Orthodontics for Children in Indianapolis & Carmel
Early Monitoring for Healthy Smile Development
Your child’s first permanent teeth typically begin to erupt around age 6. These are called the 6-year molars, and unlike other adult teeth, they do not replace baby teeth—they come in behind them. Many parents notice a period of teething at this stage.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist for an evaluation by age 7. This is usually when the permanent front teeth begin to emerge. While age 7 is typically too young for braces, it is the ideal time to assess growth and development.
For most children, no immediate treatment is needed at this age. Instead, the orthodontist monitors facial growth, jaw development, and tooth eruption. By evaluating children early and at regular intervals, we can detect developing problems early—often allowing us to guide growth in a simpler, more effective way.
Conservative Pediatric Orthodontic Care
At Holland Orthodontics, with offices in Indianapolis and Carmel, Indiana, we take a conservative, growth-guided approach to orthodontic treatment for children. Because so much development is still occurring, our primary goal is to ensure your child’s growth stays on the right track.
We focus on:
- Preventing future dental and bite problems
- Protecting the development of permanent teeth
- Identifying issues early, before they become more complex
We also believe that building trust early matters. By seeing children regularly, our team forms positive relationships with young patients—so when treatment is eventually needed, kids feel comfortable, confident, and motivated to cooperate. Wearing elastics and following instructions is not easy for children, and we are proud of how well our patients rise to the challenge.
Interceptive (Early) Orthodontic Treatment
During routine growth evaluations, we may occasionally identify concerns that require early or interceptive treatment. These treatments are used only when a developing issue could worsen without early intervention.
Jaw Growth Concerns
If a child is developing:
- A narrow upper jaw, an expander may be recommended
- A recessive lower jaw, a Herbst appliance may be used
Each appliance has an ideal treatment window:
- Expanders are most effective around ages 9–10, when the upper jaw is most adaptable
- Herbst appliances are typically used during the adolescent growth spurt, often between ages 11–13
Using orthodontic X-rays and a comprehensive clinical exam, we carefully time these treatments to achieve the most effective and stable results.
Crowding & Crossbite in Children
Crowded teeth are common in growing children. In some cases, a spacer may be recommended to create room for incoming permanent teeth.
Another developmental concern we often detect early is anterior crossbite, where the upper front teeth sit behind the lower front teeth. When this occurs, limited braces on the front teeth may be used to guide the teeth into their proper position and prevent long-term damage to the teeth, gums, and jaw.
Trusted Pediatric Orthodontic Care
We are a proud member of the American Association of Orthodontists, and we follow nationally recognized guidelines for children’s orthodontic care.
You can also explore additional trusted information about Orthodontics for Children through the AAO.
Schedule a Growth Evaluation for Your Child
An early orthodontic evaluation is simple, comfortable, and often preventative. Scheduling this visit at the right time can make future treatment easier, shorter, and more effective.
