Early orthodontic treatment can set your child up for a lifetime of healthy smiles by addressing potential problems before they become more serious. At House of Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we believe in the power of early intervention to guide proper jaw development and tooth alignment. Our gentle, child-focused approach to early treatment helps create the foundation for optimal oral health and beautiful smiles.
House of Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics provides comprehensive early orthodontic treatment designed specifically for growing children. Our experienced orthodontic specialists use the latest techniques and gentle approaches to guide your child’s dental development. We’re committed to creating positive treatment experiences that build confidence and promote lifelong oral health habits.
Early orthodontic treatment, also known as interceptive orthodontics, involves addressing orthodontic problems while your child is still growing. This proactive approach can prevent more complex issues from developing and may reduce the need for extensive treatment later.
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends children see an orthodontist by age 7. At this age, most children have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth, making it easier to identify potential problems. Early evaluation allows us to monitor your child’s dental development and determine the optimal time to begin treatment if needed. Not all children require early treatment, but for those who do, the benefits can be significant. Early intervention can guide jaw growth, create space for permanent teeth, and establish proper bite relationships. This foundation often makes later treatment more efficient and effective.
Early treatment typically occurs in two phases. The first phase addresses immediate concerns like severe crowding or jaw growth issues. After a rest period, the second phase involves comprehensive treatment, often with braces, to finalize tooth alignment and bite correction.
Early treatment can influence jaw development to create proper proportions and function.
Interceptive treatment can create space for permanent teeth to erupt properly.
Early intervention often shortens overall treatment time and complexity.
We offer various early treatment options tailored to your child’s specific needs and developmental stage. These treatments are designed to be comfortable and effective while working with your child’s natural growth patterns.
Space maintainers help preserve space when baby teeth are lost prematurely. These simple appliances prevent neighboring teeth from shifting into the empty space, ensuring permanent teeth have room to erupt properly. Space maintainers are comfortable and typically require minimal adjustment time. Palatal expanders gradually widen the upper jaw to create space for teeth and improve bite function. These appliances work best during periods of active growth and can prevent the need for tooth extractions later. The expansion process is gradual and comfortable, with most children adapting quickly.
Habit appliances help children stop harmful habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting. These gentle appliances remind children to avoid the habit while allowing normal function for eating and speaking. Breaking these habits early prevents dental and jaw development problems.
When there’s insufficient space for permanent teeth to erupt properly.
When upper teeth bite inside lower teeth, affecting jaw development.
When jaw growth patterns may benefit from early guidance.
Starting early orthodontic treatment involves careful evaluation and planning to ensure your child receives the most appropriate care. We take time to explain each step and answer any questions you or your child may have.
The process begins with a comprehensive consultation where we examine your child’s teeth, jaw, and bite relationships. We’ll take X-rays and photographs to assess dental development and identify any potential problems. This evaluation helps us determine if early treatment would benefit your child. If early treatment is recommended, we’ll create a customized treatment plan addressing your child’s specific needs. We explain the recommended approach, expected timeline, and how the treatment will benefit your child’s long-term oral health. Most early treatment appliances are comfortable and require minimal adjustment time.
Throughout treatment, we monitor your child’s progress carefully and make any necessary adjustments. Regular appointments ensure treatment stays on track and allows us to address any concerns promptly. We also provide guidance on maintaining the appliances and keeping teeth healthy during treatment.
Dr. Harmon
Orthodontic specialist with advanced training in early interceptive treatment.
Our skilled team brings years of experience in early orthodontic treatment and child development. We understand the unique needs of growing children and provide compassionate care in a comfortable environment.
Ready to give your child the best start for a healthy, beautiful smile? House of Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics is here to evaluate your child’s orthodontic needs and provide expert guidance on early treatment options.
We understand every child develops at their own pace, and we take pride in providing individualized care tailored to your child’s specific needs. Our gentle approach and child-friendly environment make early treatment a positive experience that builds confidence and promotes good oral health habits. Contact us today to schedule your child’s early treatment consultation and learn how we can help guide their smile development.
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends evaluation by age 7 for optimal timing.
Early treatment may reduce the need for extensive treatment later but doesn’t always eliminate it.
Early treatment usually takes 12-18 months, depending on the specific issues being addressed.
Yes, modern appliances are designed for comfort and most children adapt quickly.
Most activities can continue normally, though we may recommend protective gear for sports.
27220 Highway 290 Suite B
Cypress, TX 77433
Phone: 281-727-0511
Fax: 281-727-0512
Early orthodontic treatment can set your child up for a lifetime of healthy smiles by addressing potential problems before they become more serious. At House of Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we believe in the power of early intervention to guide proper jaw development and tooth alignment. Our gentle, child-focused approach to early treatment helps create the foundation for optimal oral health and beautiful smiles.
