Clinical protocols in Washington and Waukesha Counties have established age seven as the definitive window for a child’s first orthodontic evaluation to identify skeletal imbalances while the jaw is still growing. This proactive standard, recommended by the American Association of Orthodontists, allows our team of specialists to implement Phase One Interceptive Orthodontics when necessary. For families in West Bend and Hartland, this early assessment is a critical safety-first measure to prevent the need for invasive jaw surgery or permanent tooth extractions during the teenage years.

At our Continental Drive clinical suite, our four-doctor team uses 3D Digital Intraoral Scanning to map a child’s dental development with micron-level accuracy. Dr. Charley Hewett and Dr. Dan Holzhauer, both graduates of the prestigious Marquette University Orthodontic Residency, use this data to evaluate the relationship between the upper and lower jaws. By intervening during this mixed dentition stage—when both baby and permanent teeth are present—we can guide facial bone growth to create a healthy airway and adequate space for adult teeth. This collaborative specialist perspective ensures that every child in our Wauwatosa, West Bend, and Hartland locations receives a foundation for a lifetime of bio-mechanical stability and confidence.

We were hesitant to take our daughter in so early, but Dr. Hewett identified a crossbite that was causing her jaw to shift to one side. Addressing it now with a simple appliance was so much easier than waiting for it to become a permanent bone issue.

Growth Guidance and Skeletal Development

In the 2026 landscape of pediatric health, we view the mouth as the gateway to systemic wellness. When a child’s dental arches are too narrow, it can lead to crowded teeth and even impact their ability to breathe deeply during sleep. Our Phase One protocols focus on growth guidance, using specialized appliances to widen the palate or move the jaw into its ideal position. For our patients in Lake Country, this early intervention often results in a more balanced facial profile and a significantly shorter and more predictable Phase Two treatment with braces or Invisalign later on. By addressing these structural issues early, we protect the long-term integrity of the jaw joint and the surrounding gum tissues.

Common Questions About Early Orthodontic Intervention

Does an early exam mean my child will definitely get braces at age seven? No, only about 20% of the children we evaluate at age 7 require immediate treatment; the rest are placed in our Observation Club to monitor their growth.

This monitoring allows us to wait for the ideal biological window to start treatment, ensuring the process is as efficient as possible. Families in West Bend appreciate this transparent approach, as it builds trust before any financial or clinical commitment is made. We treat every child like a member of our own family, prioritizing their health and comfort above all else.

What are the signs that my child might need interceptive care? Common indicators include early or late loss of baby teeth, difficulty chewing, mouth breathing, or teeth that do not meet properly when the mouth is closed.

If you notice your child has a significant overbite or an underbite where the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth, a specialist evaluation is highly recommended. Our team at the Continental Drive office uses 3D Digital Intraoral Scanning to show parents exactly what is happening beneath the gum line. Catching these silent developmental shifts early is the key to a simpler orthodontic journey.

Why should I choose a specialist over a general dentist for an early exam? An orthodontic specialist has completed three additional years of hospital-based training in a Marquette University Orthodontic Residency or a similar accredited program, focusing exclusively on tooth movement and facial orthopedics.

This advanced training allows us to manage complex skeletal issues that go beyond simple tooth alignment. Our four-doctor collaborative model means your child benefits from the combined expertise of specialists who have spent their entire careers perfecting the art of the smile. Whether you visit us in Wauwatosa or Hartland, you can be certain your child’s care is backed by the highest tier of E-E-A-T in Wisconsin.

Schedule Your Seven-Year-Old’s Smile Scan in West Bend

Are you ready to give your child the advantage of a specialist-led early evaluation? Visit our Phase One Treatment Page or contact our Continental Drive clinical suite to schedule your digital 3D diagnostic session.

Serving the Wisconsin Region: West Bend | Hartland | Wauwatosa | Milwaukee County | 53095