Early Orthodontic Treatment in Colorado Springs, CO

A child's teeth during early braces treatment in Colorado.

When is the earliest I should be considering Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment for my child?

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) suggests that children should have their first orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. By this age, many permanent teeth have come in, allowing orthodontists to evaluate how the teeth, jaws, and bite work together. This early assessment helps identify whether a child's oral development is progressing well or if they might need early intervention.

Some signs that indicate a potential need for orthodontic attention include:

  • Premature or delayed loss of baby teeth

  • Crowded, misplaced, or blocked-out teeth

  • Insufficient space for permanent teeth to come in

  • Abnormal bite situations, such as cross-bites or open-bites

  • Difficulty chewing or biting

  • Finger or thumb sucking habits

  • Challenges with speech

  • Biting the cheeks or roof of the mouth

  • Presence of an underbite

If you notice any of these signs, please call to schedule a complimentary evaluation to ensure your child's oral health is on the right track. In many cases, no treatment is necessary; however, if treatment is needed, it can often facilitate proper growth and help prevent more serious issues down the road.

This type of treatment is called Phase I treatment because there will usually be a second treatment (Phase II) needed once all permanent teeth come in. This second phase in general is less complex than it would have been had the phase I not been completed.

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Expanders & Airway

If you’re a parent wondering when your child should see an orthodontist… this video is for you. Dr. Sanders is known for his incredible ability to connect with kids while delivering expert-level orthodontic care. From expanders to airway-focused treatment, he helps guide proper growth early—often starting around age 7. In this video, you’ll see a real patient journey, hear from a parent, and learn why early orthodontic treatment can make a lifelong difference.

Expert Orthodontic Care for Kids, Starting as Early as Age 7

At Sanders Orthodontics in Colorado Springs, CO, we believe a confident smile starts with a strong foundation. That’s why we emphasize the importance of early orthodontic evaluation—beginning as young as age 7—to guide proper jaw development, improve function, and help prevent more serious (and costly) issues down the road.

For parents, early treatment isn’t just about straight teeth—it’s about clarity and peace of mind. Even if no immediate treatment is needed, a simple consultation allows us to monitor your child’s growth and catch potential concerns before they become complex problems.

In many cases, early orthodontic intervention can help reduce the need for extractions, prevent impacted teeth, improve bite alignment, and support healthier airway development. Studies have shown that proper bite alignment and jaw development can contribute to improved breathing and overall wellness—impacting everything from sleep quality to long-term health.

At Sanders Orthodontics, we combine advanced technology with a personalized, family-first approach to ensure every patient feels confident, informed, and cared for from day one.

Why Families Choose Sanders Orthodontics

Early Evaluations Starting at Age 7

We proactively monitor growth and development to guide your child’s smile at the right time—no guesswork, just clarity.

Personalized Treatment for Every Stage

From early interceptive care to teen and adult treatment, every plan is tailored for optimal function, aesthetics, and long-term stability.

Advanced, Comfortable Technology

We use state-of-the-art digital scanning—no messy impressions—to deliver faster, more precise, and more comfortable care.

Modern Treatment Options

Choose from clear aligners or braces, depending on your needs and lifestyle, with expert guidance every step of the way.

Led by Dr. Sanders, our experienced team is dedicated to delivering orthodontic care with precision, compassion, and a deep understanding of how oral health connects to overall wellness. Whether we’re guiding early development or refining a final smile, our goal is simple: create results that look incredible and function even better.

Ready to Take the First Step?

Give your child the advantage of early insight and expert guidance. Contact Sanders Orthodontics today to schedule a consultation and discover what’s possible with the right timing and care.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial evaluation at age 7. At this stage, we can identify developmental concerns early and determine if treatment—or simple monitoring—is the best approach.

  • We use advanced 3D digital scanners to capture precise images of your child’s teeth and bite—fast, comfortable, and completely impression-free.

  • Not always. In many cases, early visits simply allow us to monitor growth and provide guidance. If treatment is needed, starting early can often simplify future care and prevent more complex issues.

  • We provide custom retainers to maintain your child’s results and protect their smile for the long term.