In the 1990’s The American Association of Orthodontics began recommending orthodontic consultations for children at age seven because most children have lost several baby teeth by this point and permanent teeth are beginning to come in. At age seven, potential problems can be identified and steps can be taken to minimize the development of bigger problems down the road.
There are multiple reasons early treatment or early intervention may be recommended. A child’s jaw is still growing at the age of seven and should there be crowding, space can be made by expanding the palate to provide room for the permanent teeth to move into place. This can prevent multiple extractions and crooked teeth in years to come. Expanding a child’s palate can also assist with a misaligned bite.
During early treatment, traditional braces may also be used on front teeth to correct protruding or crooked teeth, as well as, assist in guiding erupting teeth into place. Wondering what other reasons early treatment may be recommended for your child?
- Various bite concerns – open, deep or cross bites
- Spacing
- Teeth not emerging in the right sequence
- Missing teeth
Early treatment will not be recommended for everyone. The best way to find out what is needed for your child is to schedule a consultation with a reputable orthodontist for an evaluation once your child is seven years old. Regain Orthodontics offers free consultations to all new patients and Dr. Regain will recommend a plan to start immediately or a time frame for your child to return to be reevaluated.