Early Orthodontic Treatment | Smile Worthy Orthodontics | Orland Park
Early Treatment
The AAO recommends an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Learn how early interceptive treatment at Smile Worthy Orthodontics can prevent future issues.
Book Your Free ConsultationThe Age 7 Evaluation
Early Evaluation, Lifelong Benefits
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child receive an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. By this age, the first adult molars have typically erupted, establishing the back bite. This allows Dr. Lisa to evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships and identify any developing issues with jaw growth or crowding before they become severe.
What is Interceptive Treatment?
Guiding Growth for Better Outcomes
An early evaluation does not necessarily mean your child will get braces right away. In most cases, Dr. Lisa will simply monitor your child's growth. However, if a significant issue is detected, she may recommend "interceptive" treatment. This is a short phase of orthodontics designed to guide jaw growth, create space for erupting permanent teeth, or correct harmful oral habits.
Benefits of Early Intervention
Preventing Future Complications
Early interceptive treatment can provide significant benefits, including:
Guiding Jaw Growth
Creating facial symmetry and adequate space for adult teeth.
Reducing Trauma Risk
Retracting protruding front teeth that are susceptible to injury.
Correcting Habits
Addressing prolonged thumb sucking or tongue thrusting.
Simplifying Future Treatment
Reducing the complexity and duration of full braces later in adolescence.
Signs Your Child Needs an Evaluation
What Parents Should Look For
While an evaluation at age 7 is recommended for all children, you should schedule a consultation sooner if you notice any of the following signs:
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing
- Prolonged thumb or finger sucking
- Crowded, misplaced, or blocked-out teeth
- Jaws that shift, make sounds, or are disproportionate to the rest of the face
Faster Treatment, Greater Comfort, Superior Results
Orthodontic Treatment Options For Kids
At Smile Worthy Orthodontics, we offer a wide range of treatments for your children. We know that treatment can be overwhelming for kids as well as parents, so we are here every step of the way
Damon Braces for Kids
Make braces fun for your child with Wild Smiles designer brackets! Learn about early orthodontic treatment for kids at Smile Worthy Orthodontics in Orland Park.
Learn About Damon Braces
Invisalign For Kids
Invisalign First is designed specifically for growing children. Learn how early clear aligner treatment can guide jaw growth at Smile Worthy Orthodontics.
Learn about Invisalign For Kids
SPARK™ Aligners for Kids
Discover SPARK Clear Aligners at Smile Worthy Orthodontics. Clearer, more comfortable, and highly effective aligner therapy in Orland Park, IL.
Learn About Spark Clear AlignersFAQs About Early Treatment
We can answer all your questions, just call and ask!
Why does my child need to see an orthodontist at age 7?
By age 7, the first adult molars have erupted, establishing the back bite. This allows Dr. Lisa to evaluate tooth and jaw relationships with precision and identify any developing issues — such as crowding, crossbites, or jaw growth problems — before they become more complex and costly to treat.
Does an early evaluation mean my child will need braces right away?
Not necessarily. In most cases, Dr. Lisa will simply monitor your child's growth and development, stepping in at the exact moment treatment will be most effective. Early treatment is only recommended when a specific issue can be meaningfully improved by intervening during the growth phase.
What signs should I look for that might indicate my child needs early treatment?
Common signs include early or late loss of baby teeth, difficulty chewing or biting, mouth breathing, prolonged thumb sucking past age 5, visibly crowded or misplaced teeth, and jaws that shift, pop, or make sounds.