(920) 667-0038 [email protected] 2805 Libal Street Suite B, Green Bay, WI 54301
Book Appointment

Early orthodontic in Green Bay

— catching bite and jaw problems while they’re still simple to address

Orthodontic problems that are complex to correct at 14 are often simple to guide at 8. At Green Bay Smiles Dental, we screen for bite and jaw development at every pediatric exam — identifying the small number of children who benefit from early intervention while monitoring everyone else until the right time.

Orthodontic Screening Included at Every Pediatric Exam at No Extra Charge

Eight-Point Surveillance

What We Look For at Every Exam

Transparency section — parents want to understand what “watching the bite” actually means. Eight specific screening points, explained simply:

Crowding

Are there enough physical space parameters for all permanent teeth developing below? Early crowding can indicate jaw size mismatches that benefit from palate expansion before adult teeth erupt.

Crossbite

When upper teeth bite inside lower teeth — causes jaw shifting and asymmetric growth. Corrects much more predictably and easily during active childhood jaw growth windows.

Underbite

Lower jaw protrudes forward beyond the upper arch. Specialized jaw guidance appliances during growth can reduce or entirely eliminate the requirement for surgical correction later.

Protruding front teeth

Upper front teeth that protrude significantly outward, increasing dental trauma injury risks. They benefit significantly from early orthopedic repositioning.

Eruption pattern

Are permanent teeth erupting in the correct sequences and positions? Blocked, ectopic, or deep impacted teeth are identified early when interceptive intervention is simpler.

Oral habits

Chronic thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, and open mouth breathing affect jaw and tooth development patterns. Early identification allows habit correction before bone damage forms.

Jaw symmetry

Facial symmetry and jaw midline alignment are assessed at every exam — minor growth skeletal asymmetries that develop are much more manageable when caught early.

Open bite

When front teeth don't meet during a full posterior bite — often related to soft tissue habits like thumb sucking. Early habit intervention allows natural aesthetic self-correction.

Diagnostic Candidacy Rules

Determining Your Treatment Suitability

Problems that benefit from early treatment

Crossbites — significantly easier to correct during active bone development.

Skeletal underbites — jaw growth guidance only works during early childhood phases.

Severe crowding risks — palate expansion creates prerequisite room before teeth erupt.

Pronounced protrusions — early alignment reduces dental fracture risks from physical play.

Harmful active habits — intercepting thumb thrusts protects palate anatomy.

Root canal is likely needed when:

Mild dental crowding — no skeletal jaw mismatch present; waits for all adult teeth.

Generalized spacing — gaps usually self-correct naturally as permanent canines erupt.

Mild overbites — monitored continuously, addressed later in comprehensive Phase 2 blocks.

Minor rotations — managed far more efficiently once full permanent dentition is visible.

“The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic evaluation by age 7 — not because most children need treatment at that age, but because a small number of problems are significantly better addressed during the growth window. We identify those children early and monitor everyone else until Phase 2 timing is right.”

The Screening Sequence

A Quick, Five-Minute Monitoring Process

01

Clinical exam

We assess bite relationship, jaw symmetry, tooth eruption sequences, dental crowding metrics, and oral habits. Takes roughly 5 minutes inside your child's regular cleaning appointment.


02

X-ray review

Low-dose panoramic radiographs (captured at specific intervals) track hidden adult tooth positions, root structures, and impaction parameters before teeth emerge.


03

Assessment summary

Yields one of three clear outcomes: (1) no developmental concerns, (2) continue observational monitoring at 6-month checks, or (3) refer out for an early orthopedic consult.


04

Parent debrief

We outline our diagnostic findings transparently with you. If a referral is indicated, we detail exactly why early intervention is beneficial and what it will accomplish.


Orthodontic screening built into every pediatric visit — so nothing develops unnoticed between appointments

Included at every exam

Orthodontic diagnostic screening is a standard component of our 6-month cleaning blocks. It is not an add-on or an extra fee — we observe growth continuously, not occasionally.

Conservative screening philosophy

We only advocate for Phase 1 appliance referrals when early intervention delivers a clear, highly documented clinical advantage. We never push early braces if monitoring is safe.

