Early Orthodontics
Setting Your Little One Up For A Lifetime Of Healthy Smiles
While adolescence is the most popular time for patients to get braces, in some cases, orthodontic treatment should start sooner—especially during childhood. Early orthodontic evaluation and treatment can address orthodontic issues before the adolescent phase, helping to guide the development of your child’s jaws and teeth for better long-term outcomes. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, you should first take your child to an orthodontist for an evaluation at age 7. At age 7, your child’s permanent teeth have most likely started to come in with some baby teeth remaining. This is the best time for an orthodontist to determine whether your child is a good candidate for early orthodontics, also known as early interceptive treatment or Phase 1 treatment.
The goal of early orthodontics services is to expand your child’s jaw, make room for erupting permanent teeth, prevent the extraction of permanent teeth and make further orthodontic treatment, such as braces or Invisalign, go more smoothly. Early intervention can address problems with the child’s jaws, improving both function and facial appearance. Clemente Orthodontics is a York-based practice committed to providing high-quality service in early orthodontics. Clemente Orthodontics takes a unique and conservative approach to early orthodontics with the Growth Modifying Appliance (GMA). This removable appliance helps expand your child’s upper jaw for a broad arch and natural-looking smile without causing significant discomfort. Early orthodontics can also improve your child’s ability to bite, chew, and speak.
Why Early
Orthodontics?
Some orthodontic patients do not need to get braces, Invisalign® or another appliance until adolescence after all of their permanent teeth have erupted. Others may start to show signs of orthodontic problems early on—such as significant crowding, bite misalignment or jaw pain. In these cases, early orthodontics may be recommended. Acting at the right moment when early signs appear is crucial, as early intervention can help move teeth into their ideal positions, making it easier to straighten teeth later and reducing the need for more invasive treatments during the teen years. Early orthodontics can help:
What is the Growth Modifying Appliance (GMA)?
While each patient is different, the main goal of early orthodontics is to expand the palate to make room for erupting permanent teeth. Many orthodontists achieve this by using a cemented-in device such as a palatal expander. These expanders often require brackets and wires, which are affixed to the teeth and threaded through to correct dental alignment. While palatal expanders can correct jaw misalignment and prepare patients for Phase 2 treatment, we believe that slow growth modification is far more stable, superior and effective. Our signature Growth Modifying Appliance is a removable device that sits on the roof of the mouth. Using gentle pressure over time, the GMA gently expands the palate in all directions. As the palate expands, new bone tissue forms to support the widened arch and ensure stable results. Most patients will wear the GMA for 1 to 3 years, depending on their specific needs. The GMA comes in 30 assorted colors, and can be removed while brushing, flossing and eating. Find out more about our team here.
Signs of Orthodontic Issues in Children
Recognizing the early signs of orthodontic problems can make a significant difference in your child’s oral health journey. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children as young as age 7 can begin to show indicators that orthodontic treatment may be needed. Parents should be attentive to certain warning signs, such as losing baby teeth earlier or later than expected, difficulty chewing or biting, persistent mouth breathing, or noticeable facial imbalance. These issues can signal underlying orthodontic problems that, if addressed early, can lead to more effective and less invasive treatments.
Regular visits to a pediatric dentist are essential for monitoring your child’s dental development. Dentists and orthodontists can spot subtle changes in the alignment of the upper and lower teeth, as well as the way your child’s bite is developing. If any concerns arise, early intervention with orthodontic treatments like braces or clear aligners can help correct these issues before they become more complex. By staying alert to these signs and seeking timely advice from an orthodontist, you can help your child achieve a confident, healthy smile.
PALATAL EXPANDER VS. GMA
The Growth Modifying Appliance (GMA) has many benefits over fixed, palatal expanders for more gradual, comprehensive and comfortable expansion.
Palatal Expander:
Growth Modifying Appliance (GMA):
Gradual expansion with these appliances allows new bone tissue to form in the palate, supporting the expanded jaw and ensuring long-term stability.
Palatal Expander
Growth Modifying Appliances (GMA)
Two-Phase Orthodontics: What Parents Should Know
Two-phase orthodontics is a specialized approach designed to guide your child’s dental development for a lifetime of healthy smiles. This treatment is divided into two distinct stages. The first phase typically begins between ages 6 and 9, when your child still has some baby teeth and their permanent teeth are starting to emerge. During this time, orthodontic care focuses on correcting bite issues, guiding jaw growth, and addressing problems like crowding or crossbites. By intervening early, orthodontists can help create the ideal environment for permanent teeth to come in properly.
The second phase of treatment usually takes place during adolescence, once most or all of the permanent teeth have erupted. This stage is dedicated to fine-tuning the alignment of the teeth and perfecting the bite, often using braces or clear aligners. By following a two-phase approach, orthodontists can reduce the risk of more serious orthodontic problems later in life and help your child enjoy a beautiful, healthy smile that lasts well into adulthood. If you’re wondering whether your child could benefit from two-phase orthodontics, a consultation with an experienced orthodontist is the best way to get personalized guidance.
What to Expect During Early Orthodontic Treatment
Beginning early orthodontic treatment is a proactive step toward ensuring your child’s lifelong oral health. The process starts with an initial visit to the orthodontist, where your child’s teeth and jaws will be carefully evaluated for any developing issues. If early intervention is recommended, the orthodontist will design a customized treatment plan tailored to your child’s unique needs. This plan may include braces, clear aligners, or other orthodontic appliances, all aimed at addressing problems before they become more serious.
Throughout the course of treatment, you and your child will attend regular appointments so the orthodontist can monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments. These visits are essential for ensuring that the treatment is effective and comfortable. With the right orthodontic care, children can develop a beautiful smile and healthy bite that will benefit them for a lifetime. Early treatment not only addresses current concerns but also helps prevent more complex issues in the future, setting the stage for lasting oral health.
Preparation and Commitment: Supporting Your Child’s Smile Journey
Supporting your child through orthodontic treatment is a team effort that requires preparation, commitment, and the right guidance. Choosing an orthodontist who specializes in pediatric dentistry and understands the unique needs of younger patients is the first step. It’s also important to learn about the different orthodontic treatments available, such as braces and clear aligners, so you can make informed decisions about your child’s care.
Encouraging your child to maintain excellent oral hygiene—brushing and flossing regularly—is crucial during treatment. Attending all scheduled appointments and following the orthodontist’s instructions for caring for appliances will help ensure the best possible results. On the Upper West Side, families have access to orthodontists who are dedicated to providing the highest level of care for children and teenagers. By working closely with your child’s orthodontist and staying involved throughout the process, you can help your child achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that will enhance their confidence and quality of life for years to come.
