Orthodontics for Children

When is the best time to start and have orthodontics for children?

Orthodontics for Children Although orthodontic treatment can be done at any age, there is an optimal time period for beginning the process. Both the American and Canadian Associations of Orthodontists officially recommend that the first orthodontic evaluation should be carried out at age 7, which is the age during which many orthodontic problems become evident.

At this early age, orthodontics for children treatment might not be necessary but for particular problems, if treatment is initiated early, it ensures the best results with reduced treatment complexity in the future. In some cases, the need for braces might be eliminated altogether.

What benefits does early orthodontic evaluation offer?

An early evaluation allows for many problems to be recognized and treated more effectively and efficiently. Early intervention can improve dental-skeletal growth and development, and most importantly prevent serious problems later on. Every child is unique, therefore, treatment approaches are customized. If orthodontic intervention is not necessary, your child’s dental development is carefully monitored by our orthodontist and treatment initiated only at a time when it is necessary.

Why is age 7 the best time for screening?

The first adult molars erupt by age 7, which establishes the back bite. It’s during this time that an orthodontist can perform an effective evaluation of side-to-side and front-to-back tooth relationships. This timing is very good to start screening and decide if you should start having orthodontics for children.

For example, if there are any erupting incisors it could indicate an overbite, crowding, open bite or gummy smile. When screening is carried out in a timely manner, the overall chances of having an amazing smile are increased significantly.

What advantages does interceptive treatment offer?

Here’s a selection of the most commonly noticed direct results:

Reduced treatment time with braces
Reduced requirement for tooth removal
Increased space for unerupted teeth
Lowered risk of trauma to front teeth (if they’re protruding)
Increased facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth
Increasing room for crowded, erupting teeth

What’s the use in treating malocclusions?

Multiple studies have been carried out by the American Association of Orthodontists, which found that when malocclusions go untreated it can lead to a variety of orthodontic issues. These include:

Open bites, resulting in possible speech impediments and tongue-thrusting habits
Crossbites, which can lead to uneven tooth wear and unfavorable tooth growth
Protruding teeth, which are more likely to get damaged by accidental chipping
Crowded teeth, which can cause difficulty in properly flossing and brushing the teeth, resulting in possible gum disease or tooth decay