Coordinated developmental care

If an early orthodontic consult is required, we securely share our diagnostic files, radiographs, and long-term history notes directly with the specialist to secure integrated care.

Real Patient Feedback

Google reviews

Trusted by local families

4.9 ★★★★★ Google
Randy Van Goethem
Randy Van Goethem4 months ago
★★★★★

Jena is awesome. Best of luck with your new born!

Monica Golomski
Monica Golomski2 months ago
★★★★★

Great team work – all levels. Office, dental associates and of course, Dr. Casey. A…

Geneva Macco
Geneva Macco4 months ago
★★★★★

Had a very friendly visit every time I go in to have any dental work…

Michael Messer
Michael Messer4 months ago
★★★★★

I had a great experience. Everyone is so friendly and Casey did great with all…

JANETTE DREWS
JANETTE DREWS3 months ago
★★★★★

Dr Messer is excellent.

Rob Themeister
Rob Themeister5 months ago
★★★★★

I've recently had major restorative dental work completed at GB Smiles, and can't speak highly…

susan casper
susan casper6 months ago
★★★★

An hour after I got home I developed a toothache which still persists tonight. Did…

Leda
Leda3 months ago
★★★★★

Thank you so much for the outstanding care and professionalism. I truly appreciate how detailed…

Brian D
Brian D5 months ago
★★★★★

Green Bay Smiles is a great place for dental work. Dr Messer is a credit…

Steve Seyler
Steve Seyler4 months ago
★★★★★

Always a great place to visit. Staff is always friendly and helpful.

Laurie Caebe
Laurie Caebe5 months ago
★★★★★

Finding a provider that could work with my insurance was challenging, but luckily my search…

Paula Colling
Paula Colling1 month ago
★★★★★

Is it possible to say that you look forward to the dentist?? YES. Love Green…

Jessica Hamer
Jessica Hamer4 months ago
★★★★★

I needed a lot of dental work and chose Green Bay Smiles as they had…

Joann Wanek
Joann Wanek3 months ago
★★★★★

Very thorough, and friendly, but they listened to what I wanted after I explained what…

Paula Culligan
Paula Culligan6 months ago
★★★★★

Took me on time. Good results. No pain. This place is great! I always feel…

Patti Van Eyck
Patti Van Eyck4 months ago
★★★★★

The employee was very nice. She listened to what I was saying was wrong.

Melony Killian
Melony Killian4 months ago
★★★★★

Excellent service and friendly staff

Sue L
Sue L6 months ago
★★★★★

I took my 95 year old mom to the dentist. First visit in 7 years….

Payton Weires
Payton Weires3 months ago
★★★★★

Great experience awesome people. Have been coming here for almost 10 years now and I…

Rebeca Mejia
Rebeca Mejia5 months ago
★★★★★

(Translated by Google) An excellent place, everyone is friendly and very attentive. I especially felt…

John Mandl
John Mandl4 months ago
★★★★★

Excellent service, everyone was friendly and the dentist knew her profession. I’am happy to be…

Bonnie VanDeHey
Bonnie VanDeHey3 months ago
★★★★★

Love this dental office! I've been going for a few years now and the staff…

Brandon Schwarz
Brandon Schwarz5 months ago
★★★★★

Dr. Messer and staff are always friendly, professional and knowledgeable at Green Bay Smiles. They…

Steve Endter
Steve Endter6 months ago
★★★★★

The assistant was very nice, 5 star!

Samantha Tamayo
Samantha Tamayo5 months ago
★★★★★

Dr. Casey and her team are truly the best!

Lisa Dillhunt
Lisa Dillhunt5 months ago
★★★★★

Really kind people who do their best to make each experience a good one.

Patricia Love
Patricia Love5 months ago
★★★★★

I mistakenly went on the wrong day and Green Bay Smiles graciously worked me in….

Peter Anderson
Peter Anderson3 months ago
★★★★★

It was very pleasant and they got me in 5 minutes ahead of my scheduled…

Mary Reiter
Mary Reiter4 months ago
★★★★★

Very friendly people. They make it easy and explain everything very clearly. Will be back.

