Do All Children Need Early Treatment?
Are you wondering when to take your child in for orthodontic treatment? The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic consultation by the age of 7.Â
Most kids at this age do not need any treatment yet, but an early evaluation allows Dr. Thomas Williams and Dr. Alexis Gallagher to identify missing or extra permanent teeth, an upper or lower jaw that is growing too much or not enough, or habit problems that can be easily corrected if caught early. An early assessment is the best way to ensure your child’s smile gets the attention it deserves when the time is right!
Benefits Beyond a Beautiful Smile:
Early diagnosis and treatment can:
- Guide jaw growth to establish better harmonyÂ
- Improve crowding of the permanent teeth and prevent the need for future removal of permanent teeth
- Guide developing teeth into better positions and reduce the likelihood of impacted teeth
- Prevent damage to the developing permanent teeth
- Prevent the need for future surgical procedures to align the jaws
- Reduce the risk of injury to the teeth
- Correct negative side effects from thumb/finger-sucking habits
- Improve speech problems
- Benefit the airway and allow for closed-mouth breathing
Early orthodontic treatment isn’t always beneficial for every child; certain orthodontic issues are better addressed during the teenage years when all permanent teeth have emerged.
Certain skeletal discrepancies may need to be treated when growth is more advanced or complete. Our doctors create personalized treatment plans based on each child’s unique needs. However, we still recommend a consultation around age seven for the best results!
If the doctors determine the child is not ready for treatment, they will be placed in our Growth Guidance Program.
What is Growth Guidance?
Growth Guidance is a program for children who are not yet ready for treatment. This program allows our orthodontists to monitor jaw growth and the eruption patterns of permanent teeth. Regular growth and development checks are important, which is why every visit is complimentary until treatment is initiated. We’ve made the whole experience as fun and easy as possible!
If a Child Receives Early Treatment, Will They Still Need Braces as an Adolescent?
Early treatment can:
- Address significant issues
- Prevent more severe problems
- Simplify future treatment needs
Since interceptive treatment occurs before all permanent teeth have emerged, a shortened comprehensive phase (Phase II) with full braces/Invisalign may be needed during the pre-teen or teen years to complete the correction. In some cases, additional orthodontic treatment may not be necessary.
Do We Still Need to See Our Family Dentist During Orthodontic Treatment?
Absolutely! It is crucial to keep up with regular check-ups and cleanings with your dentist while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Braces and other orthodontic appliances require extra attention to maintain good oral hygiene. Our orthodontists prioritize your dental health and will urge you to visit your dentist frequently to guarantee the health of your teeth and gums throughout your treatment.
