For Children

Early Orthodontic Treatment for Children in Westwood

What is the difference between early orthodontic treatment and regular orthodontic treatment, and why might my child need early treatment? How will early treatment benefit my child in the long run?

These are just a few of the questions families ask when considering children’s orthodontics in Los Angeles. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist as early as age seven. At this point, Dr. Miriam Van Allen can evaluate whether your child will need orthodontic treatment and when to begin.

At our Westwood office on Wilshire Boulevard, early treatment (also known as Phase One) typically begins around age eight or nine (Phase Two will begin around age 11 or older). The goal of early treatment is to correct the growth of the jaw and certain bite problems, such as underbite. Early treatment also helps to make room for permanent teeth to come in properly, lessening the chance of extractions in the future.

How to tell if your child may need early orthodontic treatment:

• Early or late loss of baby teeth (your child should typically start losing teeth around age five, and will have all permanent teeth around age 13)
• Difficulty chewing and/or biting
• Mouth breathing
• Your child continues sucking his or her thumb (or fingers) after age five
• Speech impediments
• Protruding teeth (the top teeth and the bottom teeth extend away from each other)
• Teeth that don’t come together in a normal manner or even at all
• Shifting of the jaw when your child opens or closes his or her mouth (crossbites)
• Crowded front teeth around age seven or eight

What causes orthodontic problems, and how will early treatment benefit my child?

Orthodontic problems such as crowding of the teeth, too much space between the teeth, jaw growth problems, protruding teeth, and bad bites can be inherited or caused by injury to the mouth, early or late loss of baby teeth, or thumb-sucking habits.

Most children lose all their baby teeth by age 13, and by the end of their teen years, the jaw bones will harden and stop growing. Orthodontic procedures for adults often take more time and can involve tooth extraction or orthognathic surgery. Receiving early orthodontic treatment as a child can help prevent the need for orthodontics as an adult, leaving little to no chance of extraction or jaw surgery in the future.

If your child is between the ages of seven and eight and shows signs of needing orthodontic care, or if your family dentist in Westwood, Brentwood, or Century City has recommended a visit, please contact Van Allen Orthodontics to schedule a complimentary initial evaluation. Our team will provide your child with an initial exam and discuss the best next steps for a healthy, confident smile.

Children’s Orthodontics FAQs

When should my child see an orthodontist in Westwood?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first visit by age seven. Dr. Van Allen can check for crowded teeth, bite problems, and jaw growth even before all permanent teeth are in. Early evaluation does not always mean treatment starts right away.

What is early orthodontic treatment (Phase One)?

Early, or Phase One, treatment usually begins around age eight or nine. The goal is to guide jaw growth, correct issues like underbite or crossbite, and make room for permanent teeth so extractions are less likely later.

Can crowded teeth in children be treated early?

Yes. Crowded front teeth around age seven or eight are a common reason to start children’s orthodontics. Creating space while the jaws are still growing often makes later treatment shorter. Learn more on our crowded teeth and two-phase treatment pages.

How often will my child need orthodontic appointments?

If we are watching growth, visits may be about every six months. During active Phase One treatment, appointments are usually every four to eight weeks. We will give you a schedule at your complimentary consultation.

Is the first children’s orthodontic visit complimentary?

Yes. Families in Westwood, Brentwood, and Century City can schedule a complimentary initial evaluation at our Wilshire Boulevard office.

Do you offer payment plans for children’s orthodontics?

Yes. After your complimentary evaluation, we will review the cost of Phase One or later treatment and set up a payment plan that fits your budget. We accept most major credit cards and insurance plans (except HMO/DMO), and we can help with claims, HSA, and FSA paperwork. See our financial information page for details.