Trusted Local News

What Every South Jersey Parent Should Know About Early Orthodontic Treatment

  • News from our partners

For many South Jersey parents, orthodontic care may seem like something to think about later — perhaps when their child is a teenager and their permanent teeth are fully in. But waiting too long to consult an orthodontist could mean missing a critical window of opportunity to guide healthy dental development and even prevent more serious (and costly) issues down the road.

In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7 — long before most parents are thinking about braces or aligners.

So why so early? And what exactly should parents in communities like Atlantic City, Galloway, or Egg Harbor Township be looking for? Here’s what every South Jersey parent should know about early orthodontic treatment — also known as interceptive orthodontics.

Why Age 7 Is the Magic Number

At around age 7, most children have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth, making it an ideal time for an orthodontist to identify developing problems in the bite, jaw growth, and alignment of the teeth.

By this age, an orthodontist can often spot subtle issues that aren’t visible to a general dentist — such as crowdingoverbitesunderbites, or crossbites — even before all the adult teeth are in. While not every child will need treatment right away, early detection allows for proactive planning.

Think of it like this: catching a small crack in your foundation early gives you a chance to fix it before the whole structure shifts. The same goes for your child’s growing smile.

What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment?

Early orthodontic treatment (also known as Phase 1 orthodontics) refers to orthodontic care that begins before all the permanent teeth have erupted. The goal isn’t necessarily to straighten every tooth — that’s typically handled in Phase 2 during the teen years — but rather to create the best conditions for permanent teeth to come in properly.

Some common treatments during this early phase may include:

  • Expanders to widen a narrow jaw and create more space for teeth


  • Space maintainers to hold gaps open if baby teeth are lost too early


  • Partial braces to guide the position of a few teeth


  • Habit appliances to correct thumb sucking or tongue thrusting


  • Growth guidance to help correct skeletal jaw imbalances


Signs Your Child May Benefit From Early Orthodontic Care

You don’t need to be a dental expert to recognize some of the signs that your child could benefit from a consultation. Here are some red flags to watch for:

  • Early or late loss of baby teeth (before age 5 or after age 13)


  • Crowded, crooked, or blocked teeth


  • Difficulty chewing or biting


  • Mouth breathing (especially while sleeping)


  • Speech issues (such as lisping or difficulty pronouncing sounds)


  • Protruding teeth (commonly referred to as “buck teeth”)


  • Jaw shifting, clicking, or popping


  • Frequent biting of the cheeks or roof of the mouth


  • Thumb sucking beyond age 4


In many cases, these issues may not cause pain or major disruption now — but they can lead to serious problems in the future if not addressed early.

The Benefits of Early Intervention

Early orthodontic treatment offers several long-term benefits that go beyond aesthetics. Here are some key advantages for South Jersey families:

 Guides Jaw Growth

When a child’s jaw is still developing, it's easier to influence the direction and width of growth — helping to avoid skeletal discrepancies and potential jaw surgery later.

 Prevents Serious Problems Later

Intercepting bite issues early can often reduce the need for more extensive treatment in the teen years, including extractions or surgical procedures.

 Creates Space for Permanent Teeth

By expanding a narrow palate or preserving space, early treatment can help permanent teeth erupt in the correct positions — reducing the need for extractions or prolonged braces later on.

 Improves Facial Harmony

A healthy bite doesn’t just affect teeth — it influences the balance of the entire face, including the jawline and smile arc.

 Supports Better Oral Health

Well-aligned teeth are easier to brush and floss, which reduces the risk of cavities and gum disease.

 Boosts Self-Confidence

Addressing visible issues like protruding teeth or jaw misalignment early can help kids feel more confident socially and academically.

What to Expect at the First Orthodontic Visit

The initial consultation is generally non-invasive and free of pressure. Parents can expect the following:

  • A full review of the child’s medical and dental history


  • Digital photos and possibly a panoramic X-ray


  • A bite and alignment assessment


  • An evaluation of facial growth and jaw development


  • A discussion about whether treatment is needed now or should be monitored


In many cases, no immediate treatment is required — and the orthodontist will recommend periodic checkups to track development. But if early intervention is needed, it can typically be done in a gentle, kid-friendly way that fits into your family’s schedule and budget.

Choosing the Right Orthodontist in New Jersey

Not all orthodontic offices are alike. For families across New Jersey, it’s important to find a practice that:

  • Has experience with pediatric patients


  • Uses modern technology (like digital impressions and 3D scanning)


  • Offers flexible scheduling and financing


  • Focuses on education, transparency, and family involvement


If you’re located in North Jersey, for example, you might consider an orthodontist in Tenafly or an orthodontist in Emerson who specializes in early evaluations and airway-focused care. Many of these providers work closely with pediatric dentists to ensure a seamless treatment experience.

It’s About More Than Just Braces

Orthodontics is about setting kids up for success — physically, emotionally, and socially. A well-timed consultation can open the door to a lifetime of better health, fewer complications, and a smile that your child will be proud to share.

If you’re a parent in Atlantic City, Ventnor, Galloway, or any nearby South Jersey town, don’t wait until your child is a teenager to think about orthodontic care. By age 7, you could already be laying the foundation for a healthier, happier smile.

Final Thought: Prevention Is Power

Early orthodontic treatment isn’t about rushing to put braces on a 7-year-old — it’s about giving your child the best chance at a functional, confident, and beautiful smile. Even if no treatment is needed right away, that first visit can offer peace of mind and a clear roadmap for the future.

author

Chris Bates



STEWARTVILLE

JERSEY SHORE WEEKEND

LATEST NEWS

Real Estate Widget Fragment

Events

July

S M T W T F S
29 30 1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28 29 30 31 1 2

To Submit an Event Sign in first

Today's Events

No calendar events have been scheduled for today.