The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have an initial orthodontic evaluation by the age of seven. It is important to start an orthodontic treatment plan as early as possible, so any problems can be addressed while the child’s mouth is still growing and developing.
At this age, many developmental issues can be identified, such as malocclusion (misaligned teeth), crossbites, underbites, and overbites. These problems are easier to correct when caught early.
If your child is between the ages of 8-10 and still has not been evaluated for orthodontic treatment, it is important to get them checked out as soon as possible. This is a critical time in the development of their teeth and jaw, so it’s important to make sure any problems are identified and treated if necessary.
Your child may not need treatment right away, but an early evaluation will allow your orthodontist to monitor any developing issues and begin treatment when the best results are likely to be achieved.
If your child is over the age of 10, it is still important to have an evaluation in order to identify any problems and begin treatment if necessary. However, by this age, some issues may be harder or even impossible to correct without more invasive procedures such as jaw surgery.
It is best to take your child to the orthodontist as soon as possible in order to identify any problems and begin treatment when it will be most effective. This will help ensure a healthy smile for life.
Some children may need to start orthodontic treatment as early as age seven. Early treatment can be beneficial in addressing malocclusion, crossbites, underbites, and overbites while the child’s mouth is still growing and developing.
However, it is important to remember that not all children will require orthodontic treatment at this age. Some children may need to begin treatment as late as their teenage years in order to treat more complicated issues. Your orthodontist can help you make the best decision for your child’s individual needs. Depending on their age, your orthodontist may want to monitor your child’s development to ensure there are no issues as their adult teeth come in. With proper evaluation early on in their development, we can create a customized treatment strategy for your child.
Some signs that your child may need orthodontic treatment include the following:
– Teeth that are crowded, crooked, or protruding
– Biting the cheeks or roof of the mouth
– A jaw that clicks or pops when opening and closing
– Difficulty chewing or biting
– Speech difficulties such as lisping
If you have noticed any of these signs in your child, it is important to get them evaluated by an orthodontist as soon as possible.
Orthodontic treatment can be intimidating for some children, so it is important to make sure you explain the process in a way that is reassuring and calming. Explain that orthodontists help people achieve beautiful smiles and healthy mouths. Remind them of how great their teeth will look after treatment!
Make sure to choose an orthodontist who has experience working with children, so they can make the process as fun and comfortable as possible. You may also want to talk to other parents whose kids have had successful orthodontic treatments, so your child can get a better idea of what to expect.
At the end of the day, it is important to ensure that your child is comfortable with their orthodontic treatment. With the right orthodontist, you can be sure that your child’s smile will be healthy and beautiful for years to come.
For more information, talk to your family dentist or contact an orthodontist near you. An experienced orthodontist can help you make the best decision for your child’s smile. If you have any questions or concerns about orthodontic care for your child, don’t hesitate to contact King Orthodontics today. We are here to help!
