Early
orthodontic
treatment
At NA Orthodontics, we believe that early evaluation can make a big difference in your child’s smile and overall oral health. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic check-up by age 7. At this stage, our orthodontists can detect developing issues with jaw growth, bite alignment and the eruption of permanent teeth.
Early orthodontic treatment, sometimes called “Phase I treatment,” may include expanders, limited braces, Invisalign, or space maintainers to guide proper jaw development and create room for permanent teeth. By addressing these concerns early, we can often simplify or shorten future treatment with braces or Invisalign during the teen years.
Parents choose NA Orthodontics for our gentle, child-friendly approach, advanced 3D imaging and personalized care. Whether it’s monitoring growth or beginning interceptive treatment, our team ensures every child feels comfortable and confident at each visit.
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment at NA Ortho:
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Guides proper jaw growth
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Helps permanent teeth come in straight
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Reduces risk of crowding or impaction
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Improves facial balance and bite function
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May shorten or simplify future orthodontic care
Early Orthodontics FAQs – NA Orthodontics
Q1: At what age should my child see an orthodontist?
A: The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic check-up by age 7. At this age, we can evaluate jaw growth, bite alignment, and how permanent teeth are developing.
Q2: Do I need a referral from my dentist?
A: No referral is needed. You can schedule a consultation directly with NA Orthodontics at any time.
Q3: What is Phase I orthodontic treatment?
A: Phase I treatment, also called early orthodontic treatment, is designed for children who still have a mix of baby and permanent teeth. It may involve expanders, limited braces, Invisalign® First, or space maintainers to guide jaw growth and create room for permanent teeth.
Q4: Why would my child need early orthodontics?
A: Early treatment can correct problems with jaw development, help permanent teeth erupt properly, improve bite function, and sometimes prevent the need for more extensive treatment later on.
Q5: What are the benefits of early treatment?
A:
-
Guides proper jaw growth
-
Helps permanent teeth come in straight
-
Reduces the risk of crowding or impaction
-
Improves bite alignment and facial balance
-
May shorten or simplify future braces or Invisalign® treatment
Q6: Does my child really need braces at age 7?
A: Not always. Many children are simply monitored as they grow. If early treatment is needed, it’s usually short and focused, using appliances like expanders or partial braces.
Q7: Is early orthodontic treatment painful?
A: No. Appliances used in Phase I are gentle and child-friendly. Kids usually adapt quickly, and our doctors and staff focus on making every visit comfortable.
Q8: How long does Phase I treatment last?
A: Most early treatment plans last 6–12 months, depending on your child’s needs. Afterward, children often enter a monitoring phase until it’s time for full orthodontic treatment in the teen years.
Q9: How do I know if my child needs early orthodontics?
A: Signs include crowded or crooked teeth, difficulty biting, early or late loss of baby teeth, thumb-sucking, or a noticeable overbite or underbite. A consultation at NA Orthodontics will give you clear answers.
Q10: Can Invisalign® be used for young children?
A: Yes. Invisalign® First aligners are designed specifically for growing smiles and can be part of Phase I treatment.
Q11: Where are you located?
A: NA Orthodontics has offices in North Arlington and Jersey City, NJ. We serve the communities of Lyndhurst, Kearny, Rutherford, Harrison, Secaucus, Belleville, Bloomfield, Nutley, Newark, Clifton, Passaic, and Hoboken.
Q12: How do I book an appointment?
A: You can book online for a new patient consultation or call us directly at 201-991-4447.
