Orthodontic Treatment for Children: Thoughtful Guidance for Development

Providing early orthodontic intervention is a thoughtful and proven strategy to secure optimal health and function for your child’s developing oral structure. Addressing misalignment and growth concerns early can effectively minimize or eliminate the need for more complex treatment during the teenage years. Our measured approach ensures we establish a reliable foundation for permanent teeth and comprehensive health.

When should my child receive their first orthodontic assessment?

We recommend scheduling an initial assessment around seven or eight years of age. At this stage, enough permanent teeth have erupted to allow our specialists to conduct a precise evaluation of the skeletal development and identify the early signs of potential alignment issues or bite discrepancies.

  • Assessment Over Treatment: An assessment does not guarantee treatment is needed. If no intervention is required immediately, we establish a monitoring process to oversee the child’s growth and intervene only at the precise time for maximum efficacy.

The Measured First Visit

Our team ensures a composed and secure environment for your child. The assessment is a gentle and measured evaluation of the teeth, bite, and jaw development. The clinical goal is proactive and preventative: to spot potential functional or developmental issues early so we can take thoughtful corrective steps.
This early, precise action can help:

  • Prevent Future Complexity: Reduce the likelihood of costly and extensive treatment later in life.
  • Guide Growth: Correct functional issues (like crossbites or crowding) while the jaw is still developing, ensuring a reliable path for incoming permanent teeth.
  • Improve Health Security: Properly aligned teeth provide protection against issues like excessive tooth wear and improve cleaning efficiency, reducing the risk of tooth decay.

Everyone was super friendly and made me feel comfortable immediately. My treatment plan was explained very well and all of my concerns were thoroughly addressed. So glad I scheduled with Mattingly and Howell Orthodontics! My daughter will need braces soon and I know for sure where she’ll be going 😊

C.P. Google

I had an excellent appointment today! Dr. Chris and his assistant, Mrs. Debbie, took really great care of me. The entire braces office is exceptional everything you need in one place with kind, hardworking staff. They are always on time and very professional. I truly appreciate the level of care and service they provide!

H.H. Google

I got aligners and even though I didn’t follow through with my schedule the way I was supposed to, I like coming to this office because everyone is great and I like them all. They treat me like family.

L.G. Google

I’ve been going to Mattingly & Howell Orthodontics for three years. The doctors and staff are always very friendly and upbeat. They really put you at ease! I have been receiving services to straighten my teeth with plastic aligners. The doctors have tried every means possible to help me receive the best outcome. I really appreciate their efforts and feel that I am in excellent hands!

S.F. Google

Really great team they have here!!! Laura was great!! My son got braces here and they were so patient with him.

B.S. Google

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Our mastery covers the full spectrum of early treatment needs, ensuring we select the most precise appliance for your child's specific diagnosis:

  • Invisalign® First for Children: A thoughtful and discreet clear aligner system specifically tailored to address growth and space management in developing smiles.
  • Conventional Braces: For cases requiring the greatest precision and control over tooth movement, metal or clear braces remain a highly reliable appliance.

Smiling Teenagers
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