At Carmen Orthodontics, we believe a healthy smile starts early. That’s why we recommend scheduling your child’s first orthodontic check-up around age seven, following the American Association of Orthodontists’ guidelines for early evaluation.
Our early treatment approach is designed to guide jaw development, create room for incoming permanent teeth, and correct bite problems while your child’s mouth is still growing. With customized care, advanced orthodontic technology, and flexible financing, we make it easy for families across Central Ohio to take the first step toward a healthy, confident smile.
Early orthodontic treatment (also called phase one orthodontic treatment) typically begins between ages 7 and 9, when your child has a mix of baby and permanent teeth. It focuses on addressing any potential alignment or bite issues before they become more complex.
Not every child needs early care, but for those who do, starting now can simplify future treatments and lead to better long-term outcomes.
Early orthodontic treatment does more than just straighten teeth. It also helps guide your child’s growth, setting the foundation for a healthy, confident smile that lasts a lifetime. Addressing orthodontic issues while your child is still developing can often prevent more complicated problems in the future. Key benefits of early treatment include:
Guiding jaw growth early can improve how the teeth and bite develop, setting the stage for a healthier, more balanced smile.
By creating space for adult teeth to come in properly, early orthodontics can reduce the chances of needing tooth extractions later.
Protruding front teeth are more likely to get bumped or damaged. Early care can help bring them into a safer position.
Some bite issues can affect how a child speaks or swallows. Early orthodontics can help improve function and comfort.
Fixing certain issues early can make any future orthodontic treatment faster, easier, and more affordable.
At Carmen Orthodontics, we provide a variety of early orthodontic treatment options to support your child’s growth and foster a healthy, confident smile. Our team is dedicated to helping you determine the best solution, whether your child requires minor adjustments or a more comprehensive treatment plan.
Invisalign First is designed specifically for growing children. These clear aligners are comfortable, removable, and nearly invisible, making them a popular option for kids and parents alike.
Dr. Jesse Carmen is a Top 1% Diamond Invisalign Provider, which means your child’s care is in expert hands. The clear aligners gently guide teeth and jaw development without brackets or wires (and with fewer in-office visits thanks to Dental Monitoring, a technology that allows Dr. Carmen to remotely check on your child’s progress).
For kids in Phase 1 treatment, we use traditional metal braces. These brackets are smaller and more comfortable than ever before, and they’re a tried-and-true method to straightening teeth.
Some kids may benefit from gentle appliances like palatal expanders or space maintainers, which help create room for adult teeth to grow correctly and guide healthy jaw development. These tools are simple, effective, and part of our early intervention toolbox when needed.
Your child’s first consultation is relaxed and informative. We take time to understand their unique smile and determine if early treatment is needed, or if it’s best to simply monitor their growth.
Here’s what happens during the visit:
We’ll make sure you leave with clear answers and a confident plan. No pressure, just expert care.
If your child doesn’t need early treatment, that’s great news! We’ll just keep an eye on things.
Most children don’t need early intervention, but regular check-ins allow us to catch any future issues early, which is why we offer complimentary growth monitoring. Every 6 to 8 months, we’ll check in, update your family dentist, and be ready to start treatment at the ideal time if it becomes necessary. This service is completely free to you.
See Why Families Across the Greater Columbus Area Trusts Carmen Orthodontics
Every smile starts with a conversation. If your child is around age 7, schedule a consultation at one of our locations in Columbus, Pickerington, or Canal Winchester. Our friendly, experienced team will guide you through the process and help you feel confident in your decision.
