Did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children get their first orthodontic check-up no later than age 7? That may seem early, but taking care of orthodontic needs from a young age can help your child build and maintain a healthy and confident smile for many years to come. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of early orthodontic care.
Why should your child see an orthodontist early on?
Being able to identify a child’s facial growth pattern early makes it easier to influence and redirect the arrangement of teeth, allowing for a straighter smile when permanent teeth arrive. Around the time your child reaches the age of 7, their first molars have erupted and their bite — the position of the teeth when the jaws are closed — is visible. In addition, incisors are erupting, making early signs of crowding visible. If an orthodontist identifies a potential future orthodontic concern, they might recommend a dental appliance now that could prevent the need for a more complicated or expensive appliance in the future. It may also decrease the amount of time your child wears braces later.
What are some of the early signs of potential future orthodontic concerns?
Early identification is critical in the timing of treatment and parent education. There are a few early signs that can help you to determine if the time is right to schedule an orthodontic consultation for your child. These include issues with bite, crowding, spacing and protrusion.
These visuals from the American Academy of Orthodontists can help you detect problems to watch out for with your growing child.
How much does orthodontic treatment cost?
For those of you nearby one of our BracesBracesBraces or American Family Orthodontics sister practices, you can schedule an initial consultation for FREE! During the initial visit, the team will perform a thorough examination to determine if orthodontic treatment is necessary. General questions regarding treatment costs and payment options are discussed during the first appointment. Keep in mind that the best time to treat a child orthodontically differs from patient to patient. If you are not near a BracesBracesBraces of American Family Orthodontics practice, ask your pediatric dentist to recommend an orthodontist in the area.
