Early Orthdontic Treatment in Seattle, WA

A healthy smile starts early. At Riolo Orthodontics in Seattle, we focus on early orthodontic treatment to guide jaw growth, improve bite function, and create space for permanent teeth before problems become more complex. This proactive approach to children’s orthodontics helps many kids avoid more extensive treatment later.

At What Age Should a Child First Visit the Pediatric Orthodontist?

We follow the American Association of Orthodontists’ guideline that children should have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7.

By this age, most kids have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, which allows Dr. Christopher Riolo to:

• Spot early signs of crowding or spacing

• Evaluate how the jaws are growing

• Decide whether early orthodontics should begin now or simply be monitored

Many family dentists in Seattle and nearby communities refer children even before age 7 if they notice concerns with jaw growth or tooth alignment.

Why Evaluate Children as Early as Age 7?

Early evaluation helps us:

• Guide erupting teeth into better positions.

• Preserve space for permanent teeth.

• Reduce the likelihood of fracturing protruded front teeth.

If early treatment is indicated, Dr. Riolo can gently guide jaw growth and incoming permanent teeth. Early treatment can also:

• Regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches.

• Create enough room for permanent teeth to erupt properly.

• Reduce the need for permanent tooth extractions.

• Lower the chances of permanent teeth becoming impacted.

• Correct thumb-sucking habits.

• Eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech problems.

In other words, early treatment often simplifies later treatment after all permanent teeth erupt.

Does Every Child Need Early Treatment?

Early treatment does not benefit all children. Certain orthodontic problems are easier to correct once all permanent teeth have come in. Some skeletal issues should not be addressed until jaw growth is more advanced or complete.

Dr. Riolo develops a treatment plan based on each child’s needs. If treatment isn’t necessary immediately, your child may be placed in our Orthodontic Supervisory Program. This program allows us to monitor dental development over time without starting braces too soon.

Will Early Treatment Prevent Braces for Kids Later?

Early treatment often reduces the amount of orthodontic work needed in the teen years but doesn’t always eliminate it completely. Because not all permanent teeth are present during Phase I treatment, final alignment usually requires a shorter Phase II with full braces or Invisalign.

In some cases, however, early treatment corrects enough that little or no additional care is necessary. Every child is different, which is why ongoing monitoring through our Orthodontic Supervisory Program is so important.

What Is the Orthodontic Supervisory Program?

This program is for patients who aren’t ready for treatment but need monitoring as they grow. Here’s how it works:

• Recall visits every 12 months to check tooth and jaw development.

• Early removal of baby teeth if needed to improve eruption patterns and reduce future treatment time.

• We notify your general dentist of any recommendations made during your visit.

• There is no fee for this program.

This watchful waiting approach ensures treatment starts at the optimal time for the best results.

Benefits Beyond a Straight Smile

Orthodontics isn’t just about looks. Early treatment can:

• Improve bite function, making chewing easier.

• Protect teeth from uneven wear, helping them last longer.

• Make brushing and flossing more effective, reducing the risk of cavities and gum issues.

• Boost self-confidence, even in young children.

A healthy, properly aligned smile has lifelong benefits.

Don’t Skip Dental Checkups

Even during orthodontic treatment, your child should continue seeing their family dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings. Braces and appliances make oral hygiene more challenging, so professional care helps keep teeth and gums healthy throughout treatment.

Give Your Child a Healthy Start

Early orthodontic evaluations are about being proactive, not pushy. Most children won’t need treatment right away, but for those who do, catching problems early can make a big difference.

Contact our office today to schedule your child’s early orthodontic screening in Seattle. It’s a simple step that can set them up for a lifetime of confident, healthy smiles.