Early Signs of Orthodontic Issues

By P. Todd Bonner, DDS, MS

Because orthodontists can detect subtle problems with jaw growth or teeth while a child still has primary (baby) teeth present, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends all children get a check-up with an orthodontic specialist no later than age seven.
If an early orthodontic check-up reveals a problem, your orthodontist will recommend the most appropriate treatment at the most appropriate time. In some cases, early orthodontic treatment may not be recommended but the patient will be re-evaluated periodically to monitor the growth and development of the teeth, jaws and face. The goal of early diagnosis is to allow treatment at the ideal time to achieve the best results.
Early treatment typically occurs while the patient still has some primary (baby) teeth. It is during this stage of development when many orthodontic problems begin to appear. At this critical time, your orthodontist is able to treat orthodontic problems (teeth) but sometimes more importantly, orthopedic problems (jaws). Jaw problems are many times responsible for making the teeth look the way they do. Common examples would be very narrow smiles, severe overbites and open bites. After jaw problems are corrected, a full set of braces is usually necessary to correct any dental misalignment.
Early orthodontic treatment can have dramatic effects on the final orthodontic result achieved in many cases. For others, early treatment is best postponed until all of the permanent teeth have developed. This is why it is important to have your child evaluated by an orthodontist specialist by their seventh birthday. Call your orthodontist today to schedule an evaluation.