Early Orthodontic Treatment in Bloomington-Normal and Lincoln, IL
When Should My Child First Visit the Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this stage, Dr. Betsy Ulrich can assess your child’s developing teeth and jaw to determine whether early intervention is needed. Many local dentists are also trained to recognize early orthodontic concerns and may refer your child to our office even before age 7 if necessary.
Why Evaluate So Early?
Early diagnosis and treatment can:
- Guide emerging teeth into better positions
- Preserve space for permanent teeth
- Reduce the risk of injury to protruding front teeth
- Address jaw growth issues before they become severe
If early treatment is necessary, Dr. Ulrich can guide jaw development and create space for permanent teeth, potentially preventing extractions or complex treatments later. Early orthodontic care may also help with:
- Regulating jaw width
- Reducing the risk of impacted permanent teeth
- Correcting thumb-sucking habits
- Improving swallowing or speech issues
Does Every Child Need Early Treatment?
No—not all children benefit from early treatment. Some orthodontic concerns are best addressed during adolescence when all permanent teeth have erupted. If immediate treatment isn’t necessary, your child will be placed in our Grow Up Smiling for regular monitoring.
What Is the Grow Up Smiling Program?
The Grow Up Smiling Program is a free service designed for children ages 7 and older who don’t require immediate orthodontic treatment but need regular monitoring of their dental development. We offer check-ups to:
- Evaluate your child’s dental development
- Monitor permanent tooth eruption
- Provide guidance on early tooth removal if necessary
- Help reduce future treatment time when braces are needed.
This program is completely free, with no charge for initial and yearly check-ups. We also help you plan for future treatment, provide advice on insurance or benefits, and keep your family dentist informed throughout the process.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
Braces do more than straighten teeth—they improve oral health by:
- Enhancing bite function for better chewing and speech
- Making teeth easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities
- Preventing excessive wear and damage over time
Will Early Treatment Eliminate the Need for Braces Later?
Early treatment can prevent severe problems and simplify future care. However, because not all permanent teeth have erupted at an early age, many children will still require a shorter Phase II (comprehensive braces) treatment during their teen years to finalize alignment.
Should My Child Still See a Dentist During Orthodontic Treatment?
Absolutely! Braces and orthodontic appliances require extra care to keep teeth and gums healthy. We recommend visiting your family dentist every six months for regular cleanings and check-ups throughout orthodontic treatment.
