Early Orthodontic Treatment in Silver Spring and Olney, MD
When it comes to orthodontics, timing is everything. We follow the guidelines of the American Association of Orthodontists, which recommend that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This early visit allows Dr. Jean Hong to identify any potential issues and determine the ideal time to begin treatment, if needed.
Many local dentists are trained to recognize early orthodontic concerns and may refer your child to us even sooner if they spot something unusual.
Why Evaluate Children So Early?
Early orthodontic screenings allow us to catch problems before they get more complicated. Starting treatment early may:
Guide erupting teeth into a more ideal position
Preserve space for permanent teeth
Prevent trauma to protruding front teeth
Support jaw growth and bite alignment
Regulate the width of dental arches
Avoid the need for tooth extractions or impacted teeth
Correct oral habits, like thumb sucking
Eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech difficulties
By addressing problems early, we may reduce or even eliminate the need for more complex treatment later.
Will Early Treatment Eliminate the Need for Braces for Kids Later?
Early care can correct major issues and simplify future treatment, but it doesn’t always eliminate the need for braces during the teen years. Since not all permanent teeth have erupted during early treatment, a second phase (Phase II) is often recommended later for final alignment using braces or clear aligners.
However, in some cases, early care is so effective that no additional orthodontic treatment is required.
Is Early Orthodontic Treatment Right for Every Child?
Not always. Some orthodontic concerns are better treated during adolescence, once the permanent teeth have come in and jaw growth is more advanced. Skeletal issues, in particular, may require more time to develop before being addressed.
That’s why Dr. Hong takes a personalized approach to every child’s care. If early treatment isn’t needed, your child may be enrolled in our Orthodontic Supervisory Program, so we can monitor their development and intervene at the right time.
What Is the Orthodontic Supervisory Program?
Our Orthodontic Supervisory Program is a complimentary monitoring service for children who aren’t quite ready for braces. Here’s what it includes:
Routine check-ins at regular intervals
Monitoring the eruption pattern of permanent teeth
Recommending early removal of baby teeth, if needed, to help prevent misalignment
Coordinated care with your general dentist for optimal results
This proactive program helps us begin treatment at the best possible time, reducing the overall need for more extensive care later on.
Beyond a Straight Smile: The Lasting Benefits of Orthodontics
Orthodontic treatment does more than create a beautiful smile—it also supports lifelong oral health by:
Improving bite function
Enhancing oral hygiene by aligning teeth for easier cleaning
Preventing abnormal wear on teeth
Increasing the longevity of natural teeth
These benefits are especially impactful when orthodontic issues are caught and treated early.
Don’t Skip the Dentist During Treatment
Whether your child is in early treatment or in comprehensive treatment, routine dental visits are essential. Braces and appliances make oral hygiene more challenging, so we recommend continuing to see your family dentist every 6 months for checkups and professional cleanings.