Trusted Early Orthodontics in Mayfield Heights, Twinsburg, & Cleveland
Early orthodontic care can set the stage for a healthy bite, easier growth, and a confident smile that lasts. At Success Orthodontics, our friendly team — led by Dr. Felix Gen — provides personalized, proactive care to guide developing smiles for kids, starting around age 5.
We proudly serve families across Twinsburg, Mayfield Heights, and Cleveland with advanced technology, clear explanations, and a calm, kid‑first approach. From thorough evaluations to thoughtful monitoring, we make it simple to understand your child’s needs and timing.
Ready to get answers and a plan that makes sense for your child? Start their smile journey today with a free evaluation.
What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment?
Sometimes referred to as phase 1 orthodontics, early treatment happens while baby teeth are still present. The goal is to guide jaw growth, correct developing bite issues, and create space for incoming adult teeth so they erupt in healthier positions. Not every child needs early treatment, but identifying concerns early can simplify or shorten future care and may prevent problems from becoming more complex.
The Benefits of Starting Orthodontic Treatment Early
Early care is about more than straight teeth; it’s about guiding growth for lifelong health and confidence. By assessing your child while they’re still developing, we can address issues at the ideal time and make future treatment smoother.
Better Long-Term Results
Guiding jaw and bite development early supports a healthier, more balanced smile as adult teeth come in
Less Need for Future Extractions
Creating room for erupting teeth can lower the chances of needing to remove permanent teeth later.
Lower Risk of Dental Injuries
Bringing protruding front teeth into safer positions can reduce the risk of chips and trauma.
Easier Speech and Swallowing
Correcting certain bite patterns can support clearer articulation and more comfortable function.
Simpler Treatment Later
Addressing key issues now can make any future braces or aligners faster and easier.
Confidence That Lasts
A smile that looks and feels better can boost self‑esteem during important growing years.
How To Know If Your Child Needs Early Orthodontic Treatment
Common issues we watch out for that may require early treatment include:
- Crowding or spacing: Too little or too much room can affect eruption and hygiene.
- Tooth eruption patterns: At age 7, many kids have first molars and several incisors; unusual timing or sequence can signal concerns.
- Underbite or crossbite: Jaw growth patterns that cause lower teeth to sit ahead of or inside the uppers can impact function and facial balance.
- Protrusion: Front teeth that stick out are more prone to injury and may reflect imbalanced growth.
- Deep bite or open bite: Excess overlap or lack of overlap can make chewing difficult and affect wear.
Not sure if your child has any of the above issues? We encourage you to set up a completely free evaluation so we can make sure their progress is on track and address any issues as needed.
The Types of Early Treatments We Provide
Every child is unique. Dr. Gen will recommend the right tools and treatments at the right time to support healthy growth and a confident result.
Invisalign® First
For the right cases, clear aligners like Invisalign provide a removable, nearly invisible option that’s comfortable and easy for brushing and flossing.
Braces for Kids
Low‑profile, efficient systems (including self‑ligating options like Pitts 21™) gently guide developing teeth and bites with fewer adjustments and smooth progress.
Palatal Expansion
When teeth crowding or a crossbite is present, expansion appliances can create space and guide jaw width for better eruption and bite balance. Expansion may be paired with braces or aligners as needed.
What Happens at My Child’s First Consultation?
Your child’s first visit is meant to be a relaxed and no‑pressure environment. Here’s an overview of what you can expect:
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We’ll start with a relaxing, no-pressure chat about your child’s oral health history and discuss your goals.
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Next, we’ll complete a gentle exam of their teeth and bite.
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We’ll then take photos and X-ray as needed.
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From there, perform a quick, mess-free iTero® digital scan.
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You’ll leave with a clear diagnosis and custom plan, along with straightforward information about insurance and flexible payment options. If treatment isn’t needed yet, we’ll simply monitor growth with periodic check‑ins (about every 6–8 months) so we can begin at the ideal time.
The Cost of Early Treatment
We know that early orthodontic treatment can set the foundation for success later on. That’s why we offer flexible financial options, interest-free payment plans, and support in maximizing insurance benefits to help make treatment more manageable. Families choose us not only for our affordability initiatives, but also for the exceptional care and attention our doctors provide. We take the time to understand your child’s growth, create a thoughtful treatment plan, and ensure every step supports healthy development and long-term confidence.
Ready To See If Early Treatment Is Right for Your Child?
We’re here to make things clear, comfortable, and kid‑friendly from the start. At Success Orthodontics, Dr. Gen and our caring team guide families across Twinsburg, Mayfield Heights, and Cleveland with proven tools like braces, clear aligners, and orthopedic expansion, all tailored to your child’s needs. Schedule a complimentary consultation with us and take the first step toward a healthy, confident smile for your child.
Frequently Asked Questions About Early Orthodontic Treatment
Phase 1 focuses on guiding jaw growth and creating space for developing teeth during childhood, often before all permanent teeth arrive. Phase 2 occurs later, typically in adolescence, to fine-tune alignment and bite once most or all adult teeth are present. Together, these phases support healthier development and help create a smoother path toward a confident, well-balanced smile.
Habits such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting can influence how a child’s jaws and bite develop, sometimes contributing to open bites, narrow arches, or shifting tooth positions over time. While every child is different, early evaluation helps us understand how these habits may be affecting growth. Our team offers gentle guidance to support healthier patterns and long-term oral development.
Early orthodontic treatment can help guide jaw growth and support better function, which may positively influence chewing, speech clarity, or breathing patterns in some children. While it isn’t a medical treatment, addressing structural concerns early often creates a healthier foundation for overall oral function. Dr. Gen takes a thoughtful, individualized approach to determine the support your child may benefit from.