When To Seek Orthodontic Treatment For A Child?

When it comes to dental care for kids, parents often wonder when to seek orthodontic treatment for their child. Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that specializes in correcting misaligned teeth and jaws, and the earlier treatment is started, the better the outcome. Let's explore a few key factors to think about when deciding whether an infant needs an orthodontic procedure.

Age & Development:

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children receive an evaluation by the age of 7. At this age, permanent teeth are beginning to come in, and orthodontists can identify any issues with the growth and development of the jaws and teeth. Early intervention can help correct troubles before they become more difficult and expensive to treat in the upcoming days.

If a kid is older than 7 and has not yet had an orthodontic evaluation, it's never too late to schedule one. Even if a child's teeth appear to be straight, an orthodontic assessment can pinpoint potential concerns with the alignment of the teeth or jaws that may require treatment.

Bite Problems:

Bite issues, also known as malocclusions, happen when the teeth and jaws do not align properly. Common kinds of bite troubles include overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites. These issues can cause difficulty chewing, speaking, and even breathing, as well as jaw pain and headaches.

If a kid has a bite problem, early orthodontic treatment can help correct it before it causes more significant issues. Orthodontic appliances such as braces, aligners, and expanders can be used to move the teeth and jaws into the correct position, improving a child's oral health and overall well-being.

Consult experienced pediatric dentistry to figure out which is the right time to bring kids to an orthodontist. Early intervention can assist in correcting issues before they become more significant, boosting a child's oral health and overall well-being.