Early Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic Treatment For Children In Two Steps

Early orthodontic treatment provides timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Orthodontic treatment directs growth and helps to avoid potential complications in the future. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist such as Dr. Meredith Parks can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal. For more information, read “A Parent’s Guide to Orthodontics.”

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that your child see an orthodontist by the age of seven to monitor the progress of newly erupting permanent teeth. Identifying orthodontic issues early, such as crowding, can be treated effectively during early orthodontic treatment.

parks orthodontics two phase treatment

Signs Early Orthodontic Treatment May Be Needed:

Here are some signs that could indicate your child needs early orthodontic treatment. It’s not always easy to identify, which is why we recommend bringing your child in to an orthodontic expert such as Dr. Parks:

  • Excess spaces between teeth
  • Overbite, underbite, cross bite
  • Extra or missing teeth
  • Severely protruding teeth
  • Severely crowded teeth
  • Narrow upper or lower jaw

Who Can Benefit From Early Orthodontic Treatment?

The first phase of early orthodontic treatment typically begins around the age of seven and lasts anywhere from one to two years. During this phase, we will focus on correcting any jaw growth or structural issues. The second phase of treatment begins after the permanent teeth have erupted and involves using braces to bring the teeth into proper alignment. When your child is in between phases, Dr. Parks will want to see them for periodic evaluations.

  • Narrow jaws
  • Severe crowding
  • Tooth eruption problems
  • Protruding front teeth
  • Severe malocclusions

Why Should Malocclusions Be Treated?

According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontists, untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems.

  • Crowded teeth are more difficult to properly brush and floss, which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease.
  • Teeth that stick out are at a higher risk of accidental chipping.
  • Crossbites may lead to undesirable growth patterns and uneven wear on the teeth.
  • Openbites can lead to habits of thrusting the tongue and difficulties in speech.

  • Ultimately, early orthodontic treatment does more than make a pretty smile—it creates a healthier kid all around.

Our Two-Phase Approach

At Parks Orthodontics, our goal is to help identify any potential orthodontic issues early in children. We achieve this in a two-phase treatment approach. The two-phases of orthodontic treatment are critical to achieving your child’s best possible results. The first phase, also known as the early treatment phase, works with your child’s growth. The second phase, also known as the comprehensive treatment or alignment phase, works to correct the teeth’s rotation and spacing as well as your child’s bite. When your child is in between phases, Dr. Parks will see them periodically for evaluations and monitoring appointments.

Phase 1: The Growth Phase

Phase 1 typically begins when your child still has a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth around the age of seven. During this stage, the emphasis lies on directing jaw development, making room for permanent teeth, and addressing bite irregularities or skeletal imbalances. Most often, treatment lasts about 12-24 months, with visits scheduled every 10-12 weeks. Early intervention is key to helping your child’s teeth and jaw as they age. Phase 1 involves:

Some children may have crowded or crooked teeth due to insufficient space in their mouths. Orthodontic devices like expanders or space maintainers are employed to generate or uphold space for permanent teeth, ensuring proper eruption.

Phase 1 treatment can address issues like crossbites, overbites, underbites and open bites, which, if left uncorrected, may lead to more severe problems later on.

At this stage, Dr. Parks can influence the growth of your child’s jaw to make sure that both the upper and lower jaws develop properly, which can prevent more complicated issues in the future.

Thumb sucking and other oral habits can interfere with your child’s dental development. Phase 1 treatment may involve interventions to help children break any habits.

Early intervention can additionally enhance your child’s overall facial aesthetics by addressing any skeletal variations.

Phase 2: Comprehensive Treatment

Phase 2 usually begins once your child has all, or most, of their permanent teeth, which is usually around 11 to 13 years of age. This phase focuses on adjusting your child’s teeth to help them have a better bite and smile. Phase 2 usually involves:

At Parks Orthodontics, we use braces or Invisalign® to gradually move your child’s teeth into their correct positions.

After your child’s teeth have been properly aligned, Dr. Parks will fit them with retainers. Retainers are essential and prevent your child’s teeth from shifting back.

Contact Us Today

To determine if your child is a candidate for early orthodontic treatment, contact us! Dr. Parks will be happy to discuss any questions or concerns you may have. Fill out our online form today to schedule your child’s complimentary consultation, or you can call or text us. We look forward to meeting you and your family!