Early Orthodontic Treatment for Children

Early orthodontic treatment can give your child a strong foundation for a healthy, confident smile. At Shift Orthodontics, Dr. Kelly Pohlman focuses on guiding jaw growth and tooth development at the right time, often preventing more complex issues later on.

With a gentle, kid-friendly approach, we help make future treatment easier, more efficient, and more comfortable, while supporting long-term oral health and confidence.

Why Early Orthodontic Treatment Matters

Also known as Phase One treatment, early orthodontics allows us to identify and address concerns while your child is still growing. By taking action at the right time, we can:

• Guide erupting teeth into healthier positions
• Reduce the likelihood of permanent tooth extractions later
• Support proper jaw development and facial balance
• Improve chewing, speech, and even breathing patterns
• Make future orthodontic treatment shorter and less complex

Early intervention can simplify what might otherwise become more involved treatment during the teen years.

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, Dr. Pohlman can assess how your child’s teeth and jaws are developing and determine whether treatment is needed—or simply monitor growth over time.

In some cases, your family dentist may recommend an earlier visit if they notice signs of bite issues or irregular tooth development.

What Can Early Orthodontics Accomplish?

Early treatment can play a key role in guiding your child’s oral development and preventing future complications. It may help:

• Create space for incoming permanent teeth
• Reduce the need for extractions later on
• Correct habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting
• Lower the risk of injury to protruding front teeth
• Support proper speech and swallowing patterns
• Address jaw growth concerns, including underbites and crossbites

By addressing these concerns early, Phase Two treatment (typically during the teen years) is often simpler, shorter, and more predictable.

Signs Your Child May Benefit from Early Orthodontic Care

Every child develops differently, but certain signs may indicate the need for an evaluation. You may want to schedule a visit if your child has:

• Early or delayed loss of baby teeth
• Difficulty chewing or biting food
• Mouth breathing
• Thumb-sucking habits after age 5
• Speech challenges
• Protruding front teeth
• Teeth that don’t come together properly
• Jaw shifting to one side when opening or closing
• Crowding of the front teeth around ages 7–8

If you notice any of these, an early orthodontic evaluation can help determine the best next steps.

Does Every Child Need Early Treatment?

Not every child requires Phase One orthodontic treatment. In many cases, the best approach is to monitor growth and begin treatment later, once more permanent teeth have come in.

If treatment isn’t needed right away, your child may be placed in our Orthodontic Supervisory Program, which includes:

• Check-ups every 6–8 months to monitor growth and development
• Guidance on the timing of baby tooth loss if needed
• Coordination with your family dentist to support overall oral health

This program allows us to begin treatment at the ideal time for the best possible outcome, and there is no fee for participation.

Health Benefits Beyond a Straight Smile

Early orthodontic care offers more than cosmetic improvements. Proper alignment can:

• Improve bite function and overall comfort
• Make brushing and flossing easier
• Reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease
• Prevent uneven or excessive tooth wear
• Support long-term oral health and stability

A well-aligned smile sets the stage for healthier teeth and fewer dental issues in the future.

Ongoing Dental Care During Orthodontic Treatment

Even during orthodontic treatment, regular visits to your family dentist every six months are essential. Braces and appliances require extra care to keep teeth and gums healthy.

Dr. Pohlman works closely with your child’s dentist to ensure a coordinated approach to their oral health every step of the way.

Schedule Your Child’s Orthodontic Evaluation

If your child is around age 7 or older, or if you’ve noticed any signs of orthodontic concerns, now is a great time to schedule an evaluation.

At Shift Orthodontics in Brighton, MI, we’re here to guide your child’s smile development with care, expertise, and a personalized approach designed for lasting results.