Health Issues Common In Women

Oh Bite Me! Early Orthodontic Intervention

1 October 2015 by admin

Orthodontic treatment is necessary for some children and early intervention can prevent your child's teeth from needing extensive repairs and restoration later on in life. When you think of the word orthodontics, what comes to mind? If you are thinking braces, then you are on the right track. 

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children should visit an orthodontist by the time they are age seven. At this age, the first two front permanent teeth are typically grown in and an orthodontist can evaluate whether or not the child will need braces. 

The First Visit

When your child goes in for his or her first orthodontic evaluation, the orthodontist will examine his or her teeth. In addition to looking at the teeth, the orthodontist will assess your child's bite, how the teeth are growing in, jaw growth patterns, and facial growth. 

Once the examination is completed, the orthodontist will recommend treatment plans for your child. If no treatment is needed, your child will need to follow up occasionally to ensure that their teeth growth is on the right track. 

Why Is Early Treatment Beneficial?

Early orthodontic treatment is beneficial because your child's orthodontist can identify any problems that may occur. The sooner a diagnosis is made, the sooner treatment can be performed, which results in a better smile. 

If your child does need orthodontic treatment, the following can be identified and fixed:

• Reduction in length of braces treatment
• Prevention of overcrowding
• Reduction in an overbite or underbite
• Helping the jaw grow correctly

 Braces for Children

Typically, braces are not used until a child reaches the age of 10 to 14. The teeth are still growing in and developing so it is a crucial time for treatment. The length of treatment varies from a few months to a few years depending on the severity of the dental condition.

There are a number of different types of braces that the orthodontist may recommend for your child. For instance, teens may be able to use a clear braces system while those in their younger years use the traditional metal and rubber band system. In addition to clear and metal braces, some patients need to wear additional attachments including headgear. 

Caring for Your Child's Braces

It is important to ensure that your child is taking care of his or her braces every day. Your child should brush and floss his or her teeth after meals and continue to see an orthodontist (like those at Boland Orthodontics) for follow up visits to track the progress of his or her teeth alignment. 

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