Early Orthodontic Treatment in West Seattle, WA
You may be wondering when the right time is to bring your child to the orthodontist. At Sorensen Orthodontics, we follow the American Association of Orthodontists’ recommendation to schedule your child’s first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This early visit with Dr. Travis Sorensen helps us determine whether early orthodontic treatment is needed or if braces for kids are necessary, and, more importantly, the ideal time to begin.
Why a Pediatric Orthodontist Recommends Evaluating Kids by Age 7?
Even though your child may still have baby teeth, early evaluation offers key benefits:
Guides developing teeth into proper alignment
Preserves space for permanent teeth
Reduces the risk of injury to protruding front teeth
Helps detect jaw growth issues early on
Early treatment allows Dr. Sorensen to influence jaw development, correct harmful habits (like thumb sucking), and prevent more complex issues later on. By addressing concerns early, we can often make future treatment simpler, shorter, and more effective.
Will Early Treatment Eliminate the Need for Braces for Kids Later?
Early treatment often corrects major issues and simplifies future orthodontic care, but it doesn’t always eliminate the need for braces entirely. Most children who receive early treatment will still need a second phase of care (usually in the teen years) once all permanent teeth have erupted. However, this later phase is typically shorter and more straightforward.
Is Early Treatment Always Necessary?
Not every child will need early orthodontic care. In some cases, it’s better to wait until more adult teeth are present. Our approach is personalized—every child’s growth and dental needs are different. If treatment isn’t needed right away, we’ll enroll your child in our Orthodontic Supervisory Program to keep an eye on their development.
What is the Orthodontic Supervisory Program?
This complimentary program is designed for children who are not yet ready to begin treatment. Here’s how it works:
We monitor your child’s growth and tooth development every 6 to 8 months
We’ll evaluate when (or if) treatment should begin
We may recommend early removal of baby teeth to help permanent teeth erupt properly
Your general dentist is kept in the loop on all recommendations
By keeping a close watch during these formative years, we ensure your child receives the right treatment at the right time.
The Lasting Benefits of Early Orthodontic Care
Orthodontic treatment isn’t just about aesthetics. A straighter smile can:
Improve bite function and jaw alignment
Make brushing and flossing easier
Prevent uneven wear on teeth
Support long-term oral health
Keep Seeing Your Family Dentist!
Even during orthodontic treatment, it’s essential to maintain your child’s regular dental visits. Braces and appliances can make oral hygiene more challenging, so we strongly recommend continuing to see your family dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings.
