Early Orthodontic Treatment

Early Orthodontic Treatment in Salem, OR

Convenient Locations in Salem, Silverton, Stayton, & Woodburn

At Bigfoot Orthodontics, we believe that your child should start building a strong foundation for better jaw growth in order to achieve a lifetime of healthy smiles.

According to the American Association of Orthodontics, it is recommended that all children should have their orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7.

By doing so, Bigfoot Orthodontics, can detect any early indications of common orthodontic problems such as crowding, crossbites, or premature loss of baby teeth that can lead to development issues.

During your child’s consultation with Dr. Johnson, he can determine if early treatment is necessary through a two phase approach. Each phase begins at the appropriate time that is determined by your child’s dental needs and growth.

Early Treatment

Starting treatment early can prevent:

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Bad oral habits

such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting

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Crowded or misplaced teeth

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Misalignment of the jaws

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Misalignment of the jaws (too forward or too back)

Two-Phase Treatment

Advantages of a Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment

Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a very specialized process which encompasses skeletal and facial changes as well as teeth straightening. With today’s emphasis on living longer, being healthy, and looking our best, the major advantage of a two-phase treatment is that it maximizes the possibility of achieving these goals.

Early Treatment

Phase 1: Early Treatment

The Phase 1 treatment is designed to provide enough space for the permanent adult teeth to erupt properly. Without the necessary alignments, it can cause serious dental problems that may need teeth removal or jaw surgery in the future.

Dr. Johnson may provide your child with the appropriate dental appliance to correct any crossbites, underbites, overcrowding, and gapped teeth. This treatment usually lasts between 9 to 18 months and is carefully monitored by our Salem, OR orthodontist.

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Permanent teeth are moved into the proper position to perfect the smile.

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Designed to provide enough space for permanent adult teeth to erupt properly.

Perfecting the Smile

Phase 2: Perfecting the Smile

Once all the permanent teeth have erupted, Phase 2 treatment can begin. Using traditional metal braces or Invisalign , all the permanent teeth are moved into the proper position along the jaws to maximize their appearance and functionality.

Once this treatment is completed, your child will be required to wear retainers in order to maintain that beautiful, new smile.

For our youngest patients

Join the Lil' Foot Trail Scouts Kids Club

Every great smile starts with a little adventure. Our Kids Club turns routine visits into a trail of badges from enrolling and tooth checks with Dr. Johnson, to office contests and at-home habits all leading up to that exam day milestone.

Along the way, your child collects badges for good habits, office visits, and creative activities, building excitement for their orthodontic journey before treatment even begins.

The Trail Scout badges

Eight badges to collect on the way to your exam

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Enroll in the Kids Club

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Tooth check with Dr. J

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Enter an office contest

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Learn a fun fact from our site

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Draw a picture that tells about you

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Brush your teeth at the office

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Bring a clean smiles card from your dentist

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Come in for your exam

Collect all eight and your child is ready for their next step toward a great smile.

Lil’ Foot approved

Ready to Begin?

Schedule A Children’s Orthodontist Appointment in Salem

If you are unsure if your child needs orthodontic treatment in Salem or have any questions in regards to our Two Phase process, please feel free to contact us. Our experienced children’s orthodontist will work closely with you to ensure that your child is receiving the best orthodontic care possible.

Salem · Silverton · Stayton · Woodburn