You may be surprised to find out your young child should be evaluated for orthodontic treatment as early as the age of seven. The American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontics both recommend visiting a dental professional for an evaluation about the time their permanent teeth begin emerging. At this time, orthodontists can identify potential problems with erupting teeth and issues with jaw development and begin to develop a long-term plan for treatment.
Orthodontists usually suggest seeking treatment for problems such as overcrowding and bite issues before your child stops growing. Beginning the process early does not necessarily mean your child will be getting braces immediately, but it will allow your caregiver to correct problems that can make the orthodontic phase shorter and less complicated.
Many orthodontists are now recommending a two-step orthodontic treatment plan. The initial phase can begin at an earlier age, and sometimes utilizes a dental appliance rather than braces. The second phase involves the placement of traditional braces. This two-phase method of treatment can begin earlier than the traditional one-step plan unlike traditional braces that must wait until the majority of permanent teeth have emerged. A two-phase process is often shorter than treatment that did not begin with adjustments made with dental hardware.
Having your child’s teeth, bite, and jaw condition evaluated early could shave months or even years off their orthodontic treatment plan. Schedule a consultation with Burbank orthodontist, Dr. Fotovat today to find out more about how to ensure your child a lifetime of straight, beautiful smiles.
