Orthodontics for Children
Although there isn’t a precise age for initiating orthodontic treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists suggests that children should visit an orthodontist around the age of seven. At this stage, most children have a mix of baby and adult teeth, making it more convenient for orthodontists to diagnose and address tooth and jaw issues early, often avoiding the need for surgical intervention.
Early Treatment Offers the Following Benefits:
- Corrects and guides jaw growth to facilitate the straight emergence of permanent teeth.
- Regulates the width of upper and lower arches.
- Creates additional room for crowded teeth.
- Reduces the likelihood of future permanent tooth extractions.
- Addresses thumb-sucking habits and minor speech difficulties.
Recognizing the need for orthodontic treatment in your child can be challenging for parents. However, there are several signs to watch out for that might indicate it’s time to consult an orthodontist:
- Premature or delayed loss of baby teeth.
- Difficulty in chewing food.
- Habitual mouth breathing.
- Thumb or finger sucking.
- Crowded, misaligned, or obstructed teeth.
- Clicking or unusual sounds from the jaw when opening and closing.
- Abnormal teeth alignment or no alignment at all.
- Disproportionate jaws and teeth concerning facial features.
- Crowding of front teeth at approximately seven or eight years old.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our practice and schedule an orthodontic evaluation for your child. Early intervention will set the foundation for a healthy, stunning smile in the future.
