Catching orthodontic issues early can make treatment simpler, shorter, and more effective. Early treatment gives your child's smile the best possible foundation.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, Dr. Bodine can identify developing issues with jaw growth, tooth eruption, and bite alignment — and in many cases, address them before they become more complex problems.
Early treatment, sometimes called Phase 1 orthodontics, takes advantage of the fact that children's jaws are still growing. By guiding that growth at the right time, we can create the space and alignment needed for permanent teeth to come in properly — often reducing or simplifying future treatment.
Not every child needs early treatment. Many children simply need to be monitored as they grow, with comprehensive treatment beginning in their early teens. At your child's evaluation, Dr. Bodine will give you a clear, honest recommendation — including if no treatment is needed yet.
You don't have to wait until all permanent teeth have come in. There are certain signs that suggest an earlier evaluation may be beneficial:
When upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth, it can cause the jaw to shift to one side. A palate expander used early can correct this before it affects jaw development.
If there isn't enough room for permanent teeth to erupt, early expansion can create space — sometimes eliminating the need for tooth extractions later.
When the lower jaw protrudes in front of the upper jaw, early intervention can guide jaw growth and reduce the likelihood of surgical correction in adulthood.
Front teeth that stick out significantly are at higher risk of injury. Early treatment can reduce protrusion and protect your child's smile.
Phase 1 treatment typically uses appliances such as palate expanders, partial braces, or space maintainers to guide jaw development and create the right environment for incoming permanent teeth. This phase usually lasts 9–12 months, followed by a rest period where we monitor your child's growth.
After Phase 1, your child will be seen for periodic observation appointments as their remaining permanent teeth erupt. No active treatment is happening during this time — we're simply watching to make sure everything is progressing as expected.
Once most permanent teeth have erupted, typically between ages 11 and 13, Phase 2 treatment begins. This phase uses full braces or clear aligners to fine-tune tooth alignment and bite. Because of the groundwork laid in Phase 1, Phase 2 treatment is often shorter and more straightforward.
Early evaluations are quick, comfortable, and completely low-pressure. Call us to book your child's first visit — we love seeing young patients!
Call (903) 872-1200