We don’t recommend early orthodontic treatment for most patients. When it is needed, it can prevent certain problems from becoming worse, eliminate those problems all together, or make treating those problems during adolescence more successful. Early treatment is typically done between the ages of 7 and 10. Because of this, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that a child visit an orthodontist for a checkup no later than age 7. An early evaluation at this age increases your child’s chances for a healthy, beautiful smile.
If certain orthodontic problems are present, Dr. Martin or Dr. Smith may recommend early treatment. Early treatment takes advantage of facial growth and tooth eruption. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing the development of serious problems and decreasing the amount of time and expense necessary to correct these problems later on.
Interceptive treatment may be beneficial in:
- Enhancing self-esteem
- Reducing the risk of fracture or loss of protruding front teeth
- Promoting proper speech development
- Ensuring proper alignment of the jaws and teeth
- Correcting bad bites (malocclusions)
- Eliminating harmful habits like tongue thrusting, and thumb or finger sucking.
- Evaluating breathing conditions that may have a negative effect on normal jaw development
- Correcting crossbites, which can result in unfavorable jaw growth and uneven tooth wear.
- In conjunction with your family dentist, coordinating the removal of baby teeth, and preserving space for the proper eruption of permanent teeth