Early Orthodontic Treatment for Kids
Early orthodontic treatment gives parents a clearer understanding of how their child’s smile, bite, and jaw are developing. By evaluating growth early, our doctors can identify concerns before they become more serious and determine whether orthodontic treatment should begin now or simply be monitored over time.
At Harwell & Cook Orthodontics, we want parents to feel informed and confident during this stage. That is why we encourage early evaluations and offer guidance tailored to each child’s unique development.
At What Age Should a Child First Visit the Orthodontist?
Did you know the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO) recommends all children see an orthodontist by age 7?
At this age, enough permanent teeth have usually erupted for Dr. Anthony Harwell or Dr. Tanner Cook to evaluate how the teeth and jaws are developing and determine whether early orthodontic treatment may be beneficial.
Even if your child still has baby teeth, this is an important time to assess their growth and catch potential orthodontic issues before they become more complex.
Why Are Children Evaluated So Early?
An early orthodontic evaluation helps us identify developing concerns while a child is still growing. In some cases, early intervention can reduce the severity of a problem and make future treatment simpler, shorter, and more effective.
On average, only 10-15% of patients will need early treatment. However, monitoring and correcting specific needs at this stage can:
- Identify missing or extra teeth
- Correct poor oral habits
- Guide tooth eruptions
- Correct jaw growth abnormalities
- Create room for crowded teeth
- Prevent damage to teeth and gums
- Improve confidence and self-esteem
- Evaluate airway issues
What Is the 7&Up Kids Club?
Enter Harwell & Cook Orthodontics’ 7&Up Kids Club — our FREE growth and development program developed especially for kids in this age group to evaluate, and potentially treat, serious malocclusions present at this stage.
Wait… FREE? Really?
Yes, you read that right.
Our 7&Up Kids Club will monitor your child and provide complimentary evaluations every 8-12 months as they continue to grow and develop through these important years. Through early and constant monitoring, it is our hope at Harwell & Cook Orthodontics to thoughtfully intervene in any case where early orthodontic care can make a difference.
It is only once treatment is started that we will happily work with you to come up with a custom payment plan that fits your budget.
If your child does not require early care, they will be placed in our 7&Up Kids Club and provided complimentary evaluations every 8-12 months. When entered into this program, you and your child will also be invited to exclusive Harwell & Cook Orthodontics events held throughout the year.
What to Expect at Your Child’s First Orthodontic Visit
Your child’s initial consultation will help navigate their current and future orthodontic needs and will consist of two safe, quick, and easy components:
X-rays
pictures
While your child may still have some of their baby teeth at this age, visiting our office around this time gives us the opportunity to evaluate your child’s mouth and catch potential orthodontic issues before they develop into something more serious.
What Can Early Orthodontic Treatment Help Correct?
For example, a Class II malocclusion (commonly referred to as an overbite) can often be corrected more easily in a developing mouth. If an overbite goes untreated for several years, treatment can become longer and more complex, resulting in the potential for surgery and added treatment time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common inquiries our patients have. Click each question to learn more.
What Signs Might Indicate My Child Needs an Early Orthodontic Evaluation?
How Long Does Early Orthodontic Treatment Usually Last?
When early treatment is recommended, it typically lasts several months to about a year. The exact length depends on your child’s growth patterns and the goals of treatment.
Will Early Orthodontic Appliances Be Uncomfortable for My Child?
Most children adjust quickly to early orthodontic appliances. Any mild pressure or soreness usually fades within a few days as the mouth adapts.
Will Early Treatment Eliminate the Need for Braces for Kids Later?
Early treatment can correct significant problems and make future treatment easier. However, a second phase is often needed later to complete alignment and bite correction.
Can Early Orthodontic Care Improve Long-Term Oral Health?
Yes. Addressing developing issues early can support healthier jaw growth, better bite function, and simpler orthodontic care later, helping protect your child’s smile long term.