Jan Charles
Jan Charles1 month ago
★★★★★

You were ALL very professional, kind, knowledgeable, etc, etc. I appreciate entrusting my smile to…

Jill Baeten
Jill Baeten5 months ago
★★★★★

Love Dr. Messer! She's speedy, fun, kind and does quality work. Will never go anywhere…

LYNN MOORE
LYNN MOORE3 months ago
★★★★★

I’m so happy with Dr Messer in her care and friendliness. She knows what she…

Kathleen Warren
Kathleen Warren6 months ago
★★★★★

Very professional and friendly

Pam Supa
Pam Supa4 months ago
★★★★★

Everyone in the office was very nice and made me feel at ease. It is…

Wayne Richardson
Wayne Richardson5 months ago
★★★★★

I always have a good experience with the people there . They are professional and…

Craig Satori
Craig Satori3 months ago
★★★★★

On time, down to business, good care and conversation with my hygienist!

Jesse Greene
Jesse Greene6 months ago
★★★★★

Dr. Messer exemplifies what outstanding dental care should be. The approach is thoughtful, precise, and…

Steve Perry
Steve Perry5 months ago
★★★★★

Great getting me in waiting list All is good. Great staff Friendly 👍🏻

David Tellock
David Tellock4 months ago
★★★★★

I was in for a 6 month routine checkup and cleaning. As always, Dr Messer…

Evan Miller
Evan Miller4 months ago
★★★★★

Efficient and friendly service

Roxanne Cole
Roxanne Cole5 months ago
★★★★★

This was a great office visit. I got more information in the first 15 minutes…

Mariss Cook
Mariss Cook4 months ago
★★★★★

All staff at Green Bay Smiles in Green Bay were very friendly & personable. I…

Tim Ahtonen
Tim Ahtonen3 months ago
★★★★★

At Green Bay Smiles, the dentist and staff provided a friendly and professional experience, putting…

Kevin O'Connor
Kevin O'Connor5 months ago
★★★★★

Everything was on time and handled very professionally.

Brenda Beyer
Brenda Beyer6 months ago
★★★★★

Emily was very good at her job

Jeff Hall
Jeff Hall6 months ago
★★★★★

Dental care made easy. I actually enjoy going!

Brittany Schmidt
Brittany Schmidt4 months ago
★★★★★

Very welcoming staff. The hygienist was patient, kind, and explained everything that was occurring. The…

Bailey Hintz
Bailey Hintz4 months ago
★★★★★

I used to go to Green Bay Smiles, but after moving, I started seeing a…

Cathy Hedrick
Cathy Hedrick2 months ago
★★★★★

The team at Green Bay Smiles went above and beyond with their friendly, helpful, and…

Richard Reimer
Richard Reimer3 months ago
★★★★★

My appointment was on time and the people that worked on me were great and…

Linda Havlicek
Linda Havlicek5 months ago
★★★★★

My questions were answered in a patient and caring manner.

Robert Kadrlik
Robert Kadrlik6 months ago
★★★★★

Outstanding job, very happy with his work.

Norma Olivier
Norma Olivier3 months ago
★★★★★

I trust Dr. Messer. Dr. Messer, and the Green Bay Smiles staff are totally awesome!…

Pat Vanden Bergh
Pat Vanden Bergh4 months ago
★★★★★

Very efficient and courteous

Laura Alar
Laura Alar1 month ago
★★★★★

Green Bay Smiles is timely, thorough and always has a relaxing environment.

Katherine Smits
Katherine Smits4 months ago
★★★★★

I arrived for my appointment in a state of very high anxiety. I was given…

Carolyn Maritato
Carolyn Maritato2 months ago
★★★★★

The GBS clinic was prompt in confirming appointments and the staff was extremely courteous ….

Meredith Obry
Meredith Obry1 month ago
★★★★★

The staff at Green Bay Smiles demonstrated exceptional professionalism, providing a consistently polite and courteous…

Sarah Miller
Sarah Miller3 months ago
★★★★★

The dentist and staff at Green Bay Smiles were professional, friendly, and gentle, making me…

Jack Vial
Jack Vial5 months ago
★★★★

Counter staff are friendly and informative. Hygienist was gentle, informative and had a great bedside…

kevin petasek
kevin petasek2 months ago
★★★★★

Dental staff was exceptionally friendly and helpful!

