What to Expect During Early Orthodontic Treatment

Early orthodontic treatment goes beyond just achieving straighter teeth; it shapes your child’s healthy smile and growth from the start. Addressing bite, spacing, and oral habits early prevents larger problems later, giving your child a confident smile and a foundation for lifelong oral health. Discover how proactive care now ensures fewer complications and brighter futures.

Initial Consultation and Evaluation

The first step is a simple one: a visit to an orthodontist in Burnaby, BC. This appointment isn’t rushed. Your child will be gently introduced to the clinic environment, and the team will begin with a full examination of the teeth, jaws, and facial structure.

Here’s what typically happens:

• Digital X-rays help view tooth development and position.
  
• A visual exam checks for bite alignment, crowding, and spacing.
  
• Questions are asked about habits—thumb-sucking, breathing, or swallowing patterns.
  
• Impressions or scans may be taken to create a custom treatment plan.
  

By the end of this visit, you’ll understand your child’s current needs and whether early treatment is the right path forward.

Common Reasons for Early Treatment

Early intervention isn’t for every child, but for many, it makes a real difference. Here are some common signs that an early phase of treatment may be recommended:

• Crossbite or underbite
  
• Teeth that stick out
  
• Early or late loss of baby teeth
  
• Crowded or misplaced teeth
  
• Difficulty chewing or speaking
  
• Prolonged thumb-sucking
  

A local dentist or orthodontist can spot these issues early. Acting now avoids more complicated problems later.

Types of Appliances Used

Orthodontic appliances during early treatment are often simpler than what teens wear later. The goal is to guide growth, not just fix cosmetic concerns.

Here are some tools your child might use:

• Palatal expanders: Help in widening the upper jaw to make space and balance.
  
• Space maintainers: Keep gaps open for adult teeth to come in correctly.
  
• Partial braces: Align a few front teeth or adjust bite issues.
  
• Functional appliances: Help guide jaw growth into better alignment.
  
• Retainers: Hold improvements after active treatment ends.
  

Duration and Phases of Treatment

Early orthodontic treatment often takes place in two stages:

Phase One

• Usually begins between the ages of 6 and 10.
  
• Focuses on developing jaw structure, fixing early bite problems, and making space.
  
• Lasts 9–12 months on average.
  

Resting Period

• A break allows the remaining adult teeth to come in.
  
• Your child will visit occasionally for monitoring.
  

Phase Two

• Starts in the early teen years if needed.
  
• Focuses on final alignment and bite correction with braces or aligners.
  
• Completes the full orthodontic process.
  

This approach helps reduce the need for tooth extraction or jaw surgery later on.

What to Expect During Appointments

Regular visits are short, friendly, and supportive. There’s no need for kids to feel nervous—each visit is a chance to check progress, make adjustments, and answer questions.

Expect this during check-ins:

• Appliance check and adjustments
  
• Oral hygiene feedback
  
• Encouragement and reassurance for your child
  
• Next steps clearly explained to parents
  

Good communication builds trust. Your child knows what’s happening, and you know what to expect.

Managing Discomfort and Oral Hygiene

Mild soreness is normal, especially after adjustments. But don’t worry—it fades in a day or two. Encourage your child to:

• Eat soft foods after visits
  
• Rinse with warm salt water
  
• Use over-the-counter pain relief if needed
  

Oral hygiene matters more than ever during treatment. Help your child:

• Brush after every meal
  
• Floss daily, even with appliances
  
• Avoid sticky or hard snacks
  

If you’re unsure, your dentist in Burnaby will guide you through the right practices.

Parental Role in Treatment Success

Parents play a huge role. Your support helps your child stay motivated and feel proud of the journey. Here’s how you can help:

• Keep appointments consistent
  
• Encourage good brushing habits
  
• Check appliances daily
  
• Cheer on your child’s progress
  
• Ask questions—never hesitate
  

The more involved you are, the smoother the path becomes.

Final Thoughts: Building the Foundation for a Healthy Smile

Early orthodontic care shapes more than just a smile—it supports your child’s long-term oral health and confidence. Let the trusted team at Smile Dental Group guide your family through each step with care and clarity. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward a healthier, brighter smile that lasts well into the future.