The Importance of Early Orthodontic Evaluations: When Should Your Child See an Orthodontist?
Have you noticed a gap between the new front teeth of your first or second-grader? Is it too early to have them seen by an orthodontist? If you ask your dentist, they will encourage you to bring your child in for an orthodontic evaluation between the ages of six and eight. So, now is a great time to schedule their first appointment with Gladwell Orthodontics.
Why is the age of seven the recommended age for a first visit to the orthodontist?
While every child is different, most children have the first rear molars in around age six and lose one or more of their front teeth by the age of seven. This means that the shape of their jaw is set, and it is clear to see if their teeth are coming in as expected. It’s the earliest age at which your orthodontist gets a good idea of existing problems and the likelihood of future issues.
What are some signs that I should bring my child in for a consultation? The most common indicators that your young one may benefit from an orthodontist include:
- Crooked smile due to gaps, overbite, underbite, or crowded teeth
- Thumbsucking past the age of five
- Tongue pushing is a significant and notable habit past the age of four
- Complaints of headaches or jaw pain
- Teeth grinding
Habits that linger past an early age may signify that there is a physical impediment that the habit eases. A professional can help you determine if it’s a real problem or if your child just needs a little longer to give up such a habit.
My child lost a tooth as a toddler. Will that cause a problem?
Yes, children trip and fall and sometimes might knock one of their baby teeth out before its time. This can allow the other teeth to move to fill in the space and block their permanent tooth from erupting as it should. As they get older, it becomes a domino effect of crowding other adult teeth and can result in a poor bite, speech difficulties, and even jaw pain.
Can the orthodontist straighten a smile when they are so young?
Yes, for minor misalignments. When your child sees the orthodontist around the age of seven, their palette and jaw are still not completely set. Starting treatment earlier also nets a better final result.
What types of procedures can be done for my second-grader?
Orthodontic treatments often include the use of braces on the front teeth, retainers, and in some cases, palette stretchers. The goal is to optimize the shape of the jaw while it is still malleable so that their permanent teeth will be properly lined up for a strong and straight smile.
However, your orthodontist may find that no treatment is needed now and will recommend that you return at a later time for a re-evaluation.
What if we wait until my child is 10 years old to see the orthodontist?
If you wait until most of their adult teeth have come in for your first consultation, it is more difficult to address a malformed palette or jawline. Treatment becomes more invasive and less likely to result in a properly aligned bite. The straightening process for teeth takes longer, too, as the roots are more firmly held in place. They can still achieve a great smile, but it may require more invasive techniques, more time, etc.
How does orthodontic treatment help my child later in life?
A straight smile does more than give your child added confidence when they take a selfie. A properly aligned bite is less likely to cause teeth grinding, jaw pain, cavities, or cracks in teeth. Investing in proper care for their teeth now can improve their dental health well into their senior years.
Is your child finishing up first grade? Then, it’s a great time to schedule their first orthodontic consultation. If you are in the Raleigh, Durham, and Wake Forest area, give us a call at Gladwell Orthodontics. We have a location convenient to your home, school, or business.
