Early Orthodontic Treatment in Calgary

Start Your Child's Smile Journey Early with Expert Orthodontic Care

At Impact Orthodontics, we believe that early orthodontic treatment can make a significant difference in your child’s oral health and overall confidence.

As a trusted orthodontic provider in Calgary, we specialize in identifying and addressing orthodontic issues in children at an early age, setting the foundation for a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles.

cute elementary boy smiling showing off his need for early orthodontic care

What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment?

Early orthodontic treatment, also known as Phase 1 treatment, refers to orthodontic care provided to children before all their permanent teeth have erupted—usually between the ages of 7 and 10. The goal is to address jaw growth issues, bite alignment, and space management to prevent more complex problems later on.

The Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this stage, we can detect potential issues and decide if early intervention is needed.

adorable adolescent girl showing of her front tooth gap in need of some phase 1 orthodontics

Why Is Early Orthodontic Treatment Important?

By identifying these problems early, we can simplify future treatment and, in some cases, eliminate the need for braces or more extensive orthodontic care later on.

Addressing orthodontic issues early can:

Guide proper jaw growth

to ensure balanced facial structure.

Create space for crowded teeth

and reduce the need for extractions.

Correct harmful oral habits

like thumb sucking and tongue thrusting.

Improve bite alignment

to prevent issues like overbites, underbites, and crossbites.

Enhance speech development

and oral function.

Reduce the risk of trauma

to protruding front teeth.

Signs Your Child May Need Early Orthodontic Treatment

Every child is different, but common signs that early orthodontic treatment may be needed include:

young boy wondering if he could use an orthodontist

If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to schedule a consultation with our team to determine if early treatment is beneficial.

What Does Early Orthodontic Treatment Involve?

At Impact Orthodontics, we tailor early treatment plans to your child’s unique needs. Common Phase 1 treatments include:

1. Space Maintainers & Expanders

If baby teeth are lost prematurely or there's not enough room for permanent teeth, space maintainers or palatal expanders can help guide proper tooth eruption and jaw development.

2. Braces for Select Teeth

In some cases, we may place braces on specific teeth to correct alignment issues and create space for future growth.

3. Habit Appliances

To correct thumb sucking or tongue thrusting, we offer habit-breaking appliances that discourage these behaviors and promote healthy oral development.

4. Bite Correction

We address early bite issues, such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites, to improve function and aesthetics.

After Phase 1 treatment, most children enter a resting phase to allow the remaining permanent teeth to come in. A second phase of treatment may follow, typically involving full braces or clear aligners to fine-tune the bite and alignment.

Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment

  • Simplifies Future Treatment: Early intervention can make Phase 2 treatment faster and less invasive.
  • Reduces Need for Tooth Extractions: Creating space early can prevent overcrowding that might otherwise require extractions.
  • Boosts Confidence: A healthy, aligned smile helps children feel more confident during important developmental years.
  • Improves Oral Health: Proper alignment reduces the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues.

What to Expect During Your Child’s First Orthodontic Visit

We’ll ensure you feel confident about your child’s orthodontic journey, whether immediate treatment is needed or just regular monitoring.

During your child’s first visit, our team will:

icon of a computer with a dental x-ray on it

1. Examine

Examine teeth, jaws, and facial structure using visual assessment and X-rays.

icon of a checklist

2. Evaluate

Evaluate bite and alignment to identify any existing or potential issues.

icon of a dental consultation

3. Discuss

Discuss treatment options if early intervention is recommended.

4. Answer

Answer your questions and provide a customized treatment plan.

Why Choose Impact Orthodontics for Early Treatment?

Experienced Orthodontic Team

Our skilled team specializes in early orthodontic care for children, using advanced technology for precise diagnosis and treatment.

Comfortable, Kid-Friendly Environment

Our office is designed to make young patients feel at ease during every visit.

Personalized Approach

We customize treatment plans based on your child’s specific needs, ensuring the best possible outcome.

Convenient Locations:

We have offices in Midnapore and Britannia, making it easy for families across Calgary to access high-quality orthodontic care.

Schedule a Free Consultation for Early Orthodontic Treatment in Calgary

If your child is around age 7 or you’ve noticed signs of orthodontic issues, don’t wait—early intervention can make a world of difference. Contact Impact Orthodontics today to schedule a FREE consultation and give your child the gift of a healthy, confident smile.

Schedule Your Free New Patient Exam