Early Orthodontics Treatment in Bellevue, WA

At What Age Should a Child First Visit the Pediatric Orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that most children have an orthodontic screening by age seven. This allows Dr. Barton Soper to determine when treatment will be necessary and the best time to start. Many local dentists are trained to recognize early orthodontic issues and may refer your child to our office before age seven if concerns arise.

Why are Children Evaluated at Such an Early Age?

Early diagnosis and treatment can help guide erupting teeth into a more favorable position, preserve space for permanent teeth, and reduce the likelihood of fracturing protruded front teeth.

If early treatment is indicated, Dr. Soper can guide the growth of the jaw and incoming permanent teeth. Early intervention can also:

• Regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches
• Create space for permanent teeth
• Avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions
• Reduce the likelihood of impacted permanent teeth
• Correct thumb sucking
• Eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech problems

In other words, early treatment can simplify future treatment once all permanent teeth have erupted and is the best choice for your child’s dental health and growth.

Does Early Treatment Benefit All Children?

Early treatment doesn’t benefit every child. Some types of orthodontic issues can be addressed more efficiently during the teenage years when all the permanent teeth have fully erupted. Certain skeletal issues should not be treated until growth is more advanced or even completed.

Dr. Soper will create a treatment plan based on your child’s individual needs. If he determines that your child is not ready for treatment, they will be placed on our Orthodontic Supervisory Program. However, we still recommend that children be evaluated around age seven for the best results.

What is the Orthodontic Supervisory Program?

Our Orthodontic Supervisory Program is designed for children who are not yet ready for treatment and are placed on recall. This program will allow to:

• Monitor the eruption of permanent teeth
• Address poor eruption patterns early through the removal of baby teeth if necessary
• Reduce overall treatment time for braces

Children enrolled in the program are typically seen every 6–8 months to track their growth and progress. This service is free of charge and ensures our team can determine the optimal time to begin treatment for the most effective results.

In Addition to a Beautiful New Smile, What are Some Other Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment?

Braces can improve the function of the bite and teeth, make it easier to clean the teeth, prevent wear on the teeth, and increase the longevity of natural teeth over a lifetime.

If a Child Receives Early Treatment, Will this Prevent the Need for Braces for Kids?

Early treatment can begin addressing significant issues, prevent more severe problems from developing, and simplify future treatment. Since all permanent teeth may not have fully erupted at the time of early treatment, final alignment may not yet be achieved.

Typically, a shortened comprehensive phase of treatment (Phase II— Invisalign or full braces) in the teenage years, once all permanent teeth are in place, will complete the alignment. However, in some cases, further treatment may not be necessary.

Do We Still Need to See Our Family Dentist During Orthodontic Treatment?

Yes, patients with braces and other orthodontic appliances require extra effort to maintain clean teeth and gums. To ensure the highest level of dental health, we recommend regular check-ups and cleanings every six months with your family dentist throughout orthodontic treatment.