Early Orthodontic Treatment: It’s About More than Just the Smile

At Park Slope Orthodontics, we believe that wellness is a journey—one that includes oral health as an essential part of overall well-being. Every parent wants their child to grow up feeling healthy, confident, and strong, and early orthodontic care plays a bigger role in that journey than many realize. While orthodontic treatment certainly helps create a beautiful smile, it also supports breathing, speech, digestion, and long-term dental health, ensuring your child thrives in every way.

We recommend an early orthodontic evaluation around age seven to prevent future issues and guide development before concerns become more complex. By addressing these concerns proactively, we help children not only achieve a balanced smile but also enhance their overall wellness and comfort as they grow.

Early Treatment Can Help:

Encourage Healthy Development & Prevent Overcrowding

Traditionally, orthodontists may wait until age 12 or 13 to treat crowding, but waiting doesn’t always make the issue better. Through early treatment, we can guide jaw and dental arch development to create the space needed for permanent teeth. This approach can help prevent the need for extractions, reduce the likelihood of impacted teeth, and support better breathing and speech function.

Support Proper Jaw Alignment & Avoid Crossbites

A crossbite occurs when upper teeth sit inside lower teeth rather than on the outside. Left untreated, this can lead to jaw discomfort, uneven wear on teeth, and even postural concerns. Because a child’s jaw is still growing, early orthodontic treatment makes it easier to gently guide it into proper alignment—reducing stress on the jaw and promoting balanced development.

Simplify Future Treatment & Make Life Easier

When indicated, early treatment (Phase 1) can reduce the complexity and length of future orthodontic treatment (Phase 2). Children who receive early intervention often have a much shorter and simpler second phase of care, allowing them to focus on school, activities, and enjoying life while maintaining a healthy smile.

A Comfortable, Stress-Free Experience at Park Slope Orthodontics

We know that early orthodontic care isn’t just about treatment—it’s about creating a positive, reassuring experience that sets the foundation for a lifetime of wellness-focused habits. That’s why we’ve designed our practice with comfort and ease in mind:

✔ No Goopy Impressions! Our iTero® Element™ digital scanner allows us to take precise 3D scans without the discomfort of traditional molds, making the experience smoother and stress-free.

✔ A Family-Friendly Environment We believe that positive healthcare experiences in childhood lead to a lifelong commitment to wellness. Our warm, welcoming team creates an environment where kids feel safe, supported, and encouraged.

✔ Personalized Care for Growing Smiles Every child is unique, and we tailor treatment to support their overall health and confidence, ensuring that orthodontic care is as seamless and beneficial as possible.

If you’re curious about how early orthodontic treatment fits into your child’s overall wellness journey, we’re here to help. Click below to schedule a complimentary consultation, and let’s take the first step toward a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles.