Catching a smile problem early can save your child years of trouble down the road. Early orthodontic treatment gives Dr. Catherine the chance to guide growing teeth and jaws while they’re still developing.
At A Winning Smile Orthodontics, we help parents across Worthington and Columbus give their children the best possible start. Dr. Catherine Scheurer McDevitt, DMD, takes time to understand each child’s needs before recommending a plan.
What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment?
Early treatment, sometimes called interceptive orthodontics, is care that begins while your child still has a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth. It focuses on guiding growth rather than waiting for every problem to fully form.
The goal isn’t always braces right away. Sometimes a simple, well-timed step can prevent bigger issues later and make future treatment shorter and easier.
For many families, early care brings real peace of mind. You’ll know exactly where your child stands and what to expect next.
Why Age 7 Is the Right Time for a First Visit
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child see an orthodontist by around age seven. By this age, your child has enough adult teeth in place for Dr. Catherine to spot developing concerns.
Even if your child shows no obvious signs of needing braces, an early visit is worth it. Many alignment and bite issues are easier to address while the jaw is still growing.
An early evaluation doesn’t mean treatment starts that day. In many cases, Dr. Catherine simply monitors your child’s growth and steps in at the ideal moment.
What Early Evaluation Can Do
- Spot and correct developing problems before they become serious
- Create more space for crowded teeth
- Lower the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
- Help correct harmful habits like thumb sucking
- Support your child’s appearance and self-esteem
Signs Your Child May Need to See an Orthodontist
Every child grows differently, but a few signs are worth a closer look. If you notice any of these, it may be time to schedule an evaluation.
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Trouble biting or chewing food
- Frequent mouth breathing
- Ongoing finger or thumb sucking
- Crowded, crooked, or misplaced teeth
- Teeth that stick out or don’t meet properly
- Jaws and teeth that look out of proportion with the face
- Crowded front teeth by age seven or eight
Not sure if what you’re seeing is normal? That’s exactly what a free consultation is for. We’ll take a look and give you honest, plain-language guidance.
Personalized Care From a Trusted Orthodontist
When you choose A Winning Smile Orthodontics, you choose a private practice that treats your child like a person, not a chart number.
Dr. Catherine brings over 30 years of experience to every young smile she helps shape. She personally guides your family through the entire process, so you always know exactly who is caring for your child.
We proudly serve families in Worthington, Columbus, Dublin, Lewis Center, and Westerville, OH. Our promise is simple: clear communication, honest guidance, and a friendly experience your child will feel comfortable with.
Why Families Choose A Winning Smile Orthodontics
- The same trusted orthodontist throughout your child’s care
- A private practice focused on one-on-one, personalized attention
- 30+ years of experience serving the greater Columbus area
- Honest, plain-language guidance for parents
- A free consultation to help you start with confidence
What to Expect at Your Child's First Visit
Your child’s first visit is relaxed and welcoming. We’ll take time to get to know them, answer your questions, and help everyone feel at ease.
Dr. Catherine will gently examine your child’s teeth, jaw, and bite, then explain what she sees in simple terms. If treatment isn’t needed yet, she’ll let you know what to watch for.
If early treatment makes sense, she’ll walk you through the options and build a plan around your child’s needs. You’ll never feel rushed or pushed into anything.
Helping Your Child Build Lifelong Smile Habits
An early visit does more than catch problems. It helps your child get comfortable with routine dental care and build healthy habits that last.
Children who start early often feel less anxious about future visits. They learn how to care for their teeth and see the orthodontist as a friendly part of growing up.
That comfort pays off later, whether your child eventually needs metal braces, discreet ceramic braces, or removable clear aligners as a teen.
Schedule Your Child's Free Consultation Today
A healthy, confident smile starts with a single step. If your child is around age seven or you’ve noticed any signs above, now is the perfect time for an evaluation.
Dr. Catherine and our friendly team are ready to provide the personalized, expert care your family deserves.
Ready to learn more about early orthodontic treatment in Worthington, OH? Let’s talk.
Frequently Asked Questions About Early Orthodontic Treatment
At what age should my child first see an orthodontist?
A: Delaying may make some conditions harder to treat and could require more invasive procedures later. Early evaluation lets us create a plan for the healthiest smile possible!
Does early treatment mean my child will get braces right away?
Not necessarily. In many cases, Dr. Catherine simply monitors your child’s growth and recommends treatment only when the timing is right. When early care is needed, it’s often a simple step that helps prevent bigger issues later.
What are the benefits of starting treatment early?
Early treatment can create space for crowded teeth, guide jaw growth, reduce the risk of injury to protruding teeth, and help correct habits like thumb sucking. It can also make future treatment shorter and easier.
Is the first visit really free?
Yes. We offer a free consultation so you can get honest answers without any pressure. Dr. Catherine will evaluate your child’s smile and explain exactly what, if anything, needs to happen next.
How do I schedule an appointment for my child?
Getting started is easy. Simply contact our Worthington office or call (614) 888-8070 to book your child’s free consultation. We’d love to help your family take the first step toward a winning smile.