Orthodontic treatment can play a crucial role in ensuring proper dental alignment and a healthy smile. Many parents often wonder about the best age to begin orthodontic treatment for their children.
While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, early orthodontic treatment can offer numerous advantages that can positively impact a child’s oral health and overall development. This blog aims to provide insights into the ideal age for starting orthodontic treatment and the benefits of addressing dental issues early on.
Let’s take a look at when to start orthodontic treatment.
Early Orthodontic Treatment: Age 7-9
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should have their first orthodontic evaluation at the age of 7. At this time, the child’s permanent teeth are starting to come in and their jaw is still developing. An early examination by an orthodontist can help identify any potential issues and create a treatment plan if needed.
Early orthodontic treatment, also known as interceptive treatment, usually involves using appliances such as braces or aligners to guide the growth and development of the teeth and jaw. This phase of treatment typically lasts for around 6-12 months before a break is taken until all adult teeth have erupted.
The Importance of Early Orthodontic Treatment for Children’s Oral Health
Investing in your child’s oral health early on can prevent more significant issues down the road. Early orthodontic treatment can address and correct problems before they become severe, saving both time and money in the long run.
It’s essential to understand that orthodontics isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about ensuring the proper function and health of your child’s teeth and jaw. Early treatment can prevent or correct issues such as overcrowding, crossbites, overbites, and underbites which can lead to more severe problems if left unaddressed.
How Early Treatment Can Prevent or Reduce the Severity of Future Orthodontic Issues
Early orthodontic treatment can help guide the growth and development of a child’s teeth, jaw, and facial structure. By addressing issues at an early age, orthodontists can take advantage of a child’s natural growth to correct problems more effectively.
Here are some key benefits:
- Creating Room for Crowded, Erupting Teeth: By guiding the growth of the jaw and creating space for incoming teeth, early treatment can prevent crowding issues that often lead to more complex problems.
- Reducing the Risk of Trauma to Protruding Teeth: Protruding front teeth are more susceptible to injuries. Early treatment can bring these teeth into proper alignment, reducing the risk of trauma.
- Preserving Space for Un-erupted Teeth: Early treatment can ensure there’s enough space for permanent teeth yet to come in, preventing the need for extraction or more extensive work later on.
- Influencing Jaw Growth to Create Facial Symmetry: Orthodontic appliances can guide jaw growth, resulting in better facial symmetry and a more balanced appearance.
- Reducing Overall Treatment Time: Addressing issues early can shorten the duration of later treatment, making it more efficient and less cumbersome for both the child and the parents.
Signs That Your Child May Need Early Orthodontic Care
Recognizing early signs of orthodontic issues in your child can significantly contribute to timely and effective treatment. Here are some indicators that may suggest the need for an orthodontic evaluation:
- Early or Late Loss of Baby Teeth: The typical age for losing baby teeth is around six to seven years. Losing teeth too early or too late can indicate potential spacing problems or alignment issues.
- Difficulty Chewing or Biting: If your child has trouble chewing or biting food, it might be due to malocclusion (misalignment of teeth) or jaw issues that need addressing.
- Mouth Breathing: Breathing through the mouth instead of the nose can affect the growth and development of the jaw and teeth, leading to alignment issues.
- Thumb Sucking: Prolonged thumb sucking beyond the age of five can cause significant changes to the teeth and jaw structure, resulting in misalignment.
- Speech Difficulties: Difficulty in pronouncing certain sounds or words may be linked to improper tooth and jaw alignment.
- Protruding Teeth: If your child’s teeth stick out or are very crowded, it can indicate the need for orthodontic intervention.
- Jaw Shifts, Popping, or Clicking: If your child’s jaw shifts when opening or closing the mouth, or if there are sounds like popping or clicking, these may indicate jaw alignment issues.
- Crowded or Misplaced Teeth: Teeth that are too crowded or growing in at unusual angles or positions can signal the need for orthodontic care.
- Biting the Cheek or Roof of the Mouth: This could indicate misaligned teeth, which might need orthodontic correction to prevent further complications.
By being vigilant and recognizing these signs, parents can ensure their children receive the necessary orthodontic care at the right time, setting them up for a healthy, confident smile.
Learning from Dr. Bill Dischinger’s Expertise on Modern Orthodontics
In Dr. Bill Dischinger’s book, “Spectacular Smiles, Superior Customer Service. Today’s Orthodontics” you’ll discover how modern orthodontics has evolved. He highlights what to look for in a quality orthodontic office and explains how today’s treatments differ from the past.
With a touch of humor, Dr. Dischinger provides valuable insights that can help parents make informed decisions about their child’s orthodontic care. From the benefits of early treatment to debunking common myths, this book is an essential guide for anyone seeking orthodontic care.
Conclusion
Early orthodontic treatment is essential for your child’s oral health and overall wellbeing. By starting the ideal age of 7 for orthodontic treatment, you can prevent or reduce the severity of future orthodontic issues, ensuring a healthier and more beautiful smile for your child.
At Dischinger Orthodontics, we offer individualized, gentle, and effective care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Schedule a free consultation with us today to give your child the best start on their orthodontic journey.
For more insights, don’t miss Dr. Bill Dischinger’s book on modern orthodontics, available now.
Taking the first step towards a healthier smile has never been easier. Contact us at Dischinger Orthodontics to schedule your child’s initial consultation and discover the difference that expert care can make. Together, we’ll create a plan that sets your child up for a lifetime of beautiful, confident smiles.
