Early Orthodontic Treatment for Children
What is the difference between early orthodontic treatment and regular orthodontic treatment, and why might my child need early treatment? How will early treatment benefit my child in the long run?
These are just a few of the questions surrounding the topic of early orthodontic treatment for children. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist as early as age seven. At this point the orthodontist will evaluate whether your child will need orthodontic treatment.
Early treatment (also known as Phase One) typically begins around age eight or nine (Phase Two will begin around age 11 or older). The goal of early treatment is to correct the growth of the jaw and certain bite problems, such as underbite. Early treatment also helps to make room for permanent teeth to come in properly, lessening the chance of extractions in the future.
How To Tell If Your Child May Need Early Orthodontic Treatment
- Early or late loss of baby teeth (your child should typically start losing teeth around age five, and will have all permanent teeth around age 13)
- Difficulty chewing and/or biting
- Mouth-breathing
- Your child continues sucking his or her thumb after age five
- Speech impediments
- Protruding teeth (the top teeth and the bottom teeth extend away from each other)
- Teeth that don't come together in a normal manner or even at all
- Shifting of the jaw when your child opens or closes his or her mouth (crossbites)
- Crowded front teeth around age seven or eight
What Causes Orthodontic Problems and How Will Early Treatment Benefit My Child?
Orthodontic problems such as crowding of the teeth, too much space between the teeth, jaw growth problems, protruding teeth, and bad bites can be inherited or caused by injury to the mouth, early or late loss of baby teeth, or thumb-sucking habits.
Most children lose all their baby teeth by age 13, and by the end of their teen years, the jaw bones will harden and stop growing. Orthodontic procedures for adults often take more time and can involve tooth extraction or oral surgery. Receiving early orthodontic treatment as a child can help prevent the need for orthodontics as an adult, leaving little to no chance of extraction or surgery in the future.
If your child is between the ages of seven and eight and shows signs of needing orthodontic care, or if you have been directed by your family dentist to visit the orthodontist, please contact our practice and schedule an appointment. Our team will provide your child with an initial exam, and discuss with you the best steps to take toward caring for your child's smile.
Pediatric Orthodontics Reviews
My son has been coming here for a Year now, everyone here is so nice and very professional. I am extremely happy with how they do things here. My son’s braces progress has been amazing. I have to say also, Chris at the front desk is extremely sufficient and super friendly. I highly recommend this place :-)
It was best decision to start my son’s braces journey with Dixon Orthodontics!
Just get my braces and let me tell you BABY!!!! its the best ever service from each and every person, that works at this place, its not just an Orthodontic office, its a safe place, a place of love and a family oriented environment. I cant wait to go back
I chose Dr. Dixon because my children had gotten their braces there. The staff were friendly, the doctors are skilled. I'm very inpatient but although the office was often packed they got you in and out. I would recommend anyone in need of braces to give them a call.
I can't recommend Dixon Orthodontics enough! I transferred my care to their office due to relocating, and I'm so glad I found them. Dr. Dixon replaced the metal braces I was wearing with clear aligners and it was such a relief. It sped the process up and my teeth look great. The entire staff is friendly and easygoing while still completely professional. They really go above and beyond with their exemplary standard of care.
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