Early Orthodontic Treatment in Goodlettsville, TN

Start Your Child’s Smile Journey With Mary Cay Koen Orthodontics

Early orthodontic treatment, also known as Phase 1 orthodontics, is a proactive approach to orthodontic care for children that can address various tooth and bite misalignments, create space for adult teeth, and guide proper jaw development.

At Mary Cay Koen Orthodontics, patients become part of our office family when they begin treatment, and Dr. Koen provides early treatment to young patients with the same level of care and precision as she would for her two sons. Whether you live in or near Hendersonville, Nashville, or White House, you can rely on our team to provide a personalized, patient-first experience that is enjoyable and memorable.

Dr. Koen is here to help give your child the gift of a beautiful, healthy smile that they’ll love for life. Read on to discover more about Phase 1 orthodontics and how it can benefit your child.

What Is Involved in Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment?

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, it’s recommended that children see an orthodontist around age seven. It’s an ideal time for an initial evaluation because their baby teeth are still present and early signs of orthodontic issues are easier to detect.

If Dr. Koen discovers that orthodontic treatment is needed, she can use the latest technology and modern appliances like braces, clear aligners, or expanders to gently correct any jaw discrepancies and guide the proper eruption of permanent teeth. For more complex issues, further treatment may be needed after this initial phase, but it will likely be less invasive and more affordable than if Phase 1 treatment was not provided.

Sometimes, treatment isn’t needed right away. If that’s the case, Dr. Koen can monitor your child’s smile as it develops and step in at the perfect time if needed!

The Benefits of Starting Early Treatment

Dr. Koen recommends early treatment for your child because it does far more than align teeth. It builds a foundation for lasting oral health, boosts self-confidence, and educates you on how to best set your child up for a lifetime of bright, healthy smiles.

Here are some of the benefits of early orthodontic treatment:

A Strong Foundation for Lasting Smiles

By addressing bite and jaw discrepancies while your child’s facial bones are still developing, Dr. Koen can guide growth toward a balanced, functional smile that stands the test of time.

Less Invasive Care Down the Road

Stepping in early often means avoiding extractions, jaw surgery, or more extensive orthodontic work later, keeping treatment simpler and gentler.

Protecting Your Child’s Smile

Front teeth that stick out are more prone to chips and injuries during sports or play. Phase 1 braces or aligners can gently reposition them for better protection and peace of mind.

Better Speaking and Eating Habits

A misaligned bite can impact how your child chews and talks. Early orthodontics helps align teeth and jaws, supporting clearer speech and more comfortable eating.

Confidence When It Counts

A healthy, well-aligned smile during these formative years can boost your child’s confidence in school, sports, and social activities, helping them shine inside and out.

Signs Your Child May Benefit from Early Orthodontic Care

Starting early treatment for your child can set them up for a lifetime of beautiful smiles. It can also result in more affordable care and shorter treatment times if treatment becomes necessary in the future.

Here are some common issues that often benefit from early orthodontic care:

Crowded or Overlapping Teeth: When baby teeth don’t have enough room, it can create space issues for permanent teeth.
Front Teeth That Protrude or Don’t Meet: Teeth that stick out or fail to align properly increase risk of injury and uneven wear.
Thumb-Sucking, Tongue-Thrusting, or Mouth-Breathing Habits: These behaviors can shape jaw growth and bite development, and can benefit from early guidance.
Difficulty Chewing or Speaking Clearly: Misaligned bites often interfere with eating and clear speech.
Shifting Jaw or Uneven Bite: Noticeable jaw movement or one side fitting differently than the other when biting down may indicate underlying growth discrepancies.

See Why Goodlettsville Families Trust

Mary Cay Koen Orthodontics

Take the First Step Toward a Lifetime of Confident Smiles

Starting early treatment for your child can set them up for a lifetime of beautiful smiles. It can also result in more affordable care and shorter treatment times if treatment is necessary down the line. Begin your child’s orthodontic journey with Mary Cay Koen Orthodontics, where our team will make sure your child feels welcomed and cared for.

Schedule an early evaluation today, and let us design a personalized treatment plan that sets your child on the path to optimal oral health and lasting confidence.