Timing is everything, especially when it comes to your child’s smile. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that your child gets their first orthodontic checkup by age 7, or earlier if you think your child has an orthodontic problem.
But why so early?
Early treatment for overcrowding and other orthodontic issues is crucial, in that it prevents your child from developing more serious problems. It may also make any later treatment, such as tooth extractions or braces, unnecessary or less complicated.
This proactive approach can help your child’s teeth come in straight and healthy. Straight teeth are easier to clean, as bacteria and plaque can build up in the tight spaces created by misaligned teeth; the accumulation of bacteria and plaque can cause cavities and gum disease in young patients. Keeping teeth on the right path with children’s orthodontics before they become misaligned can help prevent these oral health issues before they start.
Postponing treatment until a child reaches their teens can allow minor problems to become major ones, as a child’s mouth changes as they grow. Many bones of the mouth fuse together as a child grows into a teenager, for example, and this can limit the amount of space teeth have to come in and lead to crowding. Treating crowding early with spacer-free solutions is much faster, easier, and less expensive than resorting to braces and other advanced treatments later on.
Not every child needs early orthodontic intervention, but almost every child can benefit from an early assessment.
During your child’s early orthodontic evaluation, your orthodontist will look at how well your child’s teeth fit together, the width of their palate, and whether there are any misalignments (malocclusions). The orthodontist may take digital images to see what’s happening inside your child’s mouth. They will also assess your child’s need for early interventions, such as braces for children.
Every child is different, of course, which makes early orthodontic treatment even more important. Your child’s orthodontist can make sure that your child’s teeth are coming in at the right time and in the correct way, and create a personalized treatment plan that ensures your child gets the best results possible.
Depending on the issue, early orthodontic treatment could include a fixed or removable appliance, which is a device that moves teeth, holds teeth in place, or changes the position of the child’s jaw. In many cases, fixed or removable appliances are not needed. Early treatment may include the removal of some primary (baby) teeth to help improve the way permanent teeth come through the gums.
Treatment timing is essential, so orthodontists will time these treatments with the patient’s growth and development to optimize the results.
If your child of any age is experiencing certain signs and symptoms, they may benefit from early orthodontic treatment. These signs and symptoms include:
Advanced dental technology helps orthodontists detect and treat orthodontic issues early, while they are most responsive to treatment. This technology includes:
This state-of-the-art treatment approach translates to better results, faster treatment timelines, and fewer visits. Many of these treatments are less expensive for younger patients. Many parents are surprised to learn that Invisalign cost is roughly equivalent to the cost of traditional braces.
For more information on early orthodontic treatment and why timing is crucial, connect with Starling Orthodontics during a complimentary consultation. We offer a comprehensive examination and digital 3D imaging, along with a full menu of orthodontic treatments. Call today or complete the appointment request form and we will be in touch to confirm your first visit.
Please call (615) 507-1660 or click below to schedule your complimentary orthodontic consultation online.
