Led by the experienced and compassionate Dr. Maria Yazji, our team is dedicated to ensuring that every child gets the right treatment at the right time. While many people think braces and aligners are only for teenagers, the truth is that the foundation for a beautiful, functional smile begins much earlier.
Why Early Evaluation Matters
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic check-up no later than age seven. By this age, enough permanent teeth have come in for an orthodontist to evaluate how the child’s teeth and jaws are developing.
Early orthodontic evaluations help identify potential problems that may be easier to correct while a child’s facial and jaw bones are still growing. At Smarter Orthodontics, we use the latest diagnostic tools and techniques to assess each child’s unique needs and create a personalized plan when needed.
Common issues detected during early evaluations include:
- Crowding or spacing of teeth
- Crossbites, overbites, or underbites
- Early loss of baby teeth
- Habits like thumb sucking that can affect jaw development
Identifying these concerns early can help reduce or even eliminate the need for more invasive treatment later in life.
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic problems don’t just affect appearance, they can lead to speech difficulties, chewing problems, and even damage to permanent teeth. An early evaluation by Dr. Yazji can reveal subtle issues with jaw growth or emerging teeth that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Some benefits of early treatment include:
- Creating room for crowded teeth
- Guiding jaw growth for better facial symmetry
- Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
- Improving oral habits
- Enhancing overall bite and function
At our Weston, Brickell, and Miami locations, Smarter Orthodontics provides a calm and welcoming environment for children and their families. We believe orthodontic care should be a positive experience from the very beginning.
Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment
In some cases, early treatment is part of a two-phase orthodontic approach. The first phase typically begins around age seven to ten and focuses on guiding jaw development and addressing significant issues. The second phase usually occurs during adolescence and focuses on aligning teeth and refining the bite.
By starting treatment early, we can set the stage for more efficient and shorter orthodontic treatment in the teenage years. This proactive approach often reduces the need for tooth extractions or surgery later on.
Dr. Yazji and the team at Smarter Orthodontics are experts in evaluating whether a two-phase approach is right for your child. We focus on providing honest, informed guidance so you can feel confident in every step of the process.
What to Expect During Your Child’s Evaluation
During your child’s first visit to Smarter Orthodontics, we’ll take a comprehensive look at their dental development. This includes digital imaging, a review of their dental history, and a gentle physical examination.
Dr. Yazji will discuss her findings with you and provide recommendations if any early treatment is advised. We always take the time to explain your child’s needs and answer your questions, so you feel informed and comfortable moving forward.
We understand that every child is different. That’s why we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all orthodontics. Our approach is tailored to your child’s growth and specific smile goals.
Why Choose Smarter Orthodontics?
Choosing the right orthodontist is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your child’s health. At Smarter Orthodontics, we are proud to be a trusted provider for families throughout Miami, Brickell, and Weston.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Over 30 years of experience in orthodontics
- Led by Dr. Maria Yazji, an esteemed orthodontist with a patient-centered philosophy
- State-of-the-art facilities and digital imaging technology
- Flexible payment plans and financing options
- Bilingual staff to serve both English and Spanish-speaking families
We’re not just creating beautiful smiles, we’re helping children gain confidence, improve oral function, and feel great about themselves.
Explore more about our services for children to see how we can help your child get a head start on a healthier smile.
Take the First Step Toward Your Child’s Best Smile
Don’t wait for problems to appear before taking action. An early orthodontic evaluation is a simple and proactive way to ensure your child’s dental health is on the right track.
Whether you’re in Miami, Brickell, or Weston, the caring team at Smarter Orthodontics is here to guide you every step of the way. We believe every child deserves the opportunity to smile with confidence, and it all starts with a free consultation.
Call us today or request a complimentary consultation. Let us show you how early care makes all the difference.