Early orthodontic treatment in Mount Laurel, NJ — also called Phase I treatment — is orthodontic care for kids whose jaws are still growing, usually starting around age 7. It’s not about starting braces early for no reason. It’s about catching bite, crowding, or jaw growth issues while there’s still room to guide things in the right direction, which can mean a simpler, shorter path later on.
As Dr. Ellis and the American Association of Orthodontists both recommend, we encourage parents to bring their child in for a first orthodontic visit by age 7. At that age, kids typically have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, which gives our team a clear picture of how their bite and jaw are developing — even if no treatment is needed yet.
Most kids who come in at age 7 don’t start treatment right away. Many are simply monitored with a free follow-up visit every so often until the timing is right. If your child does need early treatment, Dr. Ellis or Dr. Lekht will walk you through exactly why, and what the plan looks like.
Why an Early Braces Evaluation in Mount Laurel Matters
Improves Oral Health
Straighter, better-spaced teeth are easier to brush and floss well, which helps prevent decay and gum disease down the road.
Reduces Overall Cost
Catching a developing bite or jaw issue early can mean a simpler treatment path later, rather than a more involved correction (or extractions) after growth is finished.
Boosts Confidence
Kids notice their smiles. Addressing crowding, spacing, or a noticeable bite issue early can make a real difference in how a child feels about theirs.
Signs Your Child May Be Ready for Phase 1 Orthodontics
- Difficulty chewing or speech that seems affected by their teeth
- Mouth breathing
- Thumb-sucking or pacifier use that continues past age 4
- Teeth that look crowded, gapped, or misaligned
- Baby teeth lost noticeably early or late
If you notice any of these, an early orthodontic treatment evaluation with our team is worth scheduling — even before age 7.
Patients Rave About Us
“This was the best experience. My son is 8 and we were just going for a consult. I was concerned that the doctor would want to push braces at such a young age. Dr. Ellis was wonderful. Not only did he not push anything, he sat and talked with my son. He made him feel comfortable. He made him laugh. It was a great first experience. We will definitely be going back to Dr. Ellis.”
— Rachael F. —
“I absolutely loved Dr. Ellis. This was our 2nd consultation and he made us feel completely comfortable immediately. He joked around with the kids and he helped my daughter feel comfortable before he checked her mouth. He told us she isn't ready for anything yet and to come back in a year. He was honest and that is why we will go back to him when she is ready.”
— Heather L. —
“First visit there with my daughter for an evaluation for braces. The whole office was great. As soon as we walked in she was greeted by a friendly staff and taught how to sign in. Then met the doc and he was wonderful so friendly and outgoing and when he asked if we had any questions she actually asked one. That never happens with any other doctors. Highly recommend this office.”
— Lori K. —
Early Orthodontic Treatment FAQs
What is Phase I / early orthodontic treatment?
It’s orthodontic evaluation and, when needed, treatment for kids around age 7 and up whose jaws and bite are still developing, aimed at guiding growth and catching issues early.
Why age 7 specifically?
By around age 7, kids have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, which gives an orthodontist enough information to spot emerging bite or jaw problems — even if treatment doesn’t start until later.
Does my child need braces if we come in at age 7?
Usually not right away. Most kids are simply monitored at no cost until the right time for treatment, if any is needed at all.
Is the first orthodontic visit free?
Yes — Ellis Orthodontics offers a free orthodontic consultation for your child’s first visit, with no obligation to start treatment.
What’s the difference between Phase I and Phase II treatment?
Phase I (early treatment) focuses on guiding jaw growth and correcting developing issues in younger kids. Phase II, usually in the early teen years, focuses on aligning all the permanent teeth once they’ve come in.
My child sucks their thumb — is that a problem?
It can become one if it continues past around age 4, since it may affect how the teeth and jaw develop. It’s a good reason to schedule an early braces evaluation.
We’re looking for an orthodontist for young kids near us — do you only treat teens and adults?
Not at all. Ellis Orthodontics treats patients of every age, from young kids through adults, right here in Mount Laurel.
Orthodontist for Young Kids Near Me: Serving South Jersey
The AAO recommends a child’s first orthodontic visit (age 7 at the latest) so an orthodontist can check how the bite is developing. Families bring their kids to our Mount Laurel office from these nearby towns:
Marlton, NJ
Marlton parents can book an early evaluation with our orthodontist Marlton NJ team.
Moorestown, NJ
Moorestown families are a short drive away. Visit our orthodontist Moorestown NJ page.
Medford, NJ
Medford families can learn more on our orthodontist Medford NJ page.
Cherry Hill, NJ
Cherry Hill families can find details on our orthodontist Cherry Hill NJ page.
Not sure if your child needs early treatment?
A free orthodontic consultation will give you a clear answer — no pressure, no obligation.