Does Your Child Need Early Orthodontics?

As parents, we always want the best for our children, including their oral health. Many orthodontic issues can be more effectively addressed when caught and treated early in a child's development. This is why many parents opt to have their child evaluated for interceptive orthodontic treatment, pursue an early orthodontic screening, and consider child-friendly braces as part of what is known as “phase one orthodontics” or “early orthodontics.”

With this proactive approach to managing potential dental problems, including misaligned teeth, dental crowding, and abnormal jaw growth, many orthodontic issues are corrected before they become more complex — and by addressing these concerns at an earlier stage, phase one orthodontics can not only prevent the need for more invasive or extensive procedures in the future but also help parents save on costly treatments down the line. 

If you're wondering whether your child might benefit from this early intervention, continue reading to learn more about the signs that indicate a need for early orthodontics and where to find the best children's orthodontist in Manitowoc.

What is Phase One Orthodontics? 

Phase one orthodontics, also known as early orthodontics, is a proactive form of preventive orthodontic care designed to address orthodontic issues in children — typically between the ages of six and ten. This earlier approach is designed to move teeth into the correct position and guide the developing jaw while a child still has some of their baby teeth and before all their permanent teeth erupt. 

Common interventions may include full or partial braces, space maintainers, or palatal expanders. By addressing orthodontic issues early, this treatment can help improve a child's bite, align teeth, and promote proper jaw development — ultimately setting the stage for fewer dental conditions and a healthier smile.

What Conditions Can Early Orthodontics Treat?

The primary goal of early orthodontics is to guide the growth of the jaw and create space for incoming permanent teeth, potentially reducing the need for more extensive treatment later. Some of the primary conditions that early orthodontics can effectively treat several types of malocclusions, including:

• Crowded teeth: Insufficient space for permanent teeth to erupt properly
• Crossbites: When the upper and lower jaws are misaligned
• Protruding front teeth: A condition that makes front teeth more prone to dental injury
• Underbites: The lower jaw extends beyond the upper jaw
• Open bites: When the front teeth don't meet when biting
• Harmful oral habits: Including thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting

Additionally, early orthodontic intervention can help correct jaw growth discrepancies, improve facial symmetry, and create space for unerupted permanent teeth. By addressing these issues early, early orthodontics can simplify or even eliminate the need for more complex treatments in adolescence or adulthood. 

How to Tell if Your Child Needs Early Orthodontics

Deciding if your child needs early orthodontic treatment often involves observing certain signs and symptoms. Some of the most common signs that your child could benefit from early orthodontics include: 

• Difficulty chewing or biting
• Mouth breathing
• Early or late loss of baby teeth
• Crowded teeth or teeth that seem out of place 
• Popping sounds from the jaw when chewing or yawning 
• Persistent thumb-sucking beyond age five
• Visible misalignments like protruding teeth, crossbites, or underbites

Additionally, if your child's teeth don't meet properly when their mouth is closed or if they have difficulty speaking clearly, these could be signs that early orthodontic intervention might be beneficial. 

What Parents Can Do to Ensure Their Child Has a Healthy Smile

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. However, if you notice any of these signs earlier, it's important to talk to your child’s dentist about seeing an orthodontist sooner. Regular dental check-ups can also help identify potential orthodontic issues early on. 

Additionally, here are three recommendations for improved oral health in children: 

1. Parents should brush their children’s mouths for them until the children have enough dexterity to brush their upper and lower teeth well on their own—usually around age 8. 
2. Visit a dental professional regularly for dental X-rays, professional dental cleanings, and fluoride treatments to strengthen tooth enamel. 
3. Mention any concerns you have regarding your child’s oral health, including teeth that are not properly aligned or signs of dry mouth. 

Where to Find the Best Orthodontist in Sheboygan

At Just Orthodontics, we believe in the power of early intervention. Our team, led by Dr. Jeff and Dr. Ethan, specializes in early orthodontics, focusing on addressing dental issues in young children before they become more complicated. Their combined expertise allows us to create tailored treatment plans that guide proper jaw development and tooth alignment from an early age.

Our commitment to excellence in early orthodontics is reflected in our use of cutting-edge technology, our staying up-to-date with the latest pediatric orthodontic advancements, and our ongoing training, which ensures that we deliver the most current and efficient early orthodontic solutions for your child.

We've also designed our practice with young patients in mind, making early orthodontic care a fun and engaging experience — our kid-friendly environment helps children feel at ease, turning potential apprehension into excitement about coming to see us!