Early Orthodontic Treatment in Cincinnati, OH

Interceptive Care That Supports Lifelong Oral Health

At Martinez Orthodontics, we believe the foundation for a healthy smile begins early. Our early orthodontic treatment, also known as Phase 1 orthodontics, is designed to identify and address developing issues in a child’s teeth and jaw before they become more complex. By starting treatment at the right time, we can guide growth, reduce the need for future extractions, and improve both function and aesthetics.

Serving families across Cincinnati and neighboring areas like Bridgetown, Cheviot, Delhi Hills, and Westwood, our practice provides compassionate, expert care tailored to each child’s stage of development.

When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, most kids have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth, making it the perfect time to detect subtle issues with jaw growth, bite development, and tooth alignment.

During this initial visit, Dr. Cailynn West or Dr. Fernando Martinez will assess whether early intervention is needed or if your child should enter our orthodontic observation program, where we monitor development over time.

What Issues Can Early Orthodontic Treatment Address?

Early treatment helps prevent more serious problems later in adolescence. Phase 1 orthodontics can correct or manage:

Crossbites or underbites
Severe crowding or spacing
Protruding front teeth
Narrow dental arches
Premature loss of baby teeth
Jaw growth imbalances
Habits such as thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting

By identifying and treating these concerns early, we can often avoid the need for more invasive procedures later on.

What Does Early Treatment Involve?

Treatment will vary depending on your child’s needs, but it may include:

Limited braces or aligners on select teeth to influence jaw growth
Palatal expanders to widen the upper jaw and create space
Space maintainers to hold room for permanent teeth
Habit appliances to help stop thumb-sucking or other oral habits

These interventions typically take place over 12–18 months, after which we may recommend a rest period before beginning Phase 2 treatment in the teen years.

Why Choose Early Orthodontic Treatment at Martinez Orthodontics?

Our approach to early care is built on experience, precision, and a child-friendly environment. We use advanced tools like digital scanners to create accurate impressions without the mess of traditional molds, and we may incorporate 3D CT imaging when detailed diagnostics are required.

We’re committed to helping your child achieve a confident, functional smile while minimizing the time and cost of treatment. If your child progresses to full braces or Invisalign Teen, our team ensures a seamless transition to Phase 2 treatment.

Explore more of our orthodontic services to see how we support every age and stage of dental development.

Supporting Families Across Cincinnati

Parents choose Martinez Orthodontics not just for our technical excellence but for our warm, patient-first approach. We take the time to educate families about every aspect of treatment, and we work closely with you to determine the best timing and plan for your child.

Whether you’re visiting us from Cincinnati proper or nearby neighborhoods like Delhi Hills or Westwood, our team is here to provide early orthodontic guidance that leads to lifelong oral health.

Frequently Asked Questions About Early Orthodontic Treatment

Is every child who visits at age 7 going to need treatment?
No. Many children don’t need early treatment. Our job is to monitor growth and step in only when necessary. If treatment isn’t needed, your child may enter a monitoring phase until the ideal time for intervention.

Will early treatment eliminate the need for braces later on?
Not always. Phase 1 treatment addresses foundational issues, but many children will still need Phase 2 orthodontics in their teens. Early care can make later treatment faster, easier, and more effective.

How do I know if my child needs early treatment?
If your child has difficulty chewing, speech issues, visible bite misalignment, or habits like thumb-sucking, it’s worth scheduling an evaluation. However, the best way to know is through a professional exam.

Is treatment painful for kids?
Early orthodontic appliances are designed to be as comfortable and non-invasive as possible. Some pressure or soreness is normal at first, but most kids adapt quickly.

Does insurance cover early orthodontic treatment?
Coverage varies by provider and policy. Our team will help you verify your benefits and provide a clear estimate before beginning care.

Give Your Child the Best Start with Early Orthodontic Treatment

Healthy smiles start young. At Martinez Orthodontics, we’re here to guide your child’s dental development with gentle, effective care tailored to their needs.

Schedule an Orthodontic Evaluation