and can often make the later phase of orthodontic work shorter, less complicated, and less expensive.
Interceptive Orthodontic Treatments Available at Straight Smile Studio
If we determine that your child is a candidate for interceptive orthodontic treatment, Dr. Brian and Dr. Steve will design a personalized treatment plan to address your child’s unique orthodontic issues.
Our treatment options include:
Invisalign First
Invisalign First is a specialized orthodontic treatment designed for children as young as 6 who need help addressing problems like crowded teeth, spacing issues, and misalignment. These clear, removable aligners gradually and gently shift your child’s teeth into their proper positions over time. What makes Invisalign First popular among kids and parents is that the aligners are almost invisible, easy to maintain, and allow for normal eating and oral hygiene practices. Invisalign First can help improve a child’s dental health and create a foundation for further orthodontic care as they grow. Invisalign may not be possible for all patients of this age, depending on the orthodontic situation and the problems that we are trying to correct.
Braces for Kids
During the teenage years, typically between 12 and 16, orthodontic treatment is an important investment to address dental issues and prevent them from developing into larger problems. Thanks to our innovative braces treatments, getting braces as a teen is more comfortable and efficient than ever before.
What if My Child Does Not Need Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment?
During your child’s initial consultation, we will assess your child’s dental and jaw development to determine whether early treatment is necessary and, if so, what specific interventions are required. Not all children require early orthodontic treatment, and treatment plans are personalized based on each child’s specific needs. Even if no immediate early treatment is necessary, we may recommend check-ups over a period of months or years to monitor the development of your child’s teeth and jaw and determine if treatment is needed later.
Get Screening for Early Orthodontic Treatment in Mechanicsburg and Carlisle, PA With Straight Smile Studio!
At Straight Smile Studio, we are passionate about helping kids get an early start on a lifetime of great dental health! Early orthodontic treatment can identify and address issues before they become bigger problems later in life. We understand that deciding to pursue orthodontic treatment for your child is a big step, and we offer free consultations so you can get the facts, ask questions, and make an informed decision with no financial obligation.
We are happy to build a payment plan that offers affordable and interest-free monthly payments. You are also welcome to pay in full. We recognize that orthodontics is a significant financial investment, and we strive to make it a reality for as many people as possible.
Contact us today to schedule your child’s complimentary consultation!