McCullum Orthodontics - Opening Early December 2025!
State-of-the-art orthodontic care is coming to Jeffersonville. Now scheduling appointments!
Early orthodontic treatment typically begins while children still have some primary (baby) teeth, usually between the ages of 6 and 10. This proactive approach allows us to:
Unlike comprehensive orthodontics (Phase II), which typically occurs between the ages of 10 and 14, when all permanent teeth have erupted and all baby teeth have been lost, Phase I treatment focuses on developing proper jaw relationships and addressing specific problems early. This strategic approach can make future treatment simpler, shorter, and sometimes even unnecessary.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children receive their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This timing allows us to detect subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth while still having the opportunity to intervene effectively. Dr. McCullum likes to see kids every 6 months for a free check-up from age 7 until all permanent teeth are present. This allows her to monitor tooth eruption and advise you on any problems that may develop, before they become severe.
This gentle appliance widens the upper jaw, improving nasal breathing, creating space for crowded teeth, correcting crossbites, and enhancing facial symmetry. Ideal for children ages 6–10, it’s comfortable and easy to use.
Special appliances help children stop thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or other harmful habits, guiding proper oral development and preventing permanent dental issues.
Space maintainers preserve gaps after early loss of baby teeth, reducing the need for extractions. Targeted braces or clear aligners address specific issues while leaving comprehensive treatment for later if needed.
Several indicators suggest a child might benefit from early orthodontic treatment:
If you notice any of these signs, scheduling an orthodontic evaluation can help determine if early orthodontic treatment would be beneficial. Dr. McCullum’s gentle approach and kid-friendly office create a comfortable environment for young patients, making their first orthodontic experience positive and stress-free.
We commonly collaborate with other healthcare professionals to offer specialized care for complex dental cases and are committed to providing the best for your patients.
Airway-focused orthodontics, practiced by Dr. McCullum, recognizes the critical connection between dental and jaw development and overall airway health. Restricted airways due to narrow palates, retruded jaws, or other structural issues can lead to habitual mouth breathing, sleep-disordered breathing or sleep apnea, altered facial growth patterns, postural problems, behavioral challenges, and decreased academic performance. Early orthodontic treatment, such as palatal expansion, widens the upper jaw to create space for both teeth and breathing, supporting proper facial development, cognitive function, and overall health. Dr. McCullum evaluates breathing patterns, tongue positioning, and other functional aspects to ensure a holistic approach that addresses more than just tooth alignment.
Early intervention begins with a comprehensive, child-friendly assessment that evaluates jaw growth, airway function, oral habits, speech, facial symmetry, eruption of permanent teeth, and overall oral health. Based on this thorough evaluation, Dr. McCullum creates a personalized treatment plan, explaining the nature of identified problems, proposed approaches, expected timeline, and outcomes. Families are encouraged to ask questions and participate in decision-making. Care is designed to be comfortable and engaging for children, with age-appropriate explanations, gentle techniques, milestone celebrations, and a child-friendly office environment, including accommodations for children with special needs..
Successful Phase I treatment creates an environment for proper eruption of permanent teeth, improves jaw relationships, reduces risk of damage to protruding teeth, corrects harmful oral habits, enhances airway function, improves facial appearance and symmetry, and often simplifies or reduces the need for future orthodontic treatment. Additionally, it boosts the child’s self-confidence and social comfort. Between Phase I and potential Phase II treatment, growth and development are carefully monitored. Not all children will need comprehensive treatment later, but those who do often require less extensive procedures than they would have without early intervention.
Dr. Heather McCullum combines professional expertise with personal understanding, providing airway-focused, child-centered care. She continues to monitor all patients’ growth and development, free of charge, until permanent teeth are fully erupted, even if early treatment is not needed. The practice philosophy emphasizes partnership with families, education, and involvement in every step, which fosters greater treatment success and satisfaction. Dr. McCullum’s top academic background and ongoing pursuit of advanced orthodontic techniques ensure that children receive the most effective, comfortable, and comprehensive care available.
McCullum Orthodontics is conveniently located in Jeffersonville, Indiana, serving patients throughout southern Indiana and the greater Louisville area.
ABOUT
Dr. Heather McCullum brings advanced orthodontic care to Jeffersonville and southern Indiana. With over a decade of experience, she offers personalized, comprehensive orthodontic services, including braces, clear aligners, and early orthodontic treatment. At McCullum Orthodontics, your treatment is customized for your needs and lifestyle. Dr. McCullum combines cutting-edge technology with personalized, compassionate care to help patients of all ages achieve healthy, beautiful smiles in a welcoming environment.
Schedule your free consultation today and discover the difference personalized orthodontic care can make.
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