Crowding or crossbite
Visible crowding when adult teeth start coming in, or a bite where the upper and lower teeth do not meet correctly.
Early Orthodontics
Early & Interceptive Orthodontics for Young Children
Phase 1 orthodontic treatment - between ages 6 and 10, while baby and adult teeth are still mixed - can guide jaw growth, prevent crowding, and shorten or simplify later treatment. Most kids do not need it. The ones who do really benefit.
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Signs Early Treatment May Help
If any of these are showing up around age 6 to 9, an early evaluation is worth the visit. The Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic evaluation no later than age 7.
Thumb sucking or pacifier past age 4
Habits that change the way the jaw grows - we can intercept the effect before it becomes structural.
Mouth breathing or snoring
Airway-related issues that show up in jaw and palate development.
Early or late tooth loss
Baby teeth that fall out unusually early or stay much longer than they should.
Jaw shifts when biting
A jaw that slides sideways into bite, which often signals a crossbite that should be corrected early.
Family history of complex ortho
If a parent or sibling needed extractions, surgery, or long treatment, early evaluation can sometimes head it off.
What Phase 1 Treatment Looks Like
Targeted appliances
Palatal expanders, partial braces, or growth-modification appliances - chosen for the specific issue, not a one-size kit.
6 to 12 months
Phase 1 is usually 6 to 12 months long - much shorter than full braces, with the goal of guiding growth, not finishing alignment.
Phase 2 (if needed)
After phase 1, many kids enter a watch-and-wait period until the rest of the adult teeth come in. Phase 2 (full braces or Invisalign) may follow - or may not be needed.
Early Orthodontics FAQs
What age should my child first see an orthodontist?
The Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends a first evaluation by age 7. Most kids will not need treatment that early; some will benefit from early intervention.
Does my child have to start treatment if we come in early?
No. The early evaluation is exactly that - an evaluation. If treatment is not needed yet, growth is monitored at periodic check-ins.
How long does phase 1 early orthodontic treatment last?
Typically 6 to 12 months, guiding growth and intercepting a specific issue rather than full alignment.
Will my child still need braces later after phase 1?
Often yes, but for less time and a simpler case. Sometimes no - phase 1 done well prevents the need for phase 2 entirely.
How much does early orthodontic treatment cost?
Less than full braces - typically a smaller, time-bounded fee. Estimate provided at the free consultation, with financing available.
Is the first orthodontic evaluation really free?
Yes. There is no charge for the first orthodontic evaluation at Rivers Edge.
Why Rivers Edge
What makes Rivers Edge different
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A dual-trained specialist
Pediatric dentistry and orthodontics in one doctor - a rare combination in Alberta.
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In-clinic anesthesia
Complex cases handled in our clinic, with no multi-month hospital wait list.
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Calm, kid-first care
Gentle, child-paced visits with sedation options for anxious and special-needs kids.
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Two Alberta locations
Convenient care in both Fort Saskatchewan and Fort McMurray.
Meet Your Specialist
Dr. Darren Isfeld, DDS
Dual-trained specialist - pediatric dentistry & orthodontics
A rare combination in Alberta. One specialist for your child's whole growing smile - so you're not handed off between practices as they age. Certified in both pediatric dentistry and orthodontics, Dr. Isfeld treats every child himself.
Book Your Appointment
We're Looking Forward To Seeing Your Smile
Two locations in Fort Saskatchewan and Fort McMurray. Whether it's your child's first visit or a follow-up, fill out the form and we'll call you back to book.
- No referral required. Book directly.
- Direct billing. Most insurance plans.
- CDCP accepted. Canadian Dental Care Plan.
- Flexible financing. Payment plans available.
Request a Callback
Tell us what you need and we'll call you back to book a time that works.