Is Early Orthodontic Treatment at Age 7 or 8 Preventive Care?
Posted on July 1, 2026
How Pitts21 System of Braces Helps Children Avoid Bigger Orthodontic Problems Later
Many parents wonder whether starting orthodontic treatment at a young age is truly necessary. If your child is only 7 or 8 years old, it can feel early to begin thinking about braces. At Four Corners Orthodontics & Dental, Dr. David Herman takes a different approach to early orthodontic care that focuses on prevention before small concerns become bigger problems later.
Using the Pitts21 System of Braces, Dr. Herman helps growing patients correct bite and jaw development issues early, often reducing the need for more complicated orthodontic treatment later in life.
If you are looking for an orthodontist in Farmington, NM for kids, understanding the benefits of early treatment can help you make the right decision for your child.
What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment?
Early orthodontic treatment, sometimes called Phase 1 treatment, typically begins around ages 7 to 8 when children still have a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth.
The goal is not simply to straighten teeth early.
Instead, treatment focuses on identifying and correcting developing skeletal or bite issues while a child is still growing.
This can help prevent future complications such as:
- Severe crowding of permanent teeth
- Jaw growth imbalances
- Bite issues that worsen over time
- The need for permanent tooth extractions later
- Future jaw surgery in adolescence or adulthood
- Longer orthodontic treatment during the teen years
At Four Corners Orthodontics & Dental, Dr. Herman believes early treatment should only happen when waiting could create more serious long-term problems.
Is Early Treatment Considered Preventive Care?
In many cases, yes. Preventive orthodontic care focuses on correcting issues before they become more severe and more difficult to treat. When certain bite problems are ignored during active growth years, children may eventually require more invasive treatment options. Early intervention allows orthodontists to guide facial development while the jaw is still growing naturally.
This proactive approach can often mean:
- Less time in braces later
- Lower likelihood of tooth extractions
- Reduced need for jaw surgery
- Better long-term bite stability
- Improved facial development during childhood growth
For families searching for preventive orthodontic care near Farmington, NM, early treatment can make a major difference.
Why Dr. Herman Uses Pitts21 System of Braces for Early Treatment
One reason families choose Four Corners Orthodontics & Dental is Dr. Herman’s advanced treatment philosophy. Unlike many orthodontic approaches that rely heavily on expanders or rubber bands for younger patients, Dr. Herman keeps treatment simple and comfortable. With the Pitts21 System of Braces, young patients often experience a more efficient treatment process that works with natural growth patterns.
Dr. Herman’s approach means:
- No bulky expanders
- No rubber bands for most early treatment patients
- More comfortable treatment for younger children
- Faster correction of bite and growth concerns
- More efficient treatment planning as permanent teeth develop
Parents looking for comfortable braces for kids in Farmington, NM often appreciate this modern approach.
Three Common Problems That May Need Early Orthodontic Treatment
Not every child needs braces early, but there are certain issues that should be evaluated as soon as possible.
- Crossbite or Narrow Dental Arches
When upper teeth fit inside lower teeth, the jaw can begin developing unevenly. If untreated, this may affect facial growth and create long-term bite complications. Early intervention helps guide healthier jaw development while children are still growing.
- Severe Crowding
Some children do not have enough space for permanent teeth to erupt correctly. Crowding that develops early can eventually lead to impacted teeth, difficult brushing, and more complicated orthodontic treatment later. Addressing this early may reduce the need for extractions later on.
- Jaw Growth Imbalances
Sometimes upper and lower jaws are developing at different rates. When identified early, orthodontic treatment can guide development while the child is still growing naturally. Waiting too long may leave surgery as the only option later.
Most Early Treatment Is Finished in Just One Year
One concern parents often have is how long treatment will take. At Four Corners Orthodontics & Dental, most early orthodontic treatment cases are completed in approximately 12 months.
After treatment finishes, patients continue growing naturally and are monitored over time. A second phase of treatment during middle school may still be recommended later, but early intervention often means significantly less overall treatment time.
Families love knowing treatment can begin early while still saving time in the long run.
Same Day Braces Means Less Waiting and Faster Treatment
At Four Corners Orthodontics & Dental, families appreciate convenience. For many patients, treatment can begin the very same day as the consultation. That means fewer appointments, less time away from school or work, and a faster path toward a healthy smile.
For busy families searching for same day braces in Farmington, NM, this makes orthodontic care much easier.
Why Families Across the Four Corners Area Choose Dr. Herman
Patients throughout the region trust Dr. Herman because of his advanced treatment methods and commitment to creating long-term healthy smiles. Families travel from throughout the region for expert orthodontic care.
We proudly serve patients in:
- Farmington, New Mexico
- Kayenta, Arizona
- Communities throughout the Four Corners region
As the #1 orthodontist serving the Four Corners area, Dr. Herman is known for delivering exceptional results while avoiding unnecessary treatment whenever possible.
Whether you are looking for braces for kids, family orthodontic treatment, or adult braces near Farmington, our team is here to help.
When Should Your Child Have Their First Orthodontic Evaluation?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children have their first orthodontic evaluation around age 7. Even if treatment is not needed immediately, an early exam helps identify growth concerns before they become bigger issues. The earlier potential problems are identified, the more treatment options may be available.
Schedule a Consultation with Four Corners Orthodontics & Dental
If you are wondering whether early orthodontic treatment could help your child, scheduling a consultation is the best place to start. At Four Corners Orthodontics & Dental, Dr. Herman uses the advanced Pitts21 System of Braces to create efficient, comfortable treatment plans designed around long-term results.
If you are searching for an experienced orthodontist serving Farmington, Gallup, Chinle, Kayenta, and the surrounding Four Corners communities, we are ready to help.
Your child’s future smile starts with the right treatment at the right time.