How to Know If My Child Needs Early Orthodontics
February 27, 2021 5:27 pmThe American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends children receive their first orthodontic checkup around seven years old. This is the age where the jaw is developed enough to determine if there are any current problems.
An orthodontic evaluation doesn’t mean treatment will begin right away if any issues are found. An orthodontist can determine if there may be future issues as the jaw and adult teeth develop and create an intervention plan.
Signs My Child Needs Orthodontics
There are some signs that orthodontic treatment may be beneficial for your child. As your child’s teeth and jaw develop, observe them for any of these signs:
- Chewing or biting problems
- Prolonged finger or thumbsucking
- Disproportionate jaw
- Teeth don’t meet or meet irregularly
- Crowded baby teeth
- Jaw that clicks or pops
At your child’s orthodontic consultation, we’ll discuss any dental problems or irregularities that your child experiences because of their bite and teeth alignment. Dr. Meason will give you his expert recommendations about the right future treatment plan for your child’s oral health! For some patients, early orthodontics is beneficial.
Early Orthodontics
If Dr. Meason does recommend early orthodontic treatment, there are several possible treatment options:
- Preventive Treatment – This can involve treatments like extraction of a baby tooth to prevent overcrowding or insertion of a space retainer to keep a space for adult teeth to grow in.
- Interceptive Treatment – This can occur when your child still has some of their baby teeth. It can involve treatments like a palate expander or short-term braces to prepare your child’s mouth and jaw for additional treatment.
- Comprehensive Treatment – When your child is ready, a full treatment plan utilizing traditional braces or ceramic braces can fix misaligned teeth or jaw issues. Clear aligner therapy may be appropriate for some teenagers.
Schedule Your Child’s Orthodontic Consultation in Weatherford, TX
If you are concerned about your child’s dental growth, please schedule an appointment with us. We will evaluate their teeth and jaw development and make any recommendations for them to have a straighter, healthier smile. Contact us today!
Categorised in: Orthodontic Tips, Orthodontics
