Why Early Intervention Matters
Early dental and orthodontic intervention is about more than straight teeth – it’s about guiding proper growth. Addressing issues early can prevent larger problems down the road. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends evaluating airway health and jaw development at all stages of growth.
Key benefits of early intervention:
- Guides Jaw Growth: Encourages proper width of the upper and lower jaw and bite alignment, often avoiding extractions later.
- Supports Airway Health: Promotes nasal breathing, reducing the risks of snoring or pediatric sleep apnea.
- Improves Facial Symmetry: Encourages balanced facial bone development.
- Simplifies Future Treatment: Shortens or eliminates the need for braces in the teen years.
- Boosts Confidence Early: A healthy smile and comfortable breathing improve overall well-being.
By age 4, an orthodontic evaluation is recommended.
What We Evaluate in Your Child’s Development
At Van Hemert Family Dentistry, we look beyond teeth. Our airway-focused evaluation includes:
- Breathing Patterns: Nose vs. mouth breathing
- Jaw Development & Palate Width: High/narrow palate, retruded lower jaw
- Tongue Posture & Lip Seal: Proper tongue resting position, closed lips at rest
- Sleep Quality Indicators: Snoring, grinding, enlarged tonsils/adenoids
- Facial Symmetry & Posture: Head/neck posture and facial balance
- Dental Crowding & Bite Alignment: Early crowding, bite concerns
- Oral Habits: Thumb-sucking, pacifier use, tongue thrusting
Our holistic approach identifies issues before they become complex orthodontic or health concerns.
Signs Parents Can Watch For
You know your child best. Look for:
- Mouth Breathing
- Snoring or Noisy Breathing
- Crowded or Crooked Teeth Early On
- Dark Circles Under the Eyes
- Restless Sleep or Bedwetting
- Daytime Sleepiness or Hyperactivity/ ADHD
- Behavioral or Developmental Concerns
- Open Bite or Long Face Appearance
Trust your instincts. If something feels “off,” we’re here to listen and help.
How We Can Help: Our Treatment Approach
We offer:
- Fixed Growth-Guidance Appliances
- Habit Correction & Myofunctional Therapy: Retrain oral muscle habits.
- Collaboration with other specialists: Whole-child care approach.
- Monitoring Growth: Regular check-ups to watch development and guide care.
We focus on airway health, facial growth, and long-term wellness—not just straight teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How early should my child come in for an evaluation?
By age 4 is ideal, or sooner if you notice concerns. We evaluate airway, jaw growth, and oral habits early to guide development.
My child is 10 (or older). Is it too late?
Not at all. While earlier is better, many treatments can still be effective in later childhood and even into the teens.
Will insurance cover these treatments?
Coverage varies. We’ll check your plan and offer payment plans. Early treatment may reduce future costs.
Why don’t all dentists offer this care?
Airway-focused and growth-guided care is an emerging area. Dr. Van has pursued advanced training to offer this whole-child approach.
Will teeth be pulled?
We prioritize expansion and growth guidance over extractions. Each case is carefully evaluated.
What if we don’t treat now?
Issues may become more complex later. Early guidance can simplify or prevent more invasive treatments down the road.
Next Steps: Orthodontic Consult & Records Appointment
Helping your child grow, breathe, and thrive—naturally.
Our root-cause approach supports:
- Healthy breathing and sleep
- Better facial development
- A more stable smile and bite
- Long-term whole-body wellness
What happens at the records appointment?
- Digital photos
- 3D CBCT or panoramic X-ray
- Impressions or digital scan
- Health history review
Insurance Info
We can submit a pre-authorization to review your plan’s coverage.
We’re Here for the Conversation
At Van Hemert Family Dentistry, there’s no pressure. We provide honest guidance and let you decide what feels right.
You know your child. We know growing faces. Let’s work together to create a smile that’s beautiful, functional, and healthy for life.
Van Hemert Family Dentistry
Caring for you and your smile.
Disclaimer: Not Medical Advice
The content provided by Van Hemert Family Dentistry (VHFD), including social media downloads, handouts, and other educational materials, is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical or dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, dentist, or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or dental condition. Never disregard professional advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read or received from VHFD. Use of this material does not establish a doctor-patient relationship. Individual needs and circumstances vary—please consult with our office or your healthcare provider to determine what is right for you.