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  1. Why do orthodontists start kids so young these days?

  2. Isn't seven years old too young for braces?

  3. Why do some children need braces twice?

In some cases it is extremely advantageous to start an orthodontic case at a young age. These children have major issues that if we wait to treat until all of the permanent teeth are in, will becomes much more difficult, and our options are much more limited. It's kind of a "Catch-22." We'd like to start early, around seven or eight years old to fix the major problems when they are easy to fix, but the permanent teeth don't come in until 12 or 13. Who wants braces on for six years?

So in these cases, we treat in two phases. In Phase I we take care of the major structural issues-- pushing the reset button on the growth so to speak. This usually lasts for a year to a year and a half. Then we take the braces off and allow proper growth to occur until all of the permanent teeth have erupted. At this time the braces go back on for their second year, or Phase II, to finish up what we couldn't get to when the baby teeth were present.

By treating in this fashion we get the best of both worlds. We can address the difficulties when they are easier, and address the bite when all of the permanent teeth have erupted. By dividing treatment into phases, the time spent in the braces is the same as those patients who only need one continuous time in braces- - total two to two and a half years. The only difference is there is a break in the middle.

Services for Child / Youth


  • Early screening
  • Habit therapy: thumbsucking and tounge thrusts
  • Preventative treatment
  • Corrective treatment
  • Traditional brackets

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I'd love to personally meet with you, and provide a free personalized consultation to discuss the most advantageous time to start your child's treatment.

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