4000 SW 34th Ave #B, Amarillo, TX 79109
Why an Early Orthodontic Evaluation Matters
A child's jaw is still growing, which creates a unique opportunity to guide development in ways that are no longer possible once growth is complete. This is why the American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic evaluation by age seven, even before all baby teeth have been lost. At this stage, Dr. Gary Chapman can identify emerging issues with jaw size, tooth eruption, and bite alignment while there is still time to influence how the smile develops.
An early evaluation does not always mean early treatment. In many cases, the best plan is simply to monitor growth over time and step in only when treatment will offer the most benefit. What early evaluation does provide is peace of mind and a clear picture of what to expect as a child's smile continues to develop.
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Signs Your Child May Need an Evaluation
Parents are often the first to notice small signs that something may be developing differently than expected. Signs worth discussing with Dr. Chapman include:
- Losing baby teeth much earlier or later than siblings or peers
- Difficulty chewing or biting food comfortably
- Thumb sucking or pacifier habits continuing past early childhood
- Mouth breathing or snoring during sleep
- Crowded, overlapping, or noticeably misaligned teeth
- Jaws that appear too small or too large for the face
- Teeth that do not meet correctly, or a jaw that shifts when biting down
None of these signs automatically mean treatment is needed, but they are worth mentioning at an evaluation so growth and development can be properly assessed.
Understanding Two-Phase Treatment
Some children benefit from a treatment approach known as Two-Phase Treatment, which addresses jaw growth and alignment in two separate, purposeful stages rather than a single continuous course of treatment. The first phase typically begins while a child still has a mix of baby and permanent teeth, focusing on guiding jaw growth, correcting harmful habits, and creating adequate room for permanent teeth to erupt properly as they continue coming in over the following months and years.
After the first phase is complete, there is usually a resting period that allows more permanent teeth to erupt naturally before a second phase begins. This second phase, often involving braces or Spark clear aligners, completes alignment once the bulk of permanent teeth are present, building on the foundation established during the first phase rather than starting from scratch.
Not every child needs Two-Phase Treatment, and Dr. Chapman is careful to recommend this approach only when early intervention offers a clear, meaningful advantage over simply waiting for a single phase of treatment during the teenage years. Overusing early treatment when it is not truly needed does not serve a child's best interest, which is why each recommendation is based on individual evaluation rather than a blanket policy.
Learn More About Two-Phase Treatment
Treatment Options as Your Child Grows
Depending on age, growth patterns, and specific orthodontic needs, treatment options for children may include:
Growth guidance appliances
01
which help widen a narrow jaw or create space for developing teeth
Traditional braces
02
often used once enough permanent teeth have erupted to support full treatment
Space maintainers
03
which hold room open for permanent teeth after early loss of a baby tooth
Habit correction appliances
04
which help address prolonged thumb sucking or tongue thrust habits affecting bite development
Dr. Chapman selects the most appropriate option based on each child's individual growth pattern and orthodontic needs, rather than applying the same approach to every young patient.
A Comfortable, Kid Friendly Experience
Many children feel nervous before their first orthodontic visit, which is why the team at Dental Group Orthodontics takes extra care to make each appointment approachable and low stress. From clear, age appropriate explanations of what to expect to a welcoming office environment, the goal is to help kids feel comfortable and confident, not anxious, about orthodontic care.
Parents are encouraged to ask questions throughout the process, since a well informed parent often helps a child feel more at ease during evaluations and treatment.
Give Your Child the Best Start for a Healthy Smile
An early orthodontic evaluation is a simple first step that can make a meaningful difference in how your child's smile develops. Schedule an appointment with Dental Group Orthodontics to get started.
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