Pre-Orthodontic Guidance Program
Early guidance for growing smiles
At Johnsonlink Orthodontics, we are proud to offer our Pre-Orthodontic Guidance Program, a complimentary observation program designed to monitor your child’s dental growth and development over time.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven, though some children may benefit from being seen even earlier. This program allows us to carefully track growth patterns and, if needed, recommend treatment at the most appropriate time with thoughtful planning and care.
Our goal is simple: to guide your child’s smile as it develops in a way that feels comfortable, informed, and completely stress-free for families.
This entire observation program is complimentary during the monitoring phase.
How the program works
Periodic Growth Visits
Your child will be seen at regular intervals so we can monitor dental and jaw development and identify any changes over time.
Underbite
Digital Imaging
When needed, digital X-rays or images may be taken to help us closely monitor development with accuracy and care.
Team-based support
Spacing
Guiding growing smiles, at no cost to you
Professional Guidance
If treatment is ever recommended, Dr. Johnson or Dr. Lingenbrink will walk you through everything in advance so you feel informed, prepared, & confident in next steps.
What we monitor as your child grows
Overjet
The lower jaw extends forward, causing the lower front teeth to overlap the upper front teeth.
Openbite
The upper front teeth stick out too far, or when the lower teeth don’t extend forward enough to meet them.
Crowding
The upper front teeth cover too much of the lower front teeth. In some cases, this overlap is so deep that the lower teeth may bite into the roof of the mouth.
Thumb sucking
Excess space between teeth, which may be caused by missing teeth or cosmetic concerns.
Insufficient room for teeth to erupt, causing misalignment or rotations.
Crossbite
Benefits of Early Guidance
Peace of mind
Stay informed about your child’s dental development
Comfort with care
Help your child feel familiar and confident in orthodontic visits early on
Spacing
Top and bottom teeth do not come together, often due to habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting.
Upper teeth fit inside the lower teeth, which may affect single or multiple teeth.
Early detection
Identify potential concerns before they become more complex
Simpler future treatment
Early monitoring may help reduce treatment time or complexity later on
Better timing
Ensure orthodontic treatment happens at the ideal stage of growth
Work closely with our doctors and team throughout every stage
Prolonged thumb sucking can damage teeth & jaw alignment once permanent teeth begin to erupt.
Tongue Thrusting
Misplaced pressure from the tongue can shift teeth & affect jaw growth.