Guiding Young Smiles with Gentle Orthodontic Treatment

At Reichheld Ting Orthodontics,—proudly serving Acton, Billerica, Lowell, and Westford, MA—we believe in starting treatment at the right time, especially when early orthodontic issues begin to show. Early braces are a proactive solution for young children who need guidance with developing teeth and jaw alignment. By identifying and correcting problems early, we help reduce the complexity and duration of future orthodontic care.

If your child is between the ages of 7 and 10 and shows signs of crowding, misalignment, or bite issues, early braces may be a critical step toward lifelong oral health for families throughout Middlesex County and surrounding communities.

What Are Early Braces?

Early braces, also called Phase 1 braces, are placed on a limited number of teeth—usually the front top and/or bottom teeth—during a child's mixed dentition phase (when baby and adult teeth are present). These braces are not meant to complete full alignment, but rather to intercept developing problems and create the conditions for better outcomes later.

Early braces can be used to:

  • Correct front-to-back or side-to-side bite issues
  • Make space for incoming adult teeth
  • Align prominent or protruding front teeth
  • Prevent future damage to teeth or gums from malocclusion
  • Improve a child’s self-confidence during critical developmental years

While early braces are just one part of our two-phase treatment philosophy, they play a key role in setting the stage for successful full treatment later, if needed.

Signs Your Child May Benefit from Early Braces

Parents in Acton, Billerica, Lowell, and Westford should consider an early orthodontic evaluation if their child shows:

  • Noticeable crowding of front teeth
  • Early or late loss of baby teeth
  • Difficulty biting or chewing
  • Thumb-sucking habits beyond age 5
  • Teeth that stick out or appear misaligned
  • Jaw shifts when opening or closing the mouth
  • Speech difficulties related to tooth positioning

We offer free consultations to help determine if early braces are the right step for your child.

A Modern, Comfortable Experience

At Reichheld Ting Orthodontics, we make early treatment a positive experience for kids and parents alike. Every patient receives a custom plan supported by the latest technology and guided by an experienced team of specialists.

Here’s what families can expect:

  • Digital Impressions – No messy molds; just fast, accurate scans
  • Kid-Friendly Environment – Gentle care from a team that works with children daily
  • Flexible Appointments – Convenient scheduling across four local offices
  • Affordable Options – We offer financing plans to help make early care accessible

Our orthodontists—Dr. Jay Reichheld, Dr. Brian Ting, Dr. Steve Reichheld, and Dr. Tim Reichheld—have decades of combined experience in pediatric orthodontics and are known for their compassionate, knowledgeable care.

Why Early Treatment Matters

Early orthodontic intervention isn’t just about straightening teeth—it’s about influencing the development of the face, bite, and jaw during formative years. In many cases, beginning treatment early can shorten or even eliminate the need for full braces during adolescence.

By treating bite imbalances, spacing concerns, or jaw issues early, we help children avoid more invasive or costly procedures later on. That’s why we recommend an orthodontic screening by age 7, even if no visible problems are present.

Four Convenient Offices in Middlesex County

Wherever you are in the region, expert orthodontic care is nearby:

Acton, MA
Address: 77 Great Rd #207, Acton, MA 01720
Phone: (978) 440-2353

Lowell, MA
Address: 19 Wood St, Lowell, MA 01851
Phone: (978) 453-3872

Westford, MA
Address: 73 Littleton Rd, Westford, MA 01886
Phone: (978) 692-5799

Billerica, MA
Address: 305 Boston Rd, North Billerica, MA 01862
Phone: (978) 670-5900

Schedule a Complimentary Evaluation for Early Braces

If you’re noticing signs of orthodontic issues in your child—or you’ve been referred by a dentist for early treatment—Reichheld Ting Orthodontics is here to help. We make it easy to understand your options and start treatment when it matters most.

Schedule your free consultation today and take the first step toward a future of healthy, confident smiles.

FAQs About Early Braces

How long will my child wear early braces?
Typically between 6 and 12 months, depending on the issue being corrected. Afterward, we’ll monitor development until Phase 2 treatment is needed (if at all).

Do early braces hurt?
Children may feel slight discomfort as their teeth adjust, but it’s generally mild and brief. Most kids adapt quickly and continue normal activities.

Will my child still need braces later?
Possibly, but early braces can reduce the amount of time and complexity of future treatment.

Are early braces covered by insurance?
Many dental plans include partial coverage for orthodontic care. Our team will help you review your benefits and maximize coverage.

Ready to Take the First Step?

Early orthodontic treatment can make a lasting difference in your child’s oral health and confidence. If you think your child may benefit from early braces, or if you're unsure and want expert guidance, we're here to help.

Schedule a free consultation at Reichheld Ting Orthodontics today and get trusted advice from our experienced team in Acton, Billerica, Lowell, or Westford. Let’s give your child the strong, healthy smile they deserve—starting now.