Orthodontics for Children
There’s no one-size-fits-all age to begin orthodontic care, but the American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first visit by age 7. By then, kids typically have a mix of baby and adult teeth, making it easier to spot and guide early jaw or bite concerns before they become more complex.
Why early treatment matters:
Early intervention can help:
- Guide proper jaw growth
- Create space for incoming adult teeth
- Prevent the need for tooth extractions later
- Address harmful habits like thumb-sucking
- Improve speech and bite function
Signs your child may need to see a pediatric orthodontist:
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing or thumb-sucking
- Crowded, misaligned, or blocked teeth
- Clicking jaws or abnormal bite patterns
- Facial imbalance or front teeth crowding around age 7–8
What is Phase 1 Treatment?
Phase 1, or interceptive orthodontic treatment, is designed for children who still have some baby teeth. This early intervention helps create space for erupting permanent teeth, corrects harmful jaw development patterns, and reduces the risk of injury from protruding front teeth. At Cherokee Orthodontics, we customize treatment to your child’s needs, offering braces, Invisalign First™, or orthodontic appliances during this stage. By addressing orthodontic issues early, we help guide healthy jaw growth and set the foundation for a confident, beautiful smile.
What is Phase 2 Treatment?
Phase 2 begins once all adult teeth are in, usually during the early teen years. It focuses on aligning teeth and jaws using full braces or clear aligners to improve both function and appearance.
Every child grows at their own pace. At your complimentary consultation, we’ll evaluate your child’s needs and recommend the right timing and plan for treatment.
