Early Orthodontic Treatment in Olney, MD

A healthy, confident smile starts early. At Shlash Orthodontics, we provide early orthodontic treatment designed to identify and correct developing issues while your child is still growing.

By evaluating the teeth and jaws early, our pediatric orthodontist can guide proper development, address concerns before they worsen, and make future braces for kids or teen treatment easier, faster, and more predictable. Early orthodontics gives children in Olney a strong foundation for long-term oral health and a smile that grows with confidence.

When Should your Child First Visit the Orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this stage, Dr. Shlash can assess how the teeth and jaws are developing and determine whether treatment is needed now or later.

Early evaluations help guide proper growth and set the foundation for long-term oral health.

Why Evaluate So Young at 7 Years Old?

Age 7 is the ideal time to detect developing orthodontic issues because permanent teeth are beginning to emerge and jaw growth patterns are becoming more visible. Many dentists recognize early signs and may recommend an orthodontic visit even sooner if concerns arise.

Starting early allows for timely, conservative intervention.

Benefits of Early Diagnosis

Early orthodontic evaluations can help:

• Guide erupting teeth into healthier positions

• Preserve space for incoming permanent teeth

• Reduce the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth

• Address bite issues before they worsen

• Support proper jaw development

If early treatment is recommended, Dr. Shlash will gently guide tooth and jaw growth to prevent larger problems later.

What Can Early Orthodontic Treatment Address?

Early orthodontic intervention offers more than a head start, and it can prevent complications and reduce the need for more invasive procedures later. Conditions that can benefit from early treatment include:

• Narrow upper or lower dental arches

• Overcrowding or lack of space for permanent teeth

• Risk of impacted permanent teeth

• Underbites or crossbites that could lead to gum recession

• Thumb-sucking habits

Starting early can simplify Phase II (comprehensive treatment) in the early teen years.

Will Early Treatment Eliminate the Need for Braces for Kids Later?

Not always. Early orthodontic care is typically Phase I of a two-phase approach. While it can correct major issues, your child may still need Phase II treatment once all permanent teeth are in. However, Phase II is usually shorter and less complex thanks to early intervention.

Does Every Child Need Early Intervention?

Not necessarily. Some dental issues are better treated once all permanent teeth have erupted or after more skeletal growth occurs.

If no immediate treatment is needed, your child may be placed in our Orthodontic Recall Program to monitor their development.

What Is the Orthodontic Recall Program?

This no-cost program is designed for children who aren’t ready for treatment yet but may need it later.

• We track your child’s dental growth every 6–8 months

• We monitor the eruption of permanent teeth

• We may recommend early removal of baby teeth to improve alignment

• We notify your family dentist of any findings

Timely monitoring ensures treatment starts at the most effective time.

Long-Term Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic care supports more than aesthetics. Early treatment can:

• Improve how teeth fit together

• Reduce abnormal tooth wear

• Support clearer speech and better chewing

• Make oral hygiene easier

• Promote long-term dental stability

Early orthodontics helps protect your child’s oral health for life.