Early Orthodontic Treatment

Early orthodontic care helps guide your child’s smile as it develops. At Griffin Orthodontics, Dr. Deborah Griffin evaluates children at the right time to identify potential concerns early and recommend the most effective approach for healthy, long-term results.

At What Age Should a Child First Visit the Orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this stage, Dr. Griffin can identify developing issues and determine the best timing for treatment.

In some cases, your general dentist may recommend an earlier evaluation if concerns are noticed.

Why Is Early Orthodontic Evaluation Important?

Early evaluation allows orthodontic concerns to be identified before they become more complex. Monitoring growth and development helps guide teeth into better positions and supports proper jaw alignment.

Early care can also help reduce the risk of injury to protruding teeth and create space for permanent teeth to erupt properly.

What Are the Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment?

When early treatment is recommended, it can help guide proper growth and prevent more serious issues later.

Benefits may include:

• Guiding jaw growth and development
• Creating space for permanent teeth
• Reducing the need for extractions
• Lowering the risk of impacted teeth
• Addressing habits like thumb sucking
• Improving speech and swallowing patterns

Early treatment can make future orthodontic care simpler and more efficient.

Does Every Child Need Early Treatment?

Not all children require early orthodontic treatment. Some concerns are better addressed during the teen years when all permanent teeth have erupted.

Dr. Griffin will evaluate your child’s individual needs and recommend the most appropriate timing. If treatment is not needed yet, your child may be placed in a monitoring program.

What Is the Orthodontic Observation Program?

The orthodontic observation program is designed for patients who are not yet ready for treatment. This program allows Dr. Griffin to monitor your child’s growth and tooth development over time.

Patients are typically seen every 6 to 9 months to track progress. In some cases, simple early interventions such as removing baby teeth can help improve the path of permanent teeth and reduce future treatment needs.

There is no fee for this program, and it helps ensure treatment begins at the optimal time.

Will Early Treatment Prevent the Need for Braces Later?

Early treatment can address significant issues and reduce the severity of future problems. However, because not all permanent teeth are present yet, additional treatment during the teen years is often needed to complete alignment.

In some cases, early treatment may reduce or eliminate the need for further orthodontic care.

What Are the Long-Term Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment?

Orthodontic treatment offers more than just a straighter smile. It can improve how the teeth and jaws function and support better long-term oral health.

Benefits include improved bite function, easier cleaning, reduced wear on teeth, and better overall dental health.

Should My Child Still See the Dentist During Treatment?

Yes. Regular dental visits remain essential during orthodontic treatment. Maintaining clean, healthy teeth and gums supports better results.

We recommend seeing your family dentist every six months for cleanings and checkups.