Early Orthodontic Treatment for Kids in New Castle County
At Greeley & Nista Orthodontics, we believe the best smiles start with a strong foundation. That’s why we encourage parents to bring their children in for an orthodontic evaluation around age 7, as recommended by the American Association of Orthodontics. Early treatment isn’t always necessary, but when it is, it can make a big difference in guiding healthy jaw development, improving bite alignment, and creating space for adult teeth to grow properly.
Early care is about more than straight teeth; it’s about setting your child up for a lifetime of confident, healthy smiles. To see if your child could benefit from early orthodontic treatment, schedule their free consultation today.
What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment?
Early orthodontic treatment, also known as Phase 1 orthodontics, is care that begins while a child still has a mix of baby and permanent teeth, typically between the ages of 7 and 10. The goal is to address certain bite or alignment issues early, while the jaw is still growing and more responsive to gentle guidance.
Not every child will need early treatment, but when it’s recommended, it can set the stage for a smoother, more efficient orthodontic process in the teen years.
The Benefits of Starting Orthodontic Treatment Early
Starting orthodontic care at the right time can make a big difference in your child’s smile and oral development. For kids who need early intervention, the benefits can be significant. Early treatment can help correct developing problems before they become more complex, making future treatment shorter, easier, and more effective.
Here are some key advantages of early orthodontic treatment:
Better Long-Term Results
By addressing issues early, we can guide jaw development and tooth alignment in ways that lead to more stable, lasting results as your child grows.
Less Need for Future Extractions
Early treatment can help create space for incoming permanent teeth, which may reduce or eliminate the need for tooth extractions down the road.
Lower Risk of Dental Injuries
Protruding front teeth are more vulnerable to chips and breaks during play or sports. Early care can bring teeth into safer positions and protect your child’s smile.
Easier Speech and Swallowing
Orthodontic problems can sometimes interfere with how a child speaks or swallows. Correcting bite issues early may support clearer speech and more natural oral function.
Simpler Treatment Later
Phase 1 treatment can shorten or even prevent the need for more complex orthodontic work during the teen years, making the process smoother and more efficient.
Confidence That Lasts
A healthy smile builds self-esteem in your child’s formative years. Early improvements can help your child feel more confident in school, in photos, and with peers.
Early Treatment at Greeley & Nista Orthodontics
At Greeley & Nista Orthodontics, we offer both traditional braces and Invisalign First to treat early orthodontic issues. Every child’s needs are different, and our doctors will recommend the most effective approach based on your child’s age, development, and unique smile goals.
Traditional Braces
Braces remain one of the most reliable ways to correct bite issues and guide tooth alignment during early treatment. For younger patients, we use kid-friendly brackets that are gentle yet effective. Braces give our orthodontists precise control over tooth movement, making them ideal for addressing more complex developmental concerns at an early stage. Plus, your child will love being able to choose the color of their braces at every visit!
Invisalign
Invisalign First is designed specifically for growing children who need early orthodontic intervention. These clear aligners are comfortable, removable, and nearly invisible. Invisalign First gently guides teeth into better positions while accommodating growing jaws and mixed baby/permanent teeth. Since they’re removable, aligners make brushing and eating easier, helping kids maintain good oral hygiene throughout treatment.
What Happens At My Child’s First Consultation?
Your child’s first visit with us is relaxed, educational, and all about making everyone feel comfortable. Our team takes the time to get to know your child, understand their needs, and walk you through every step of the process.
Here’s what the appointment includes:
- A review of your child’s dental and medical history
- A gentle exam to check their teeth, bite, and jaw development
- Digital X-rays and a quick, mess-free iTero® scan of their smile
- A clear diagnosis of any orthodontic concerns
- A personalized treatment plan tailored to their stage of growth
- A simple breakdown of costs, insurance coverage, and payment options
We’re here to give you straightforward, expert advice, so you can feel confident you’re making the right choice for your child’s smile.
What if My Child Doesn’t Need Early Treatment?
If your child doesn’t need early orthodontic treatment, that’s great news! It simply means their growth and development are on track for now. In these cases, we may recommend waiting a bit and reevaluating when more permanent teeth come in.
Our team will let you know when to schedule a follow-up visit. We won’t recommend unnecessary appointments, just expert guidance at the right time. You’ll leave with peace of mind knowing your child’s smile is in good hands, whether treatment starts now or later.
Get Started on Early Orthodontic Treatment Today!
Early orthodontic evaluations give your child the best chance at a healthy, confident smile, and at Greeley & Nista Orthodontics, we’re here to make that first step simple, stress-free, and personalized to your family’s needs. Whether your child needs early treatment or just a watchful eye as they grow, our expert team will guide you every step of the way.
Schedule your free consultation today and discover how early care can set the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles!
Frequently Asked Questions
About Early Orthodontic Treatment
When Should My Child First See an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this stage, we can spot subtle issues with jaw growth or emerging teeth, even if no treatment is needed yet.
How Do I Know if My Child Needs Early Treatment?
Common signs that your child could benefit from early treatment include crowded or spaced teeth, difficulty chewing, early or late loss of baby teeth, mouth breathing, or thumb-sucking habits. However, some issues can only be spotted with an orthodontic exam, which is why early evaluations are so important, even if everything looks fine.
Will Early Orthodontic Treatment Mean My Child Won’t Need Braces Later?
Not always. Early treatment (Phase 1 orthodontics) is designed to address specific issues while a child’s jaw is still developing. It can make future treatment (Phase 2 orthodontics) faster, easier, and more effective, but it doesn’t always eliminate the need for braces or aligners during the teen years.