Trusted Phase 1 Orthodontics in Southeastern Virginia
At Woodard Orthodontics, we believe the best smiles start early. That’s why we specialize in early orthodontic treatment for children across Chesapeake, Suffolk, and the surrounding Southeastern Virginia region.
Early intervention helps us guide your child’s jaw growth, correct bite issues, and make space for incoming permanent teeth, reducing the need for more invasive treatment later in life. If your child is between the ages of 6 and 10, it’s the perfect time to evaluate their orthodontic health.What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment?
Early orthodontic treatment, also known as Phase 1 orthodontics, begins before all of your child’s permanent teeth have come in, typically between the ages of 6 and 10. The goal is to identify and address potential issues while your child’s jaw and facial structure are still developing. By guiding this growth early, we can often reduce the need for more involved treatments, such as tooth extractions or jaw surgery, later on.
Not every child will need early treatment, but an evaluation by age 7 helps us determine the best course of action. In some cases, we’ll recommend just monitoring their development until it’s time for Phase 2 treatments like braces or Invisalign®.
What Are the Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment?
Starting orthodontic treatment at the right time can make a big difference in your child’s smile. By taking a proactive approach, we can often simplify or reduce the need for future orthodontic treatments. These are some of the top reasons kids can benefit from early treatment:
Better Jaw and Bite Development
Addressing jaw development early helps ensure that the teeth align properly as they come in, laying the groundwork for a healthy and balanced smile.
Less Likely to Need Extractions
Early orthodontic care can help prevent crowding and make room for incoming permanent teeth, often reducing the need for tooth extractions down the road.
Reduced Risk of Dental Injuries
When the upper teeth stick out too far, there’s an increased chance of injury, especially if your child is active. Early treatment can help guide them back into better alignment to protect them.
Better Speech Development
Misaligned teeth or jaw issues may lead to lisping, difficulty pronouncing certain sounds, or unclear speech patterns. Early treatment can support the proper oral structure kids need for clearer, more confident communication.
Less Complex Treatments Later On
Tackling orthodontic issues in childhood may benefit treatments later on by making them more efficient, easier to manage, and less expensive.
Improved Confidence
Helping kids achieve a healthy, attractive smile at a young age can boost their confidence and positively shape how they see themselves during key developmental years.
Early Treatments We Provide at Woodard Orthodontics
We offer a variety of gentle, kid-friendly treatments designed to guide your child’s smile as it develops. From appliances that create space for incoming teeth to solutions that correct harmful habits or jaw growth concerns, our early treatment options are tailored to your child’s unique needs.
Invisalign First™ (Ages 6–10)
Invisalign® First is designed for children ages 6 to 10, offering a gentle way to guide developing smiles. These clear, removable aligners create space for incoming teeth, address crowding, and correct early bite issues, all while being comfortable and easy for kids to wear. It’s orthodontic care made simple and kid-friendly.
Palatal Expansion
A palatal expander gently widens the upper jaw to create more space for incoming permanent teeth and improve bite alignment. By guiding jaw growth while your child is still developing, this treatment can help prevent crowding, crossbites, and other issues, ultimately setting the stage for a healthier, more balanced smile.
Thumb Suck Habit Appliance
A thumb-sucking appliance is a gentle device that helps children break long-term oral habits that can affect tooth and jaw development. By discouraging thumb or finger sucking, this treatment protects your child’s bite alignment and supports healthier growth to promote straighter teeth and better oral function as they continue to develop.
Headgear
Headgear is sometimes recommended in early orthodontics to gently guide jaw growth and improve bite alignment. Worn part-time, this appliance helps correct overbites or other skeletal imbalances while a child is still developing. By addressing these issues early, headgear can reduce the need for more complex treatment later on.
Your Child’s First Visit for Early Treatment: What to Expect
Your child’s first visit is designed to be comfortable, informative, and stress-free. At Woodard Orthodontics, we take the time to get to know your child and answer all your questions while assessing their growth and smile needs. Here’s what you can expect:
- Warm Welcome: Our friendly team will make sure your child feels comfortable right away.
- Health & Dental History Review: We’ll discuss your child’s overall oral health and habits.
- Digital Imaging & Exam: X-rays, photos, or a 3D scan (if needed) to evaluate teeth and jaw growth.
- Expert Evaluation: Dr. Woodard or Dr. Lilli will explain any current concerns or potential future issues.
- Personalized Guidance: We’ll recommend whether treatment is needed now, or if monitoring is best.
- Time for Questions: Parents are encouraged to join the conversation and get clear answers.
Our goal is to give you peace of mind and help your child feel positive about their orthodontic journey from the very beginning.
Why Parents Trust Woodard Orthodontics for Early Treatment
Early Care You Can Count On | Woodard Orthodontics
With our caring, family-friendly team, two convenient locations in Chesapeake and Suffolk, and a proven track record of helping kids feel comfortable and confident, we’re proud to be Southeastern Virginia’s trusted choice for early orthodontics. We encourage you to schedule a complimentary consultation with us, where we can provide guidance on potential next steps.
