Kids Orthodontics Hero

FREEMAN ORTHODONTICS

Kids Orthodontics in Fort Lauderdale

Early treatment for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Orthodontics in Fort Lauderdale isn’t just for teenagers or adults — it’s also beneficial for children! In fact, early intervention between ages 7 to 9 can make a significant difference in your child’s dental development, preventing potential problems down the road and ensuring that their teeth and jaw develop properly.

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Early Evaluation

EARLY EVALUATION

Why Early Orthodontic Evaluation is Important

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation around the age of 7. This doesn’t always mean that treatment is necessary at that time, but it allows Dr. Freeman to monitor your child’s growth and identify potential issues early.

Early detection of dental and skeletal problems can result in more effective treatment and potentially shorten the time needed for braces later on.

Benefits of Early Treatment

THE BENEFITS

Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment

Guiding Proper Jaw Development

Early treatment can guide the growth of the jaw and teeth, helping to correct bite problems like overbites, underbites, or crossbites before they become more severe.

Preventing Serious Dental Issues

Catching potential issues early allows us to address problems such as overcrowded teeth, crooked teeth, and bite misalignments before they worsen, often reducing the need for more invasive treatment later on.

Improving Facial Symmetry

Early orthodontics can improve facial appearance by correcting jaw alignment, leading to more balanced and harmonious facial features as the child grows.

Reducing the Need for Extractions

By expanding the dental arches early, we may be able to create enough space for permanent teeth to come in naturally, potentially avoiding the need to extract teeth later on.

Treatment Types

TREATMENT OPTIONS

Types of Early Orthodontic Treatment

Phase 1

Interceptive Treatment

This is often done between the ages of 7 and 9. Phase 1 treatment aims to address severe bite problems or overcrowding early on, which helps guide the proper eruption of permanent teeth. This may involve appliances such as expanders and partial braces.

Phase 2

Comprehensive Treatment

After most of the permanent teeth have come in, children may need Phase 2 treatment, which typically involves braces or clear aligners to straighten the permanent teeth and correct bite issues that could not be fully addressed in Phase 1.

Preventive

Space Maintainers

If a child loses a baby tooth prematurely, space maintainers may be used to hold the space open until the permanent tooth comes in. This prevents shifting and future crowding issues.

Post Treatment

Retainers

Retainers may be used after treatment to keep the teeth in their new positions and prevent relapse. Dr. Freeman will recommend the best retainer type for your child’s needs.

Our Approach

OUR APPROACH

How We Help Your Child Achieve a Healthy Smile

Dr. Freeman offers compassionate, personalized care for children. We take the time to explain the process and ensure that both you and your child feel comfortable and confident throughout their orthodontic journey.

As the only non-corporate, private orthodontic practice in Fort Lauderdale, your child will see Dr. Freeman directly at every visit — no associates, no rotating doctors.

Service Areas

SERVING SOUTH FLORIDA

Our Service Areas

While we’re proudly based in Fort Lauderdale, Freeman Orthodontics is happy to serve patients from communities across South Florida. Find your area below to learn more about how we can help.

Live in one of these areas? We’d love to help you smile!

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When to Start

WHEN TO START

When Should Your Child See an Orthodontist?

While not all children need early treatment, some may benefit from early orthodontic intervention, especially if there are concerns such as:

Severe crowding or spacing
Protruding or misaligned teeth
Difficulty biting or chewing
Frequent mouth breathing
Thumb sucking or tongue thrusting habits

If you notice any of these issues or if you simply want peace of mind about your child’s dental development, schedule an appointment with Dr. Freeman today!

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Meet Dr. Freeman

MEET

Dr. Chris Freeman

VOTED BEST ORTHODONTIST IN FORT LAUDERDALE

Dr. Chris Freeman, voted Best Orthodontist in Fort Lauderdale, is the longest serving orthodontist in the area. He graduated valedictorian from the University of Kentucky’s dental program and completed a three year residency in Orthodontics at the University of Michigan.

Dr. Freeman is a Board Certified Orthodontist, published author, and sought after speaker on orthodontic technology and children’s orthodontics. He is a member and past president of the Broward Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, and the American Association of Orthodontics.

His deep knowledge of both dentistry and orthodontics has helped many patients avoid surgery through personalized treatment plans that deliver stunning results. When you choose Freeman Orthodontics in Fort Lauderdale, you’re supported by a team led by a doctor with a legacy of innovation and exceptional care.

We can’t wait to Give You Something to Smile About!

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