Early orthodontic treatment is a great way to get ahead of oral issues that could become worse over the course of a child's life. Bite issues, crowded teeth or jaw malfunction can all contribute to the development of gum disease and cavities over time, which are issues that could require in-depth treatment. However, with early orthodontic care, children will be set up for a lifetime of good oral health.
Most parents who are told their child needs early treatment wonder how old their child should be before they begin treatment. Each child is different, which means treatments may vary. However, for the most part, there are a few general guidelines that orthodontist follow in early orthodontics.
Below is an overview of early orthodontic treatment, including what it is and at what age it should start. This information can be especially helpful for parents who are currently navigating through the orthodontic process.
Early orthodontic treatments are preventive and interceptive measures taken to ensure the healthy development of the oral cavity. The practices themselves are similar to traditional orthodontics; however, treatment starts much earlier and requires more monitoring from the orthodontist. The most common methods of early orthodontic treatment include fixed braces, removable retainers, tooth extraction and headgear.
Early orthodontic treatment typically starts between the ages of six and eight. Generally speaking, orthodontists will evaluate children once they start to lose baby teeth. During the evaluation, if there are any warning signs, the orthodontist may recommend early treatment. While an evaluation may be done even earlier, treatment is not likely to begin until some of the child's adult teeth have erupted. The newly erupting adult teeth are used as a guide for those that have not erupted yet.
In some cases, age does not matter. Instead, the condition of the oral cavity is used to determine if early treatment is necessary. Outlined below are a few signs that may indicate a child should begin early orthodontic treatment in the near future.
Each child is different, meaning their needs may vary. Some children may need early orthodontic treatment for an extended period of time, which can last a few years. In other scenarios, early orthodontic treatment may only be needed for a few months in order to lay the groundwork for traditional treatment.
When parents are considering early orthodontic treatment, it can be intimidating, especially for children as young as six or seven years old. However, it is important to know that treatment often offers many long-term benefits. Ultimately, it saves the child's mouth from developing poorly, which can cause serious problems later.
When looking to learn more about the early orthodontic treatment process, it is best to consult directly with an orthodontist. An evaluation can be done in order to determine the most appropriate course of action. Additionally, questions and concerns can be adequately addressed. Reach out today to get started or to find out more.
Request an appointment here: https://www.smilesbyshell.com or call Dr. Gregory K Shell at (828) 386-9811 for an appointment in our Granite Falls office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Early Orthodontic Treatment in Granite Falls, NC.
Local orthodontics offers convenient access to expert care close to home for patients who want a straighter smile without major schedule disruptions. By choosing local orthodontics, patients reduce commute time, simplify their appointments, and feel more connected to the team guiding their treatment. An orthodontist in the neighborhood understands community routines, school calendars, and local…
Clear braces for teens are recommended when a dentist notices that your child is developing teeth or jaw alignment issues. The American Association of Orthodontists advises taking your child for orthodontic assessment once they reach the age of 7.At this point, their smile should be fully developed and developing issues can be detected. Appliances like…
An orthodontist specializes in malocclusions, or dental misalignments, that affect the jawbone, teeth, or facial symmetry. If a dentist recommended you or your child for this dental specialist, you may wonder what to expect at the first appointment. While it is a relatively simple process, there are some differences in how the orthodontist and their…
Dental braces are one of the most common orthodontic treatments used to correct misaligned teeth. They improve both your oral function and appearance. With advancements in orthodontics, patients now have access to a range of options tailored to individual needs.Traditional metal braces are the most commonly used type of orthodontic treatment and have been the…
Local orthodontics offers convenient access to expert care close to home for patients who want a straighter smile without major schedule disruptions. By choosing local orthodontics, patients reduce commute time, simplify their appointments, and feel more connected to the team guiding their treatment. An orthodontist in the neighborhood understands community routines, school calendars, and local…
Clear braces for teens are recommended when a dentist notices that your child is developing teeth or jaw alignment issues. The American Association of Orthodontists advises taking your child for orthodontic assessment once they reach the age of 7.At this point, their smile should be fully developed and developing issues can be detected. Appliances like…