When Should Your Child See an Orthodontist?

By Your Health Magazine

Your Health Magazine

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When Should Your Child See an Orthodontist?

As a parent, you want what is best for your child, including a healthy, confident smile that lasts a lifetime. While many people associate orthodontics with teenagers, an early evaluation can be one of the most important steps you take for your child’s long-term oral health. This simple check-up can set the stage for a better smile and prevent more complex issues down the road.

Understanding when to schedule that first visit can be confusing. However, taking a proactive approach to your child’s orthodontic health can make a significant difference. Early treatment can lead to a beautiful, functional smile for the future.

Why Age Seven is the Magic Number

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have their first orthodontic check-up around age seven. This might seem young, but it is the ideal time for a specialist to assess your child’s development.

By this age, the first adult molars have usually erupted, establishing the back of the bite. This allows an orthodontist to spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth while baby teeth are still present. An early evaluation does not always mean your child will get braces right away. For many kids, it is simply a chance for a professional to monitor their growth and plan for the future.

The Benefits of Early Orthodontic Intervention

When treatment is necessary, early intervention (often called Phase One Treatment) provides significant advantages. It can make future treatment shorter and less complicated. Addressing issues while the jaw is still growing can be far more effective than waiting.

Early orthodontic care allows a specialist to:

• Guide jaw growth to create a more balanced and harmonious facial profile.
• Create sufficient space for crowded teeth to erupt properly into the mouth.
• Reduce the risk of needing permanent tooth extractions later on.
• Correct harmful oral habits like thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting.
• Lessen the risk of trauma to front teeth that may be protruding.

Signs Your Child May Need an Evaluation

It is not always easy for parents to tell if their child has an orthodontic problem. Some issues are not visible to the untrained eye. However, there are some common signs you can look for that may indicate a need for a check-up.

Consider scheduling an evaluation with a local orthodontist if you notice any of the following:

• Early or late loss of baby teeth
• Difficulty chewing or biting food
• Habitual mouth breathing
• Crowded, misplaced, or blocked-out teeth
• Jaws that seem to shift, make sounds, or protrude
• Teeth that do not meet at all or meet in an abnormal way
• Jaws and teeth that appear out of proportion to the rest of the face

What is Two-Phase Treatment?

For some children, a proactive, two-phase treatment approach is the key to achieving a healthy, stable smile. This specialized process allows an orthodontist to correct significant problems before they become more complex.

Phase One is the first step and typically begins between ages seven and ten. The goal is not to perfect every tooth, but to address major structural issues while the jaw is developing. After this phase, there is a resting period where the remaining permanent teeth emerge.

Phase Two is what most people consider traditional orthodontics. It usually starts when most permanent teeth have come in. Because Phase One already corrected the foundational issues, this second phase is often shorter and more straightforward. Practices like Explore Orthodontics in Santa Maria, CA, help families navigate this process to build a strong foundation for a lifetime of smiles.

Taking a proactive approach to your child’s oral health gives them the best chance for a positive outcome. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems, saving time, money, and discomfort in the long run. To ensure your child’s smile is on the right track, consider consulting with a specialist to explore your options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my child need braces if they have an early evaluation?
Not necessarily. An early evaluation is primarily for assessment. The orthodontist will monitor your child’s growth and development. Treatment will only be recommended if there is a clear benefit to starting early. In many cases, the recommendation is simply to observe and wait.

Is early orthodontic treatment painful for children?
Modern orthodontic appliances are designed for comfort. While your child might experience some mild soreness or discomfort as their teeth and jaw adjust, this is temporary and easily managed. The orthodontist will provide guidance on how to handle any discomfort.

What is the main goal of Phase One treatment?
The primary goal of Phase One is to address significant issues with jaw growth and tooth eruption that would be more difficult to treat later. It aims to create a better environment for the permanent teeth to come in, potentially preventing the need for extractions or surgery in the future.

How long does early treatment typically last?
Phase One treatment usually lasts between 12 to 18 months, depending on the specific needs of the child. Afterward, there is typically a “resting” period where the child wears a retainer and is monitored as their permanent teeth erupt, before moving on to Phase Two if necessary.