A dental solution that improves smiles functionally and aesthetically, orthodontic treatment can correct a variety of dental conditions. Misaligned teeth, overbite, underbite, crowding, and protruding teeth are just a few examples of common problems an orthodontist can correct. Orthodontic issues can appear early in children and have a lasting impact on their dental health. Crowded teeth can make it difficult for a child to brush and floss effectively. Teeth that do not receive proper brushing and flossing are often more prone to developing gum disease and tooth decay. A child who has an open bite may develop a speech impediment Jaw clenching, clicking or unusual sounds, teeth grinding, and mouth breathing can all be attributed to orthodontic issues in many cases.

Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment can dramatically improve dental issues and conditions that affect the jaw. An orthodontist can intervene and create space for crowded erupting teeth to grow, enhance facial symmetry, reduce the risk of trauma in protruding teeth, eliminate the need to remove teeth, and even reduce the amount of time a child may be required to wear braces. Orthodontic treatment can also correct problems related to early or late loss of baby teeth, tongue thrusting, and persistent thumb sucking. Parents who observe any of these conditions in their child should consult a pediatric orthodontist and, if necessary, schedule an evaluation.

At What Age Should a Child See An Orthodontist?

Orthodontics recommend parents bring their children in for a visit by age seven. Tooth development can vary widely among children at around age seven. Orthodontists typically want to evaluate pediatric patients’ development at this stage, when the adult molars have typically erupted and are beginning to form the basis of the back bite. At age seven, an orthodontist can typically tell whether there is enough room for all the child’s permanent teeth. Moreover, an orthodontist can determine whether any variance is due to normal development or if a more severe issue is beginning to emerge.

Early Detection Is Important

In the interest of detecting potential problems early, orthodontists want to see their pediatric patients when their first adult molars begin to erupt. Many common issues are easier to treat when they are detected while the child’s jaw is still growing. Early detection and treatment can also eliminate the need for extensive treatment later. Pediatric patients often do not need orthodontic treatment at age seven. Nevertheless, parents should bring their child to have an evaluation to allow the orthodontist to monitor the child’s growth and development and to create a plan for the upkeep of the child’s dental health as he or she grows.

Visiting Creed Orthodontics in Cypress Texas

A child’s first orthodontic visit serves multiple purposes. Parents should view the visit as a check-in with a dental professional who will serve as an ally in their child’s dental care. An early orthodontic checkup will determine whether the child’s teeth and jaw are developing as they should. More importantly, children who are beginning to show signs of orthodontic issues may receive the early intervention they need to remain healthy and to potentially avoid more severe problems in the future.