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When it comes to your child’s smile, early care can make a big difference. At Artemis Smiles Orthodontics, we often hear the question from parents: “How early should my child see an orthodontist?”
The answer might surprise you—age seven is the recommended time for a child’s first orthodontic evaluation. While that may seem young, early orthodontic treatment (also known as Phase One treatment) can help prevent more serious issues from developing and set the stage for a healthier, more confident smile.
Here’s what families in Sandy Springs, GA need to know about early orthodontic care.
Why Age Seven Is the Magic Number
By age seven, most children have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth. This combination gives orthodontists a clear view of how the smile is developing—and whether there are signs of potential problems such as:
- Crowding or spacing issues
- Bite problems (underbite, overbite, crossbite)
- Jaw growth irregularities
- Early loss of baby teeth or delayed eruption of permanent teeth
- Thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting habits
Catching these issues early allows our team at Artemis Smiles to guide your child’s oral development and reduce the need for more complex treatment later on.
What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment (Phase One)?
Phase One orthodontic treatment is designed for children ages seven to ten who show signs of orthodontic concerns that should be addressed while their jaws and bones are still growing. Treatment typically lasts nine to 12 months and may involve:
- Limited braces or clear aligners (like Invisalign First)
- Space maintainers or expanders
- Habit-correcting appliances
The goal isn’t to perfect the smile just yet—it’s to create the right foundation for permanent teeth to come in properly and to guide jaw growth in the right direction.
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Care
Early intervention offers several advantages, including:
- Reducing the need for tooth extractions later
- Improving facial balance and jaw alignment
- Making Phase 2 treatment shorter and simpler
- Preventing emotional discomfort caused by crowding or noticeable bite issues
- Boosting your child’s confidence at a young age
And with modern options like Invisalign First, early treatment can be gentle, comfortable, and kid-friendly—no metal expanders or frequent emergencies.
What to Expect at Your Child’s First Visit
At Artemis Smiles, we know early orthodontic visits can feel intimidating for kids, so we make the experience fun, educational, and relaxed. Your child will receive:
- A friendly introduction to our team (and a hello from Tito, our office dog!)
- Digital 3D scans (no goopy impressions!)
- A comprehensive evaluation by Dr. Bennie
- A clear explanation of any concerns and next steps
There’s no pressure to start treatment if it’s not needed—we’ll simply monitor your child’s smile as they grow and keep you informed along the way.
Why Choose Artemis Smiles for Early Orthodontic Treatment in Sandy Springs?
We specialize in creating positive experiences for young patients, combining advanced technology with a welcoming, kid-friendly environment. From Netflix and Apple TV during appointments to our Debond Celebration Wall and in-office photo booth, we make each visit something to smile about.
Parents also appreciate our flexible payment options, including low down payments, 0% interest financing, and full insurance support—making early care more accessible than ever.
Early orthodontic treatment can lead to lifelong benefits—and we’re here to guide you through it every step of the way.
