Does Early Treatment Benefit All Children?
Not every child is suitable for early orthodontic treatment. Some orthodontic issues are more effectively addressed during the teenage years, once all permanent teeth have emerged. Certain skeletal discrepancies are best managed when growth is more advanced or complete. However, we recommend that your child visit us for a consultation around age seven to ensure we catch any potential issues early and achieve the best results.
If we determine that your child is not yet ready for treatment, they will be enrolled in our orthodontic supervisory program.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment offers several advantages beyond aesthetic improvements:
- Enhanced Bite Function: Proper alignment improves how teeth fit together.
- Better Oral Hygiene: Straighter teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Reduced Wear: Correcting bite issues helps prevent premature wear and tear on teeth.
- Increased Longevity: Proper alignment can extend the lifespan of natural teeth.
Why Early Evaluation Matters
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive an orthodontic screening by the age of seven. This early assessment helps to determine whether orthodontic treatment is necessary and when it should begin. Many local dentists are trained to identify potential orthodontic issues early and may refer your child to us before the age of seven.
For children who do not require immediate treatment, we offer complimentary observation exams every 6 to 12 months through our Kids Club program. When treatment is needed, we will create a personalized plan for your child.
Why Start Evaluations Early?
Early diagnosis and intervention can offer several benefits:
- Guided Growth: Helps position emerging teeth and guide jaw development.
- Space Preservation: Maintains space for permanent teeth.
- Reduced Risk of Injury: Lowers the chance of fracturing protruded teeth.
If early treatment is necessary, we can:
- Guide Jaw Growth: Ensure proper development of the jaw and incoming teeth.
- Regulate Arch Width: Adjust the width of the upper and lower dental arches.
- Prevent Extractions: Avoid the need for removing permanent teeth.
- Address Common Issues: Correct thumb sucking and abnormal swallowing or speech problems.
Early treatment can simplify future orthodontic care once all permanent teeth have emerged.
What is the Orthodontic Supervisory Program?
Our Kids Club is an orthodontic supervisory program designed for children who are not yet ready for active treatment. The program allows us to monitor the eruption of permanent teeth and address any emerging issues early.
Regular observation, typically every 6-12 months, helps us identify the optimal time to begin treatment, ensuring the best outcomes for your child. This program is free of charge and enables us to provide timely recommendations to your general dentist as needed.
Can Early Treatment Prevent Future Braces?
Early treatment can fix significant problems and prevent more severe issues, but it may not eliminate the need for braces during adolescence. In many cases, a comprehensive phase of treatment (Phase II) with full braces will be needed after all permanent teeth have come in to complete the alignment process. In some cases, additional treatment may not be necessary.
Maintaining Dental Health During Orthodontic Treatment
It is important to keep up with regular visits to your family dentist while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Braces and other appliances can make oral hygiene more challenging, so we recommend regular check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal dental health. Our aim is to make sure that your child’s teeth and gums stay healthy throughout their orthodontic treatment.
