Setting the Foundation for a Healthy Smile with Early Orthodontic Treatment

Early orthodontic treatment can prevent future dental issues and guide your child’s teeth into proper alignment. At Massey Orthodontics, we specialize in early intervention, helping young patients in Lubbock achieve healthy, beautiful smiles as they grow. Starting treatment early sets the foundation for long-term oral health and reduces the need for more extensive care down the road.

When Should Your Child See an Orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this stage, an orthodontist can identify any potential issues with jaw growth, bite alignment, or emerging teeth. Early detection allows for timely intervention, which can prevent more serious problems from developing and may reduce the need for more extensive treatment later. Even if your child’s teeth appear straight, an early consultation helps ensure their jaw and teeth are developing properly, setting them up for a healthy smile as they grow.

Early Orthodontic Treatment FAQs

What if my child still has baby teeth?

No problem! We can still periodically evaluate growth and development every 6-12 months.

What is the Massey Orthodontics KidsClub?

As part of the Massey Orthodontics Kids Club, your kiddo gets special treatment so they can feel at ease in a fun and friendly atmosphere to help build early rapport with the dental office! As a parent of a Kids Club member, you will have the peace of mind that our team of dental specialists are monitoring your child’s growth and dental development closely so that orthodontic treatment is started at the right time.

What is Phase One Treatment?

Phase One Treatment, commonly done between ages 7-10 but can be started as early as age 5, improves the skeletal structure of the face and jaw. Due to the nature of this treatment and the necessary monitoring of favorable facial growth, it’s important that your child is seen by a highly trained and skilled Orthodontic Specialist like Dr. Massey.

What are the benefits of Phase One Early Orthodontic Treatment?

Phase One early orthodontic treatment focuses on addressing dental and jaw development issues in children before all their permanent teeth have come in. The benefits of this early intervention include:

Guiding Jaw Growth: Phase One treatment can help correct issues like crossbites or underbites by guiding the growth of the jaw, ensuring it develops in proper alignment.
Creating Space for Emerging Teeth: Early treatment helps create space for permanent teeth to come in correctly, reducing the need for tooth extractions or more invasive procedures later.
Reducing the Severity of Future Treatment: By addressing problems early, Phase One treatment can shorten the length or complexity of future orthodontic treatment during the teen years.
Improving Facial Symmetry: Early orthodontic care can promote balanced facial development, improving the symmetry of the face.
Improving Airway Health: In some cases, Phase One treatment can improve breathing issues by expanding the dental arches, helping to prevent or reduce conditions like sleep apnea.

Overall, Phase One Early Orthodontic Treatment sets the stage for a healthier, more aligned smile and helps ensure your child’s dental development is on the right track.

Transform your smile with personalized care from Lubbock’s leading orthodontic team.

Ready to get started? All initial examinations are FREE and include x rays, photos, and a fully customized treatment plan with pricing so that you can make a choice that works best for you. Schedule today!