Early Orthodontic Treatment

Early orthodontic care can make a big difference in how your child’s smile and bite develop. At Embrace Orthodontics, Dr. Dima Kalakech monitors jaw growth, guides erupting teeth, and helps prevent small issues from becoming more complex problems later on.

At What Age Should a Child First Visit the Orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic screening by age 7.

By this age, most children have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, which allows Dr. Dima Kalakech to:

• Identify developing bite or alignment issues
• Determine whether treatment is needed now or later
• Plan the ideal timing for future orthodontic care

Your child’s dentist may also recommend an earlier visit if they notice any concerns.

Why Are Children Evaluated for Orthodontics So Early?

An early orthodontic evaluation focuses on prevention and planning. Early care can:

• Guide erupting teeth into better positions
• Preserve space for permanent teeth
• Reduce the risk of damage to protruding front teeth

When early treatment is recommended, it can also help:

• Guide jaw growth and development
• Improve the alignment of the upper and lower arches
• Create space for permanent teeth and reduce the need for extractions
• Lower the risk of impacted teeth
• Address thumb-sucking or oral habits
• Support proper speech and swallowing patterns

In many cases, early care makes future orthodontic treatment easier and more efficient.

Does Every Child Need Early Orthodontic Treatment?

Not every child needs early (Phase I) treatment. Some orthodontic concerns are better treated later, once all permanent teeth have erupted.

Dr. Dima Kalakech creates a personalized plan for each child. If treatment is not needed right away, your child may be placed in a monitoring program to track growth and development over time.

What Is the Orthodontic Supervisory Program?

This program is designed for children who are not ready for braces but still benefit from regular monitoring. It allows us to:

• Track how permanent teeth are erupting
• Identify spacing or alignment concerns early
• Recommend timely removal of baby teeth if needed
• Help reduce the complexity of future treatment

Children in this program are typically seen every 6 to 8 months so we can monitor progress and make recommendations as needed.

Will My Child Still Need Braces After Early Treatment?

Early treatment can correct significant concerns and guide development, but it does not always eliminate the need for braces later.

• Phase I treatment addresses growth and spacing issues early
• Phase II treatment (braces or aligners) refines alignment once permanent teeth are in place

In many cases, early treatment helps make future orthodontic care shorter and more efficient.

Should My Child Still See Their Dentist During Treatment?

Yes. Regular dental visits are important during orthodontic care. Appliances can make it easier for plaque to build up, so professional cleanings and exams help keep teeth and gums healthy.

We recommend continuing routine dental visits every six months during orthodontic treatment.