Early Orthodontic Care for Growing Teeth

We focus on providing gentle, consistent care to guide your child’s teeth and jaw development at every stage.
Start at the Right Time

Support Proper Dental Growth from the Beginning

At Greenway Orthodontics, early orthodontic care is about guiding how your child’s teeth and jaw develop correctly. When addressed at the right time, many issues can be managed before they turn into bigger concerns.
We follow a two-phase treatment approach for children, where needed. This helps correct alignment, spacing, and bite issues while your child is still growing.
With early care, your child can benefit from:
Understanding the Right Age

Why Age 7 Is Recommended for an Orthodontic Consultation

According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentists, age 7 is key for an orthodontic check-up because:

Permanent teeth begin to emerge

Early signs of crowding or bite issues can be noticed

Jaw growth patterns can be evaluated

Parent Experiences

Hear From Our Patients

How Treatment Progresses in Kids

A Clear Path for Your Child’s Dental Development

Early Intervention

Phase One:
Addressing Concerns Early

This phase focuses on guiding jaw growth and correcting early alignment issues while your child is still developing.

We may use appliances such as expanders or partial braces depending on what your child needs. This helps create space and improve alignment early on.

  • How Long Does it Take?

    Usually around 6 to 12 months.

  • Is This Needed for Every Child?

    Not always. It depends on how your child’s teeth and jaw are developing.

  • Common Issues Addressed:

    • Crowded or misaligned teeth
    • Bite concerns like overbite or crossbite
    • Early or delayed loss of baby teeth
    • Thumb sucking or similar habits
    • Speech-related concerns
    • Jaw growth imbalance

Monitoring Development

Allowing Natural Growth While Tracking Progress

After Phase One, we allow your child’s teeth to continue developing naturally.

During this period:

  • Permanent teeth continue to come in
  • Retainers may be used to maintain earlier corrections
  • Progress is monitored before the next stage

Final Alignment Stage

Phase Two:
Bringing Everything Into Position

This phase focuses on aligning all permanent teeth and correcting bite issues once growth is more complete.

We use braces or aligners to fine-tune the alignment and ensure proper function.

  • How Long Does it Take?

    Typically between 12 to 20 months, often during ages 11 to 15.

  • What to Expect:

    • Full braces or aligners for complete correction
    • A treatment plan based on your child’s needs
    • Shorter treatment if Phase One was completed earlier
    • Retainers after treatment to maintain results
Available Solutions

Explore Our Orthodontic Treatments for Children

Braces for Kids

A dependable option for correcting alignment and bite issues.

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Clear Aligners for Kids

Clear aligners designed for comfort and flexibility.

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Surgical Orthodontics for Kids

Recommended where advanced correction is required.

Know More

Why Early Care Helps

Long-Term Advantages of Early Orthodontic Treatment

Supports Jaw
Development

Guides how the jaw grows during early years.

Reduces Risk
of Injury

Proper alignment helps protect teeth from damage.

Helps with Speech Development

Addresses issues that may affect pronunciation.

Avoids Complex Procedures Later

Early correction can reduce the need for advanced treatments.

Improves Oral Health

Aligned teeth are easier to clean and maintain.

Creates Stable Results

Builds a foundation for long-term dental health.

Improves Confidence Over Time

Children often feel more comfortable as changes become visible.

What Parents Usually Ask

Answers to Common Questions

No. It depends on how their teeth and jaw are developing.

In many cases, yes. But early treatment can simplify the process.

An initial check at age 7 is usually recommended.

Yes, depending on the case, clear aligners can be an option. Book a consultation with us today so we can help assess your child’s case and provide you with a tailored treatment plan.

Phase One focuses on early correction. Phase Two focuses on final alignment.

Yes, it can reduce the chances of more complex problems later.

Look for crowding, bite issues, or habits like thumb sucking.

You can still schedule a consultation at any time.

Usually full-time at first, then only at night.

Yes, clear aligners may be suitable in some cases.

We check your child’s teeth, discuss concerns, and suggest next steps if needed. Book an appointment with us today.

Worried About Your Child’s Dental Health?

If your child is around 7 or older, it’s a good time to understand how their teeth are developing. Visit Greenway Orthodontics in Glen Burnie, MD, for a clear plan and straightforward guidance.