Did you know that the American Association of Orthodontics recommends that all children visit an orthodontist by age 7? You can trust that our team of early intervention experts will guide your child’s smile toward healthy development, lasting confidence, and a lifetime of strong oral function.
Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment
Building Strong Smiles From the Start
At Shafer Orthodontics, we believe that early intervention care leads to lasting results. That’s why we offer Phase 1 orthodontic treatment for children as young as 6 years old—an ideal time to guide healthy growth and prevent more serious issues or extensive treatment down the road. This early stage of treatment is perfect for kids with mixed dentition, a combination of baby and adult teeth, allowing us to easily and efficiently address concerns before they become more complex.
Invisalign First
A comfortable treatment option designed for children as young as six to help guide jaw and arch development while making room for incoming permanent teeth. With removable trays and no brackets or wires, it offers a stress-free, hygiene-friendly option that kids and parents both love.
Palate Expanders
Used in growing children to gently widen the upper jaw, creating more space for permanent teeth and improving bite alignment. This early intervention can prevent more complex issues later on and helps guide proper facial and dental development.
Braces
An early intervention tactic addressing specific orthodontic issues such as crowding, crossbites, or spacing, during childhood development. This targeted treatment sets the foundation for long-term smile success and often reduces the need for more extensive treatment later.
Early Treatment
Why Your Child Should be Seen
Early intervention is important because it allows us to address orthodontic issues while a child’s mouth and jaw are still developing. At this stage, we can guide proper growth, make room for permanent teeth, and correct problems like crowding, crossbites, or narrow arches before they become more serious. By treating these concerns early, we often reduce the need for more extensive treatment later on. Our goal is to set your child up for long-term success with a healthy, confident smile that grows with them.
Guides Jaw Growth for a Healthier Bite
Early treatment helps direct jaw development, making sure the upper and lower jaws grow in harmony. This can prevent bite problems like overbites, underbites, or crossbites from getting worse over time.
Creates Space for Incoming Permanent Teeth
By addressing crowding early, Phase 1 treatment can make room for permanent teeth to come in properly. This reduces the chances of impaction or the need for extractions later on.
Simplifies Future Orthodontic Treatment
Early intervention often shortens or even eliminates the need for full braces in the teen years. It sets the foundation for a more efficient, less invasive second phase—if one is needed at all.
Reasons to Bring In Your Child
3 Key Reasons for Early Orthodontic Visits
Healthy Smiles Start Early
First Checkup by Age Seven
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child see an orthodontist by age seven, even if their smile looks perfectly fine. At this age, baby teeth and permanent teeth are both present, giving orthodontists a clear picture of how the bite is forming. Early evaluations don’t always lead to immediate treatment, but they do give parents valuable insight and peace of mind. Knowing what to expect now can prevent surprises later and help your child’s smile develop in the healthiest way possible.
Keeping Smiles on Track
Guiding Teeth and Jaw Development
As children grow, their teeth and jaws don’t always align naturally. Early orthodontic visits allow specialists to monitor growth and catch potential problems – such as crowding, bite issues, or spacing – before they become more complex. This doesn’t mean braces are needed right away, but it ensures the right care happens at the right time. Parents benefit from knowing their child’s smile is on track, and children benefit from gentle guidance during critical growth stages. It’s a simple step that sets the stage for healthier, easier smiles later.
Protect Growing Smiles
Avoid Bigger Problems Later
Early evaluations often prevent the need for complicated, expensive orthodontic treatment in the future. By identifying issues before they worsen, orthodontists can recommend small interventions that save families both time and money. Parents gain peace of mind knowing they’ve taken proactive steps to protect their child’s oral health. Children, in turn, enjoy smoother, more comfortable treatment if care is ever needed. Addressing potential concerns early reduces stress, avoids surprises, and ensures your child’s smile has the best chance to grow healthy and strong.
Patient Testimonials
