Even though most people think of pre-teens and teens when they think of orthodontics, there are good reasons your child should get an orthodontic evaluation much sooner. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an early orthodontic evaluation with an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7.
Why Your Child Should Get An Orthodontic Check-up No Later Than Age 7:
- Orthodontists can spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth while some baby teeth are still present.
- While your child’s teeth may appear to be straight, there could be a problem that only an orthodontist can detect.
- The check-up may reveal that your child’s bite is fine. Or, the orthodontist may identify a developing problem but recommend monitoring the child’s growth and development and then if indicated, begin treatment at the appropriate time for the child. In other cases, the orthodontist might nd a problem that can bene t from early treatment.
- Early treatment may prevent more serious problems from developing and may make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated.
- In some cases, the orthodontist will be able to achieve results that may not be possible once the face and jaws have finished growing.
- Early treatment may give your orthodontist a chance to:
- guide jaw growth
- lower the risk of trauma to protruded front teeth
- correct harmful oral habits
- improve appearance
- guide permanent teeth into a more favorable position
- improve the way lips meet
- Through an early orthodontic evaluation, you’ll be giving your child the best opportunity for a healthy, beautiful smile.
Because patients differ in both physiological development and treatment needs, the orthodontist’s goal is to provide each patient with the most appropriate treatment at the most appropriate time.
When should my child have the first visit with an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first check-up with an orthodontist no later than age 7. By that age, a child will have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, and the orthodontist will be able to recognize orthodontic problems (“malocclusions”) even in their earliest stages.
If your child is younger than 7, and you notice something that appears “off,” it’s not necessary to wait until your child turns seven or get a recommendation from your dentist to get the first check-up. If your child is eight or older, it is not too late for a check-up with an orthodontist.
How We Can Help
When you visit us, you ensure that you receive the best care available and the best possible outcome. We specialize in healthy smiles! If you would like to learn how we can help you achieve the smile of your dreams, please contact us for an initial complimentary orthodontic consultation for you or your child by calling Glass Orthodontics at (757) 204-7770 or scheduling online.
