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A Gentle Start For
Growing Smiles

Early orthodontic treatment helps guide your child’s dental development — creating healthier, happier smiles for life.

A young girl smiles while sitting in a dental chair, wearing a colorful polka dot bib. In the foreground, a dental hygienist in pink gloves holds a dental mirror and explorer near the girl’s mouth, preparing for an examination.
A smiling young boy in a dental office, wearing a grey long-sleeve shirt and a pink dental bib. He is sitting in a dental chair, pointing to his teeth with a cheerful expression. A dentist's sink and tools are visible in the background.

What Is Early
Orthodontic
Treatment?

Early orthodontic treatment, also known as Phase 1 orthodontics, focuses on guiding jaw growth and tooth development in children — typically between the ages of 7 and 11.

By addressing orthodontic issues early, we can often prevent more serious problems later, reduce the need for tooth extractions or surgery, and create space for permanent teeth to grow properly.

  • Guides jaw growth
  • Corrects harmful habits
  • Improves bite alignment
  • Simplifies future treatment

Why
Orthodontists

Recommend an Evaluation by Age 7

By age 7, children have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, allowing orthodontists to detect subtle problems before they become more complex.

Spot developing bite problems

Identify crowding or spacing concerns

Monitor jaw growth

Plan proactive treatment when needed

Book Early Evaluation
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Early Orthodontic
Treatment
Options

Each child receives a customized treatment plan based on growth, development, and individual needs.
A young girl sitting in a dental chair with her mouth open, while a dentist, wearing pink gloves, examines her teeth using a dental tool. The dental office features colorful furniture and equipment in the background.

Interceptive Orthodontics

Correct developing issues before they become more serious.
A dental image depicting a band and wire connector attached to molar teeth. The band is metallic and surrounds a tooth, while the wire connects to adjacent teeth, illustrating orthodontic hardware used for dental alignment.

Space Maintainers

Preserve space for permanent teeth after early tooth loss.

Why Starting Early Makes a
Big
Difference

Guides Jaw Growth

Early treatment supports proper jaw development, helping create better alignment as your child grows.

Reduces Future Treatment

Addressing issues early can minimize the need for more complex or lengthy orthodontic care later on.
A young girl with curly hair sitting in a dental chair smiles at a dentist wearing a pink shirt and gloves. The dentist is facing the girl, creating a friendly environment in a dental clinic.

Improves Function

Correcting bite issues early helps with chewing, speaking, and overall oral function.

Builds Confidence Early

A healthy, developing smile helps children feel more confident during important growing years.

What to Expect During Early
Treatment

01

Free Consultation

We evaluate your child’s smile and growth patterns.
02

Digital Scans 
& X-Rays

Safe imaging helps us understand jaw and tooth development.
03

Active Treatment

Gentle orthodontic appliances guide growth.
04

Growth Monitoring

We track development until permanent teeth emerge.

Gentle Care Parents Can
Trust

We understand that orthodontic treatment can feel overwhelming — especially for young children. Our doctors and team create a warm, friendly environment where kids feel safe, supported, and encouraged.

From colorful braces to positive reinforcement, every visit is designed to build confidence and comfort.

Free Consultation

Frequently Asked
Questions

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an evaluation by age 7 to identify potential concerns early.

Not always—many children are simply monitored over time until treatment is truly needed.

Crowding, early or late loss of baby teeth, difficulty chewing, or noticeable bite issues can all be signs.

Treatment is designed to be gentle and age-appropriate, with most children adjusting quickly.

In some cases, yes—but early treatment can make future care simpler, shorter, and more effective.

Stories from Our Smile Family

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As a parent navigating the chaos of a large family with five energetic kids, managing appointments can be a daunting task. However, Greeley Family Orthodontics’ dedication to providing top-notch care for our children has been nothing short of exemplary. Not only do they prioritize our kids’ dental health, but they also go the extra mile to ensure a family-friendly environment that puts everyone at ease. I wholeheartedly recommend this office to anyone in search of a dentist who truly understands the needs of families. With their expert care and attention to detail, our kids always leave their appointments with big, shiny smiles!

Sam
Parent of five patients

The entire team is so kind, patient, and great with kids. My child always feels comfortable and even looks forward to appointments…which says a lot! They do such a great job explaining everything to parents and little ones. As a Johnstown real estate agent and local mom, I really value having such a great office nearby. It’s a place I’m always happy to recommend to other families in Northern Colorado!

Jaclyn
Parent of two patients

This is a great place especially if you have a special needs child. The orthodontists are so patient and friendly with my autistic son. They always explain everything to him and they are very gentle.

DKS
Parent of one patient
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Visit Our Greeley Office

Phone

970-457-9920

Hours

Mon-Thurs: 8:30am - 4:30pm | Friday: 7:30am -2:30pm

Address

1911 59th Avenue, Greeley, CO 80634