Starling Orthodontics provides comprehensive orthodontic care for children throughout every stage of dental development. From early growth guidance to full treatment with braces or aligners, Dr. Starling tailors every plan to a child's individual growth pattern and needs. Using advanced digital technology, including digital impressions with no uncomfortable molds, we make orthodontic visits comfortable and efficient for kids and stress-free for parents.
Early, or "Phase 1," treatment is orthodontic care that begins while a child still has some baby teeth, typically between ages 7 and 10. The goal isn't to straighten every tooth right away- it's to guide jaw growth, create room for incoming permanent teeth, and correct developing bite problems while a child's bones are still growing and most responsive to treatment.
Not every child needs Phase 1 treatment, and Dr. Starling will never recommend early intervention unless it offers a real benefit. When it is appropriate, early treatment can reduce the severity of problems like crowding, crossbites, and protruding front teeth, and in some cases can reduce the complexity of treatment a child needs as a teenager.
For children with mild to moderate alignment needs who are ready for the responsibility of a removable appliance, 3M Clarity aligners offer a nearly invisible treatment path. Because clear aligners depend on consistent daily wear to work, Dr. Starling will evaluate a child's age, maturity, and specific bite needs during the complimentary consultation to determine if aligners are the right fit.
Learn Moreor children who need the full corrective control of braces but want a less noticeable option, clear and ceramic braces offer a middle ground between traditional metal and lingual treatment. The brackets are made from tooth-colored or clear ceramic material, so they blend in with the teeth far more than standard metal brackets do.
Ceramic braces work the same way as metal braces- they're fixed in place and move teeth continuously, so there's no reliance on a child remembering to wear anything. This makes them a solid option for kids old enough for full treatment who are self-conscious about a "mouth full of metal," without the compliance demands of a removable aligner. Dr. Starling uses 3M Clarity Advanced ceramic braces, paired with the same advanced wire technology used across all of our treatment options, to deliver consistent results regardless of which appliance a child wears.
Metal braces remain one of the most effective and cost-efficient treatment options for children, especially for more involved cases requiring precise control over tooth and jaw development. Dr. Starling uses smaller, lower-profile brackets and modern wire technology, so today's braces are more comfortable and efficient than in years past.
Learn MoreFor children with a narrow upper jaw, palatal expanders are a common part of early orthodontic treatment. The appliance fits along the roof of the mouth and is adjusted gradually at home, applying gentle pressure to widen the upper jaw before the bones fuse together as a child gets older. This creates more room for permanent teeth to come in properly and can correct a crossbite, where the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when biting down.
Because palatal expansion relies on a natural suture in the roof of the mouth that's only responsive during growth, this treatment works best when started in childhood rather than waiting until the teenage years. Most children adjust to wearing an expander within the first few days, and treatment typically takes a few months to achieve the needed width. Dr. Starling will determine whether expansion is appropriate for your child during their orthodontic evaluation.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic evaluation no later than age 7. By this age, enough permanent teeth have typically emerged for Dr. Starling to spot early signs of crowding, bite misalignment, or jaw growth issues, even while many baby teeth are still present.An early evaluation doesn't necessarily mean immediate treatment. Many children are simply monitored at regular intervals as they grow. For children with an emerging issue, though, early evaluation allows Dr. Starling to guide growth and address problems while they're easiest to treat.
Does my 7-year-old need braces already?
Not necessarily. Most children who are evaluated at age 7 are simply monitored as they grow. Only children with a specific developing issue are recommended for early treatment at that age.
What is Phase 1 (early) orthodontic treatment?
Phase 1 treatment is orthodontic care started while a child still has baby teeth, generally focused on guiding jaw growth and creating space for permanent teeth rather than fully straightening every tooth.
Will my child need braces again later if they have early treatment now?
Sometimes. Phase 1 treatment can reduce the complexity of a child's later treatment, but many children still need a second phase of braces or aligners once all their permanent teeth have come in. Dr. Starling will outline what to expect for your child's specific case.
Is thumb-sucking a reason to see an orthodontist?
Yes. Prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use can affect how the front teeth and jaw develop, and it's one of the more common reasons parents bring children in for an early evaluation.
How much does early orthodontic treatment cost?
Cost depends on what treatment, if any, is recommended. Dr. Starling will provide a clear cost breakdown during your child's complimentary consultation, and most PPO insurance plans and flexible payment options are accepted.
At Starling Orthodontics, your child's first visit is always complimentary. Dr. Starling will examine your child's teeth, jaw, and bite development, walk you through any findings, and answer every question with zero pressure or obligation. Whether your child needs treatment now, ongoing monitoring, or gets a clean bill of health, you'll leave with a clear picture of where things stand.
Schedule your child's free consultation at our Brentwood, TN office today. We proudly serve families throughout Brentwood, Nashville, Franklin, and Middle Tennessee.
Please call (615) 507-1660 or click below to schedule your appointment online.
Please call (615) 507-1660 or click below to schedule your complimentary orthodontic consultation online.
