🌱 Early Growth Checks for Our Keiki (Ages 2–5)

At Kai Orthodontics, we believe little smiles deserve big attention! 💛 That’s why we offer early evaluations for keiki as young as 2 years old. These visits aren’t about braces—they’re about getting to know your child’s growth, habits, and breathing patterns so we can support healthy development right from the start.

We’ll gently check for things like thumb-sucking, mouth breathing, tongue ties, and how the jaws are growing. With a mix of observation, growth checks, and sometimes a simple appliance (like a nighttime trainer), we help guide their little faces and airways as they grow—kind of like orthodontic gardening. 🌸🌿

And yes, we do have treatment options for this age group! From habit correction tools to growth-guiding appliances, we tailor care to what your child needs most—gently and playfully.

Early orthodontic treatment—often referred to as Phase One—usually begins between the ages of 7 and 10, when a child’s jaw and facial bones are still growing. The purpose of early treatment is to address developing issues such as crowding, bite misalignment, and improper jaw growth. By intervening early, we can often minimize or even eliminate the need for more complex treatment in the future.

How Do I Know If My Child Needs Early Orthodontic Treatment?

While every child is different, there are several common signs that may indicate the need for early orthodontic care:

• Difficulty biting or chewing
• Mouth breathing
• Thumb-sucking or other oral habits
• Speech difficulties
• Teeth that don’t meet properly or appear crowded

If you notice any of these signs, we recommend scheduling a comprehensive orthodontic evaluation. Our team will assess your child’s dental and jaw development to determine whether early intervention is necessary.

What Appliances Are Used in Early Treatment?

Phase One treatment may involve various orthodontic appliances designed to guide jaw development, correct bite issues, and create space for permanent teeth. Common appliances include:

• Palatal Expanders – Used to widen the upper jaw and correct crossbites.
• Myobrace – A preventive appliance that encourages proper jaw alignment and supports healthy breathing habits.
• Space Maintainers – Help preserve space for permanent teeth if baby teeth are lost early, preventing unwanted shifting.

How Long Does Early Orthodontic Treatment Last?

The duration of early treatment varies depending on each child’s individual needs, but it typically lasts between 18 and 24 months. After Phase One is complete, your child may enter a resting period before potentially beginning Phase Two treatment (such as braces) during the teenage years.