Early Orthodontic Treatment
in Darien CT
Dr. Dan takes the time to personally evaluate each child and help parents understand what he sees, what may need attention, and when the right time for treatment may be. Sometimes the recommendation is to start treatment. Often, it’s simply to monitor growth and development and wait.
Either way, you’ll leave with clear answers and a plan built around what’s best for your child.
Book Complimentary Early ConsultationWhen Should My Child See an Orthodontist?
Why age 7? At this stage, children typically have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, giving Dr. Dan an opportunity to evaluate how the teeth, jaws, and bite are developing while there is still plenty of growth ahead.
An early evaluation can help identify concerns such as crowding, crossbites, jaw growth discrepancies, bite problems, and permanent teeth that may not be erupting as expected.
Most importantly, an evaluation at age 7 does not mean braces at age 7.
For many children, the best recommendation is simply to monitor their growth and development. Dr. Dan can follow those changes over time and recommend treatment only if and when it becomes beneficial.
Early answers. Thoughtful timing. No rushed treatment. That’s what you can expect at Darien Orthodontics.
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Evaluation
Early orthodontic treatment, sometimes called Phase One or interceptive treatment, may allow Dr. Dan to address a developing problem at a time when your child’s jaws and facial structures are still growing.
When appropriate, early treatment may help:
Guide jaw growth and development
Address certain crossbites and developing bite concerns
Create or preserve space for permanent teeth
Improve the path of eruption for developing permanent teeth
Address significant crowding when early intervention is beneficial
Reduce the risk of trauma to teeth that protrude significantly
Make later orthodontic treatment more predictable or straightforward in certain cases
Not every orthodontic problem needs to be treated early. The goal is not to start treatment sooner. It’s to identify the right care at the right time for your child.
Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment
Phase One orthodontics is early treatment for kids who still have a mix of baby and adult dentition, usually between ages 7 and 10. For the majority of children this is just an observational stage to monitor development. In some instances, for example, when the jaw is growing in a way that will crowd out incoming teeth, or a bite problem is getting worse instead of better, correcting it early is simpler and gentler than waiting until adult dentition. Dr. Jarrett follows the American Association of Orthodontists' guidance: a first check by age 7, treatment only when there's a real reason. If your child can wait, we'll tell you exactly that. We'll simply keep an eye on their growth with periodic check-ins.
Phase Two generally begins after most or all permanent teeth have erupted. This is the stage most people associate with traditional orthodontic treatment.
Depending on your child’s needs, Dr. Dan may recommend braces or clear aligners to align the teeth, refine the bite, and complete treatment.
Not every child needs two phases of orthodontic treatment. If Dr. Dan believes your child can safely wait and complete treatment in a single phase later, he’ll tell you.
Start With an Evaluation,
Not an Assumption
Every child grows differently, which is why Dr. Dan believes orthodontic recommendations should be based on the individual child, not simply their age.
At your complimentary consultation, Dr. Dan will personally evaluate your child’s teeth, bite, and facial development, explain what he sees in clear language, and answer your questions.The recommendation may be to start treatment, monitor and wait, or not pursue treatment at all.
Whatever the answer, our goal is to give you the information you need to feel confident about what comes next.
Getting Started is Easy
We are now open with expanded appointment availability for both new and existing patients.
Book online or call or text us to find an appointment that works for you.
Come in for your complimentary consultation, including digital X-rays and a personalized treatment plan.
If treatment is right for you or your child, we'll take the next step toward your new smile.