Early Orthodontics & Braces for Kids in Riverview, FL

A Great Start to a Healthy Smile Begins With Early Orthodontic Care

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Is Your Child a Candidate for Early Orthodontics?

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children receive an orthodontic evaluation by age seven. This assessment determines if early orthodontic treatment is necessary, or if we can simply monitor for future need. Early orthodontics is a phase of care that minimizes the need for more complex treatment down the road. As a Board Certified Orthodontist, Dr. Matt Ahrens offers precision diagnostics and treatment planning for your family. He also has specific experience in early orthodontic care.

Early Orthodontics Riverview, FL

“We recommend the first early orthodontic evaluation to occur at age seven. We realize orthodontic treatment is a big investment of time and money so it’s important that we discuss the best plan for our young patients.”
Matthew Ahrens DMD

Early Orthodontics Offers a Bright, Healthy Future for Your Child’s Smile

Early Orthodontics Riverview, FL

By the time your child turns seven, the incisors (front teeth) and first permanent molars have most likely erupted. This is an excellent time for us to evaluate their growth pattern, and identify any irregularities. Certain problems like inadequate spacing, an impacted tooth and crossbite are easier and less expensive to treat earlier in life, when the jaw is still forming. Early orthodontic treatment may include limited braces, palatal expansion or wearing a retainer.

What can early orthodontics accomplish?

  • Prevent crowding by creating space for unerupted teeth
  • Create symmetry of the face by guiding jaw growth
  • Minimize the need for tooth extraction
  • Decrease treatment time with braces
  • Reduce future need for more complex treatment

Is Your Child Not Yet Ready for Braces? Let Them Join Our SWAG Crew!

Even if your child does not need early orthodontic care, scheduling a consultation by age seven lets us evaluate for treatment timing. They will be included in our SWAG (SouthShore Watching and Growing) Crew, a special club for kids in this watch-and-wait phase of care! SWAG Crew members receive a cool t-shirt and are included in contests and events here at SouthShore Orthodontics. Members also receive complimentary observation visits every six to 12 months. Such visits allow Dr. Matt to monitor your child’s jaw growth and dental development in these critical years.

Before and After

Before After
Before After

The Proof is in Our Patients

Early Orthodontics Riverview, FL
Abigail's Experience With Dr. Ahrens
Early Orthodontics Riverview, FL
Savana's Experience With Braces

Wondering if your child needs braces? Schedule an early orthodontic consultation today!

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