What Age Should Children Visit the Orthodontist?
Along with the American Association of Orthodontists, we recommend that a child receive their first orthodontic screening by the age 7. By then, your child’s teeth and jaws have developed enough to where subtle problems can be spotted with jaw growth and emerging teeth. While orthodontic treatment most often begins between the ages of 9 and 14, some orthodontic problems are easier to correct if they are treated early.
What to Expect During An Orthodontic Evaluation
During your child’s initial evaluation we will first determine if there are any problems that need to be addressed, such as potential crowding, crossbites, open bite, overbite or gummy smiles. It is likely that immediate treatment is not necessary at the time, and your child will be placed on a recall. However, if treatment is indicated, we will create a personalized treatment plan for your child that will prove to be the most beneficial for his/her specific case.
What is Early Orthodontic Treatment for Children?
Early orthodontic treatment varies between patients but may include the following. To find out if your child is a candidate for early interceptive treatment, contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation.
- Correct crowded, erupting teeth with removable or fixed appliances
- Preserve space for unerupted teeth
- Create facial symmetry through manipulating jaw growth
- Reduce the possibility of tooth extraction
- Reduce overall treatment time in braces
