Does My Child Need Early Treatment?

 

Are you wondering if your child needs braces or early treatment? It is a great idea to set up a consultation appointment with your orthodontist. Are you trying to figure out what age to set up an appointment for your child? The answer varies per child but the best age to have your child seen is 7. Most 7-year-olds have begun to grow some of their adult teeth. Does your child need to have all their adult teeth in before they are seen? No, most early treatment begins while they still have some of their baby teeth.

 

 

The goal of early treatment is to intercept any developing problems, eliminate the cause, guide the growth of facial and jaw bones, and provide adequate space for incoming permanent teeth. A patient may require a second course of treatment after all permanent teeth have come in to move those teeth into their best positions.

 

            Early intervention of braces or other orthodontic care for children correct the following developmental issues:

• Underbites – when the lower front teeth are ahead of the upper front teeth.
• Crossbites – when the jaw shifts to one side.
• Crowded teeth.
• Excessive space between teeth.
• Extra or missing teeth.
• Teeth that meet abnormally, or do not at all.
• Thumb-, finger-, or pacifier- sucking that is affecting the teeth or jaw growth.
• Improve facial symmetry.
• Speech obstruction resolution.

 

To give your child the best opportunity for a healthy, beautiful smile, visit your orthodontist. No referral needed! Your orthodontist can alert you to potential problems and recommend treatment when it is most appropriate for your child. Remember, timing is everything.