When should my child first see an orthodontist?

In line with the American Association of Orthodontists recommendation, children should have an orthodontic evaluation by age 7 so that developing concerns can be identified early.

What is early or interceptive orthodontic treatment?

Early or interceptive orthodontic treatment focuses on guiding jaw growth, creating space for incoming permanent teeth, and correcting developing bite issues while a child is still growing.

What are the benefits of early orthodontic treatment?

Early treatment can help improve jaw development, reduce crowding, support better facial balance, and may reduce the need for extractions or more complex treatment later on.

Does every child need Phase 1 treatment?

Not every child will need Phase 1 treatment, but an early evaluation helps determine whether monitoring or active treatment is the best next step for your child.

Interceptive Care for Growing Kids

Early Orthodontic Treatment in Hendersonville & Cookeville, TN

At Koen Orthodontics, we understand that a confident, healthy smile starts early. That’s why we follow the American Association of Orthodontists’ recommendation to see children by age 7 for an initial evaluation. Our early treatment services – also called interceptive or phase 1 orthodontics – allow us to gently guide jaw and teeth development while your child is still growing, helping prevent more complex issues later on.

With over 35 years of experience, Dr. Koen and our team have helped countless families in Hendersonville and Cookeville, TN, with early orthodontic care. From your child’s first visit, we prioritize comfort, communication, and care, giving parents peace of mind and kids a head start on a lifetime of great oral health.

Wondering if your child is ready for early orthodontics? Let’s find out together. Schedule a complimentary consultation today.

What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment?

Early orthodontic treatment addresses developing concerns before they become bigger challenges. By evaluating your child’s teeth and jaw development early, we can intercept issues like overcrowding, crossbites, or excessive spacing, often eliminating the need for extractions or invasive procedures later in life.

Our early treatment approach may include appliances such as:

Bonded Expanders: These non-activated expanders gently widen the upper jaw over time, with no turning needed from parents.
Trans-Palatal Expanders (T-Rex): A stable, cemented appliance that improves upper jaw development.
Partial Braces or Space Maintainers: These devices correct alignment and preserve space for incoming teeth.

Every child is unique, and we tailor our recommendations based on their individual growth and orthodontic needs.

Why Is Early Treatment Important?

There are many important benefits to early orthodontic treatment, including:

Starting treatment at the right time can mean a simpler, shorter, and more effective journey to a healthy, happy smile.

Why Parents Trust Koen Orthodontics for Early Care

At Koen Orthodontics, families know their children are in expert hands. With decades of experience, a warm and friendly team, and a strong commitment to early, personalized care, we’ve earned the trust of parents throughout Hendersonville and Cookeville. Our thoughtful approach to early treatment helps kids feel comfortable and gives parents the confidence that their child’s smile is developing on the right track.

Here are some of the ways we stand out when it comes to early orthodontic care:

We Make It Easy: With two convenient locations in Cookeville and Hendersonville, it’s never hard to find expert care nearby.
No Surprises: We take the time to clearly explain your child’s needs and treatment options, with no confusing jargon or pressure.
A Comfortable Experience: Our offices are family-friendly, welcoming, and designed to help kids (and parents!) feel at ease.
Trusted by the Community: With decades of experience and a commitment to interceptive care, we’re proud to be a go-to provider in areas that haven’t always prioritized early orthodontics.

If you’d like to learn more, we recommended setting up a complimentary consultation with us. We can help answer your questions and evaluate your child’s current teeth and jaw development.

Invest in Their Smile Early On: Book Your Consultation Today

Choosing early orthodontic care is one of the best investments you can make in your child’s long-term oral health. Our friendly team at Koen Orthodontics is here to guide you through the process with warmth, expertise, and personalized care every step of the way. Whether you’re in Cookeville or Hendersonville, we will evaluate your child’s growth and create a plan that supports a confident, healthy smile for life.

Let’s take the first step together. Schedule your complimentary early evaluation.