Early Treatment
Early Treatment
Patients Love Us. Parents Trust Us.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends kids see an orthodontist for an evaluation by age seven. Don’t worry, that doesn’t mean your little one will walk out of our office with a mouth full of braces. This first visit is just so Dr. Melanie can examine your child’s teeth and jaw and ensure their growth and development is on track. In most cases, this will simply kick off an observational period where Dr. Melanie will keep tabs on your kiddo over the years and let you know when the time is right to start treatment. However, if certain red flags are spotted, early orthodontics while a child is still growing can allow us to guide jaw growth and prevent more complex issues from developing.
Why Age Seven?
By age seven, most children have their first permanent molars, which gives us a good idea of how their bite is shaping up and we’re able to assess their development. Dr. Melanie believes in treating conservatively, so we’d only recommend early interceptive treatment if there’s a very clear benefit.
When early orthodontic treatment is necessary, it can:
- Guide jaw growth
- Encourage permanent teeth to erupt in a more optimal position
- Create facial symmetry
- Make space for crowded teeth
- Help stop harmful oral habits like tongue thrusting or thumb sucking
- Reduce the risk of dental injury by shifting protruding teeth out of harm’s way
- Help your child speak, chew and breathe easier
- Prevent the need for extractions or jaw surgery down the road
- Boost your child’s self-esteem by giving them a beautiful smile!
We Make it Fun!
Our bright, welcoming office is kid-friendly and the whole family will feel right at home. The team at Dr. Melanie Orthodontics is trained in treating patients of all ages, including kids with special needs and high anxiety. We take baby steps and ensure patients feel comfortable and safe. We pride ourselves on making the experience positive and super fun! These early growth and development visits are free. Schedule your child’s complimentary orthodontic evaluation with our San Diego and Rancho Santa Fe orthodontist today!
7
Schedule your child’s first orthodontic evaluation by age seven.
10-15%
It’s estimated 10 to 15% of kiddos could benefit from early orthodontic treatment.
6 to 7
Kids usually get their first permanent molars between six and seven.
Book A Free Consultation
Ready to get a sweet new smile with Rancho Santa Fe or San Diego Invisalign or braces treatment? Schedule your complimentary smile assessment today!
Rave Reviews
We build genuine relationships with all of our patients while giving them more confident, beautiful smiles. However, don’t just take our word for it!