Early orthodontics & braces for kids
The childhood years are fundamental for building a strong self-esteem
Early orthodontic treatment can ensure that your child grows into a beautiful, healthy smile that serves them for a lifetime.
Dr. Abramowitz and our talented team have years of experience treating young patients with a gentle technique and advanced orthodontic technologies that make for a comfortable, efficient treatment process.
We’re proud to offer evening hours for flexible scheduling, along with extended financing options for affordable treatment, and Dental Monitoring for virtual, at-home check-in appointments after your child’s free initial exam! We care about making you and your child’s experience a positive, comfortable and convenient one.
What is the best age to get braces?
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should receive their first orthodontic exam by age 7. Around this age, the jaw bones are still developing and the permanent teeth are beginning to erupt.
If treatment is necessary or would be beneficial, it’s advantageous to begin the treatment process in the early teen years! When you bring your child in for his or her first orthodontic exam, this doesn’t mean the treatment will begin immediately. Every child is different and every child’s smile develops at a unique rate. Dr. Abramowitz will only suggest treatment if it can improve your child’s quality of life.
The purpose of early orthodontic treatment
Through early orthodontic treatment, our experienced doctors aim to:
- Improve the appearance of the smile to boost self-image and self-esteem.
- Guide proper development of the child’s jaw bones.
- Ensure that the upper and lower dental arches are wide enough to fit all of the permanent teeth.
- Prevent or reduce facial asymmetries (asymmetric growth).
- Prevent the teeth from crowding or being blocked out.
- Prevent the need for more severe treatment methods (such as jaw surgery or extractions) in the future.
- Correct damage from thumbsucking to improve speech, chewing function and appearance.
- Guide permanent teeth to a proper alignment.
- Decrease the risk of trauma to protruding teeth.
Phase 1 and Phase 2 orthodontic treatment
Early orthodontic treatment is most effective when separated into two phases, designed to work alongside the natural development of the teeth and jaw bones.
What is Phase 1 treatment?
Phase 1 orthodontic treatment is typically completed between the ages of 7 and 12. The purpose of this treatment is to establish a strong foundation with a sufficient amount of space for permanent teeth to emerge in alignment.
If your child’s palate (upper arch) is too narrow, this will be apparent during this time. The palatal expander appliance is often used during phase 1 to widen the upper jaw, creating enough space for all permanent teeth to fit in the mouth without crowding or overlapping.
What is Phase 2 treatment?
In most cases, phase 2 treatment will begin in the early teen years, when all (or most) baby teeth are lost, and all (or most) permanent teeth have fully emerged.
During this phase, we focus on the final position of all the teeth and jaw bones, as well as the esthetics of the smile. Full orthodontic treatment with braces is often completed to establish a harmonious, proportionate facial appearance.
Request your child’s first exam today
At your child’s first visit, we’ll perform an exam to assess their current condition and detect any problems that may become problematic in the near future. We’ll help you make the best decision for your child’s smile!
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at any time. We offer the highest quality of treatment in Central Florida—with convenient locations in Bartow and Winter Haven. Request a complimentary consultation for your child today!
