Early Orthodontic Treatment in Southeastern CT
With proper care, your child can grow up with a smile they’ll love for years. That’s why we offer specialized early orthodontic treatment at OASECT, designed to identify developing issues before they become more significant concerns.
Our experienced team is proud to serve families throughout Southeastern Connecticut, guiding children toward confident, healthy smiles with a proactive approach known as Phase One orthodontics. This type of treatment may require braces or Invisalign® clear aligners, with treatment plans that we specifically design for children.
Whether your child is ready for treatment now or just needs to be monitored as they grow, we’re here to provide personalized care in a welcoming environment. Let’s explore what early treatment means, how it works, and why it might be the best next step for your child’s smile.
When Should My Child Begin Phase One Orthodontic Treatment?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. At this age, adult molars begin to appear, allowing us to assess bite alignment and jaw growth. Because oral structures are still forming at this time, it’s often easier to correct any issues before they become more troublesome or complex.
Early orthodontic treatment, also known as early interceptive orthodontics, focuses on correcting bite problems, guiding jaw development, and creating space for permanent teeth. While not every child needs early treatment, these evaluations enable us to identify potential concerns and determine the ideal timing for care. If treatment isn’t needed right away, we offer a complimentary growth monitoring program with check-ins every 6 to 12 months to ensure your child’s smile stays on track.
Why Early Treatment Matters
Early orthodontic care at OASECT sets the foundation for lifelong oral health and confidence. By addressing developing issues while a child’s jaw and teeth are still growing, we can often prevent more complex problems later. Here are just a few reasons families across Southeastern CT trust us with their child’s early orthodontic journey:
Healthier Long-Term Outcomes
Early guidance of jaw and tooth development helps ensure a more stable and harmonious smile as your child grows.
Reduces Need for Future Extractions
By creating the right amount of space early, we reduce the need for permanent tooth removal down the line.
Protection Against Tooth Injuries
Adjusting protruding teeth lowers the risk of chips, fractures, and trauma from sports, play, or other accidents.
Improved Speech and Chewing
Correcting bite issues early can support clearer speech and more comfortable chewing and swallowing.
Streamlined Future Treatment
Intervening at the right time often leads to shorter, simpler treatment in the teen years.
Confidence at Every Stage
Helping your child feel good about their smile early can boost self-esteem through their most formative years.
Our Treatment Options for Kids
Using the latest orthodontic technology, we offer a range of child-friendly orthodontic solutions designed to fit your child’s specific needs, including:
Our Damon self-ligating braces are a reliable, modern option for early correction. These braces are lighter, more efficient, and more comfortable than traditional styles, helping to align young teeth and support healthy jaw growth without unnecessary discomfort.
Designed specifically for children ages 6 to 10, Invisalign First uses clear, removable aligners to gently guide developing teeth and jaws. Parents love how easy it is to maintain good oral hygiene with this treatment, and kids love how comfortable it is. As Platinum Invisalign Providers, OASECT delivers trusted expertise with every aligner.
When space is limited in the upper jaw, we may recommend a palatal expander. This appliance gently widens the jaw to create more room for erupting teeth, improving bite function and reducing the chances of future crowding. Expanders can also be paired with braces or Invisalign First for comprehensive Phase One results.
What Happens at Your Child’s First Visit?
Our initial consultation is all about comfort and education. During your first visit, we will:
- Review your child’s dental and medical history
- Conduct a gentle exam of the teeth, bite, and jaw
- Take digital X-rays and a quick, impression-free 3D scan
- Discuss any current or potential concerns
- Outline a personalized treatment plan, if needed
Whether treatment begins now or later, you’ll leave our office feeling informed, supported, and confident in your child’s smile journey.
Phase Two Treatment: What Comes Next?
For many children who receive early intervention, Phase Two orthodontic treatment begins in the early teen years once all permanent teeth have erupted. This phase focuses on refining the bite and achieving final alignment with either braces or clear aligners.
Thanks to the foundation laid during Phase One orthodontic treatment, Phase Two is often shorter and more efficient. It ensures the teeth fit harmoniously with the jaws, enhances facial aesthetics, and solidifies a lifetime of confident smiling.
Take the First Step Toward a Lifetime of Healthy Smiles
Early orthodontic evaluations empower you to make the best decisions for your child’s health and confidence. At OASECT, we’re proud to partner with parents across Southeastern CT to guide little smiles with care, compassion, and expertise.
Schedule a complimentary consultation today and discover if early orthodontic treatment is right for your child!
