Orthodontic Services

Early Orthodontic Intervention in Bel Air, MD: The Right Treatment at the Right Time

Early orthodontic intervention, sometimes called Phase 1 orthodontics, addresses developing bite and jaw problems in children while the jaw is still growing. Treating certain conditions between ages seven and ten achieves results that are either impossible or far more complex to achieve once growth is complete. At Elevated Smiles Dentistry in Bel Air, MD, Dr. Joshua Englander evaluates children for early intervention opportunities and provides treatment that sets the foundation for a healthier bite.

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What Is the Right Age for an Orthodontic Evaluation?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have an orthodontic screening by age seven. At this age enough permanent teeth have erupted to evaluate the bite relationship between upper and lower jaws, and enough growth potential remains to intervene effectively if problems are found. Most children screened at seven do not need immediate treatment but benefit from monitoring. A smaller group has bite or jaw problems that respond best to early treatment before the facial bones have fully hardened.

What Problems Benefit from Early Orthodontic Treatment?

Crossbites, where upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth, are among the most important conditions to treat early because they can cause asymmetric jaw growth when left uncorrected during development. Underbites, where the lower jaw protrudes forward, can be difficult or impossible to fully correct without surgery if jaw growth is complete. Severe crowding that is causing erupting permanent teeth to be impacted or significantly displaced benefits from creating space before the remaining teeth have fully erupted. Palate expansion using a removable or fixed expander takes advantage of growth to widen a narrow upper jaw, creating space without extractions.

What Does Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment Involve?

Phase 1 treatment typically uses removable or fixed appliances rather than full braces. Palate expanders widen the upper arch. Space maintainers or active retainers guide erupting teeth into better positions. Partial braces on specific teeth address localized problems. Treatment usually lasts six to twelve months, after which the child enters a monitoring phase until the remaining permanent teeth erupt. A Phase 2 full treatment with braces or aligners may still be needed in adolescence, but it is typically shorter and less complex than it would have been without the early intervention.

Frequently Asked Questions About Early Orthodontic Intervention

Does every child need early orthodontic treatment?

No. Most children do not need Phase 1 treatment and benefit from waiting for all permanent teeth to erupt before beginning full orthodontic care. An early evaluation identifies the minority who genuinely benefit from early intervention.

How much does early orthodontic treatment cost?

Phase 1 treatment costs vary based on the appliances needed and treatment duration. If Phase 2 treatment is also required later, many orthodontists apply a credit from Phase 1 toward the total cost. Dental insurance orthodontic benefits often apply to Phase 1 treatment. Our team will review your coverage at your consultation.

Will my child still need braces after Phase 1 treatment?

Possibly. Phase 1 corrects specific developing problems but does not replace full orthodontic alignment. Many children who have Phase 1 treatment still benefit from Phase 2 braces or aligner treatment once all permanent teeth have erupted, though the Phase 2 treatment is typically shorter.

What happens if I wait and do not address my child's bite problem now?

For some conditions, waiting has no significant consequence and treatment is equally effective later. For others, particularly crossbites and underbites, waiting allows problems to worsen and narrows the treatment options available. Dr. Englander will be specific about which category your child’s situation falls into.

Can clear aligners be used for early orthodontic treatment?

Invisalign First is a version of the aligner system designed specifically for children in Phase 1 treatment. It can address a range of early bite and spacing issues. Dr. Englander will advise whether aligners or fixed appliances are more appropriate for your child’s specific needs.
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