What age should you first see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children have an orthodontic check up before the age of 7.
The reason for this examination are to check the position of molars when they first erupt. At this time the orthodontist can evaluate the position of the molars and the relationship of the biting surfaces. This allows the doctor to discover any functional shifts or cross-bite as well.
At this time incisors (front teeth) have begun to erupt and problems can be detected such as crowding, biting issues, habits with tongue or fingers and also any jaw problems.
For some patients this allows the doctor to start early treatment. This early treatment can be beneficial when the patient is growing and significantly reduce later treatment time.
Resources:
www.braces.org
1 comment:
The main reason to bring your child to see the orthodontist early is to prepare them for their journey to straight teeth. This helps them get used to their orthodontist before treatment begins. Early treatment in children around the age of 7, is usually required for severe cases, that need a skeletal change. The earlier an orthodontist can begin correcting bite problems the easier the treatment will be when the patient is older. We like to work with growing children because we can change the bite structure without surgery.
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