Early Treatment
Early Orthodontic Treatment With A Pediatric Orthodontist
Why Choose a Pediatric Orthodontist?
At Aubrey Barrett Orthodontics, we specialize in early orthodontic care designed to address dental issues before they become more complex. As a trusted pediatric orthodontist Dr. Barrett provides gentle, proactive treatment to help guide your child’s smile as they grow.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child receive their first orthodontic screening by age 7. Early evaluations allow us to detect potential problems with jaw growth and tooth development, ensuring your child’s smile stays healthy and beautiful.
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment
Starting orthodontic treatment at a young age can:
Guide Jaw Growth:
Helps correct issues with jaw development to create a balanced facial structure.
Create Space for Erupting Teeth:
Prevents crowding and allows teeth to come in properly.
Improve Bite Alignment:
Addresses overbites, underbites, and crossbites before they cause more serious issues.
Reduce the Need for Tooth Extractions:
By addressing alignment issues early, we can often avoid more invasive procedures later.
Shorten Future Treatment Time:
Early intervention can make future braces or aligner treatment faster and more efficient.
What to Expect During Your Child’s First Visit
When you bring your child to see Dr. Barrett for an early orthodontic consultation, we’ll:
- Evaluate Jaw and Tooth Development: We’ll assess how your child’s teeth are coming in and whether there are any early signs of crowding, spacing, or bite problems.
- Identify Potential Issues: We’ll check for common orthodontic concerns like overbites, underbites, open bites, and crossbites.
- Recommend Next Steps: If treatment isn’t needed right away, we’ll monitor your child’s growth and development with periodic checkups. If early intervention is necessary, we’ll create a customized treatment plan tailored to your child’s needs.
If your child is feeling nervous about the possibility of getting braces, check out our suggestions on how to prepare your child for braces.
Types of Early Orthodontic Treatments
Every child is unique, and Dr. Barrett will create a personalized treatment plan that ensures the best possible results. Early orthodontic treatment may include:
Space Maintainers
Preserves space for permanent teeth if baby teeth are lost early.
Removable Appliances
Guides jaw growth and corrects minor issues.
Is Early Treatment Right for Your Child?
All children are different and may not need early orthodontic treatment, but an evaluation by a pediatric orthodontist can give you peace of mind. Early assessments help us catch potential issues before they become more complex—saving time, money, and discomfort in the future.
Schedule Your Child’s Free Orthodontic Consultation Today!
Give your child the best start to a healthy, confident smile. Schedule a FREE consultation at our El Cerrito or Pittsburg, CA offices today!
Frequently Asked Questions
About Orthodontics For Your Child
When should my child first see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have their first orthodontic screening by age 7. For a full look at timing and what to expect at a first visit: What’s the right age for an orthodontic consultation?
What is early orthodontic treatment — and does my child need it?
Early orthodontic treatment (also called Phase 1) addresses jaw and bite problems while the jaw is still growing. It doesn’t mean braces at age 7 — it means catching structural issues before they become harder to fix. Most kids don’t need it, but for those who do, the timing matters. Read more: Early orthodontic treatment: does my child really need braces at age 7?
What is a palatal expander and does it hurt?
A palatal expander gradually widens the upper jaw to make room for crowded teeth or correct a narrow arch. It works best during childhood when the bone is still soft and responsive. Most kids adjust within a week and find it much more comfortable than they expected. Full details: Palatal Expanders at Aubrey Barrett Orthodontics
What’s the difference between Phase 1 and Phase 2 orthodontic treatment?
Phase 1 happens in the early school years and focuses on jaw structure — making room, correcting crossbites, and guiding jaw growth. Phase 2 is traditional braces or Invisalign that aligns the teeth once they’re all in. Not every child needs both phases. Our full explainer: What is Phase 1 orthodontic treatment?
What are the signs my child might need orthodontic treatment?
Crowded teeth, a shifting jaw when biting, early or late loss of baby teeth, mouth breathing, and difficulty chewing are all worth a closer look. Some signs show up well before the teen braces years. See the full list: Signs my child needs orthodontic treatment
How do I prepare my child for their first orthodontic appointment?
Keep it low-key and positive. Tell your child they’re going to a fun appointment where someone will count and look at their teeth — no shots, no drills. Our team in El Cerrito and Pittsburg take the time to explain everything in age-appropriate terms. Tips for parents: How to prepare your child for braces (without stress or tears)