BORIS MALESPIN, DDS
Early
Orthodontic Treatment
for children
What is the difference between early orthodontic treatment, and regular orthodontic treatment and why might my child need early treatment? How will early treatment benefit my child in the long-run?
These are just a few of the questions surrounding the topic of early orthodontic treatment for children. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist as early as age seven. At this point the orthodontist will evaluate whether your child will need orthodontic treatment.
Early treatment (also known as Phase-One) typically begins around age eight or nine (Phase-Two will begin around age 11 or older). The goal of early treatment is to correct the growth of the jaw and certain bite problems, such as underbite. Early treatment also helps to make room for permanent teeth to come in properly, lessening the chance of extractions in the future.
HOW TO TELL IF YOUR CHILD MAY NEED ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT:
- Early or late loss of baby teeth (your child should typically start losing teeth around age five, and will have all their permanent teeth in around age 13).
- Difficulty chewing and/or biting.
- Mouth breathing.
- Your child continues sucking their thumb after age five.
- Speech impediments.
- Protruding teeth (the top teeth and the bottom teeth extend away from each other).
- Teeth that don’t come together in a normal manner or even at all.
- Shifting of the jaw when your child opens or closes their mouth (crossbites).
- Crowded front teeth around age seven or eight.
WHAT CAUSES ORTHODONTIC PROBLEMS, AND HOW WILL EARLY PREVENTION BENEFIT MY CHILD?
Orthodontic problems such as crowding of the teeth, too much space between the teeth, jaw growth problems, protruding teeth, and bad bites can be inherited or caused by injury to the mouth, early or late loss of baby teeth, or thumb sucking habits.
Most children have lost all their baby teeth by age 13 and by the end of their teen years the jaw bones will harden and no longer continue to grow. Orthodontic procedures for adults often take more time and can involve tooth extraction and the possibility of oral surgery. As a child, receiving early orthodontic treatment can help prevent the need for orthodontics as an adult, leaving little to no chance of extraction or surgery in the future.
If your child is between the ages of seven and eight and shows signs of needing orthodontic care, or if you have been directed by your family dentist to visit the orthodontist, please contact our practice and schedule an appointment. Our team will provide your child with an initial exam, and discuss with you the best steps to take toward caring for your child’s smile.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What does early prevention mean at Complete Dental in Houston, TX?
Early prevention refers to a proactive approach to dental health that focuses on catching and preventing problems before they start or become serious. In Houston, Complete Dental emphasizes regular checkups, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and education on good oral habits to protect your smile and reduce the chance of cavities, gum disease, or more extensive treatment later.
Why is early dental prevention important for children in Houston?
Early preventive care for children helps establish healthy routines as soon as the first teeth emerge, guides proper oral development, and allows the dental team to identify early signs of decay or alignment issues. Detecting concerns early often means simpler, more comfortable treatments and helps children build a positive relationship with dental care.
What preventive services are typically included in early prevention at a Houston dental office?
Preventive services often include professional dental exams, teeth cleanings, fluoride applications, dental sealants to protect hard-to-reach grooves, and routine X-rays when needed. These treatments help keep teeth strong, catch decay early, and protect gums from disease.
How often should I schedule preventive dental visits in Houston, TX?
Most patients are encouraged to schedule preventive dental visits at least twice a year, or every six months. Regular appointments allow your dentist to monitor changes in your oral health, remove plaque and tartar that home care can’t reach, and address early signs of problems before they worsen.
How does early prevention save time and money for Houston patients?
By detecting issues like cavities, early gum disease, or bite concerns early, preventive care helps avoid complex, invasive, and costly treatments down the road. Small problems spotted in routine checkups can often be treated quickly and comfortably, meaning fewer emergencies and longer-lasting oral health.