Mike
Mike2 months ago
★★★★★

Very understanding and informative to my own situation.

Janet Wickman
Janet Wickman6 months ago
★★★★★

Awesome dental office with friendly staff who really care about your concerns. They fit me…

Holly Wegner
Holly Wegner3 months ago
★★★★★

Had a wonderful first time there. Felt very welcomed and my concerns were addressed very…

Kelly Nelson
Kelly Nelson4 months ago
★★★★★

Dr. Messer & her dental care team are very knowledgeable and have taken excellent care…

Alan Holewinski
Alan Holewinski6 months ago
★★★★★

Relaxing and friendly atmosphere. Don’t mind stopping there at all!

Tim Sass
Tim Sass2 months ago
★★★★★

The friendly staff at Green Bay Smiles were a delight to work with, providing a…

S Bjar
S Bjar6 months ago
★★★★★

Great dentist great staff great hygenist! Friendly personable helpful!

Barb Wickham
Barb Wickham3 months ago
★★★★★

They are amazing! All the staff are super efficient and very professional! I would highly…

julio
julio5 months ago
★★★★★

Very happy, everyone very nice and helpful, answered all my questions, and explained procedures and…

Karen Geiger
Karen Geiger4 months ago
★★★★★

Great dental office. Staff is professional, kind and efficient.

Maureen Steiner
Maureen Steiner5 months ago
★★★★★

Always a great experience! Fantastic teeth cleaning – very thorough, detailed, and considerate! Highly recommended.

Kathleen E
Kathleen E4 months ago
★★★★★

My Dental Hygenist was so friendly, professional, knowledgeable, positive, and caring. She shared information relating…

Rita Schroeder
Rita Schroeder5 months ago
★★★★★

Professional, friendly and very detailed from when you enter the office till you leave. Dr…

Thijs Dewey
Thijs Dewey3 months ago
★★★★★

Great atmosphere and customer service all the staff was very friendly and helpful

Michael Sule
Michael Sule4 months ago
★★★★★

Courteous, explains thoroughly and timely.

Edwin Miller
Edwin Miller6 months ago
★★★★★

Great place to get your teeth fixed/cleaned.

Bonnie Plouff
Bonnie Plouff4 months ago
★★★★★

My first experience with Green Bay Smiles. I felt very comfortable with Dr. Messer, the…

Emily Boneff
Emily Boneff5 months ago
★★★★★

Always a pleasure with great staff and dentist!

Nic Wessely
Nic Wessely1 month ago
★★★★★

The staff at Green Bay Smiles was incredibly professional, friendly, and gentle in their approach,…

Frequently Asked Screening Questions
We initiate observational bite screenings at every 6-month checkup from the moment your child's first permanent molars erupt. The American Association of Orthodontists officially recommends a dedicated screening evaluation by age 7 to track emerging jaw structure relationships safely.
 
Most standard filling and crown procedures require local anesthesia to secure absolute comfort. We always apply a sweet topical numbing gel beforehand so the numbing injection is barely felt. For minor surface stains or very young children, non-invasive Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) can treat the cavity with zero anesthesia required.
 
Our in-office screening serves an essential surveillance and monitoring function — it's a integrated piece of your regular dental checkup designed to flag abnormalities early. An orthodontist provides a specialized diagnostic assessment, captures comprehensive records, and designs active brace blueprints.
 
Not necessarily, and frequently not yet. A moderate degree of crowding and slight rotational variation is completely normal during the mixed dentition phase (ages 6 to 12) as the mouth grows. We evaluate whether the pattern is self-resolving or indicates a bone-size deficiency that warrants earlier interceptive care.

Related services

Early orthodontics & palate expanders

When screening flags an orthopedic jaw or bite challenge that benefits from active Phase 1 intervention while bone frameworks are actively growing.

Children's dental exams

Comprehensive pediatric dental cleanings and wellness checkups, providing the ideal framework for regular developmental tracking.

Invisalign

Clear aligner orthodontic treatment pathways designed for adolescents, teenagers, and adults once full permanent dentition is established.

Open for Appointments

Schedule your visit with our friendly dental team today.