The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. That might seem young, but there’s solid reasoning behind it that we’ll explain as we explore how pediatric orthodontics works.
Why Early Orthodontic Evaluations Matter
By age seven, most children have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth, which gives Dr. McLagan the perfect opportunity to spot developing issues. We’re not necessarily looking to start treatment right away—in fact, many kids don’t need immediate intervention. However, this early assessment allows us to identify problems that are easier to correct while your child is still growing.
Some issues benefit tremendously from early treatment. Crossbites, severe crowding, and jaw growth problems respond better when addressed during childhood. Think of it like steering a ship—small adjustments early in the journey prevent you from ending up miles off course later.
What Pediatric Orthodontics Can Address
Children face a variety of orthodontic challenges as their teeth and jaws develop. Dr. McLagan has extensive experience treating the full spectrum of issues that affect young smiles:
Common Childhood Orthodontic Issues
- Crowding: When there’s not enough space for permanent teeth to come in properly, leading to overlapping or twisted teeth.
- Spacing problems: Gaps between teeth that might affect bite function or appearance.
- Bite irregularities: Overbites, underbites, and crossbites that can impact jaw development and tooth wear.
- Thumb sucking effects: Prolonged habits that push teeth out of alignment or affect palate development.
- Early or late tooth loss: When baby teeth fall out too soon or hang on too long, potentially block permanent teeth.
Each child’s situation is unique, and we tailor our approach to their specific needs and developmental stage. Some kids benefit from two-phase treatment, while others do better waiting until more permanent teeth arrive.
The Power of Two-Phase Treatment
Phase one treatment typically occurs between the ages of seven and ten, while your child still has baby teeth. We use this phase to create space for permanent teeth, guide jaw growth, or correct harmful bite patterns. Treatment might involve a palate expander, partial braces, or other appliances designed for growing mouths.
After phase one, we give your child’s mouth time to develop naturally. We monitor their progress during this rest period, watching as permanent teeth come in. Phase two usually begins around age eleven to thirteen, when most permanent teeth have erupted. This phase fine-tunes alignment and ensures everything fits together perfectly.
Not every child needs two-phase treatment. Some do great with a single phase of braces during their teenage years. Dr. McLagan evaluates each patient individually and recommends the approach that will deliver the best results with the least intervention necessary.
Our Child-Friendly Approach to Orthodontic Care
We’ve designed our Chattanooga practice with young patients in mind. Children can feel anxious about dental visits, so we work hard to make every appointment a positive and enjoyable experience. Our office offers amenities that help children feel at ease, and our team knows how to communicate with kids in a way they understand.
Dr. McLagan takes time to explain what he’s doing in kid-friendly language. We want your child to feel involved in their treatment, not like something is being done to them. When kids understand the process and feel heard, they become more cooperative and engaged in achieving their best smile.
Advanced Technology for Gentle Treatment
Modern pediatric orthodontics has come incredibly far, and the technology we use at River Mountain Orthodontics reflects that progress:
Diagnostic Excellence
- iTero Digital Scanner: No goopy impressions means no gagging or discomfort. Kids appreciate this more than anyone, and parents love that we can show them 3D images of their child’s teeth right on the screen.
- Digital X-rays: These expose your child to significantly less radiation than traditional X-rays while giving us detailed images instantly.
- 3D Imaging: Allows us to see exactly how your child’s teeth and jaw are developing, helping us plan treatment that works with their natural growth patterns.
We also use AI technology and CAD/CAM systems to create custom appliances that fit your child perfectly. These tools make treatment more comfortable and efficient, which is particularly important when working with young patients who have busy lives filled with school, sports, and activities.
Making Orthodontic Care Accessible
We know that orthodontic treatment represents an investment in your child’s future. River Mountain Orthodontics offers in-house financing options that make pediatric orthodontics accessible for families throughout Chattanooga. Our team explains all costs clearly and helps you find a payment plan that works within your budget.
Give Your Child the Gift of a Confident Smile
Dr. Raymond McLagan and our team at River Mountain Orthodontics are passionate about helping children develop healthy, beautiful smiles that last a lifetime. Early intervention can prevent more extensive treatment later, save time and money, and give your child the confidence that comes with loving their smile.
Is your child ready for their first orthodontic evaluation? Contact River Mountain Orthodontics on Hixson Pike today to schedule a consultation. We’ll assess your child’s dental development, answer all your questions, and create a personalized plan that sets them up for success. Let’s work together to give your child the foundation for a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles.
