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.
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.
Early orthodontic treatment varies between patients, but may include removable or fixed appliances that can provide more room for crowded, erupting teeth; preserve space for unerupted teeth; create facial symmetry through manipulating jaw growth; reduce the possibility of tooth extraction; and reduce overall treatment time in braces.
To find out if your child is a candidate for early interceptive treatment, contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation.