The Importance of Early Orthodontic Treatment

Posted on August 12, 2021

When it comes to dental health, preventative measures are always better than reactive measures for your child’s orthodontic treatment. Generally, it is recommended that you take your child for their first check-up with an orthodontist by age 7.

By then, your child should have enough permanent teeth for an orthodontist to do a proper examination. This is sometimes referred to as “interceptive” treatment because it is performed while your child still has some baby teeth.

This early orthodontic treatment is crucial because the orthodontist will be able to evaluate the still-developing teeth and the jaw. In addition, a well-trained orthodontist will be able to spot any potential problems and relay important health information that helps to ensure that your child will not have cosmetic or oral health issues down the line. Here is more on the importance of early orthodontic treatment.

Early Orthodontic Treatment Gives You Important Information About Your Child’s Oral Health

Even when treatment is found to be unnecessary it is still important to know your child does not have any dental issues. This offers peace of mind to many parents and tells them they are on track when it comes to any dental habits and practices they have been developing in their kids. On the flip side, if there are teeth or jaw issues that warrant concern, you can address them earlier and prevent future pain or treatment that can be more costly.

It Gives Warning of Future Treatment That May Be Needed

Orthodontists are trained to spot even subtle problems in young children. Therefore, early orthodontic care ensures your child gets the right follow-up treatment as their face, permanent teeth and jaw continue to develop and erupt. This prevents any dental problems from becoming so serious that they require invasive treatment later when your child is maturing and busier with extracurricular activities.

It Shows Areas That Require Immediate Attention

Many problems may cause an orthodontist to recommend treatment. These include teeth that need to be removed, as well as underbites, crossbites, and excessively spaced or crowded teeth. The orthodontist can treat these problems in various ways. For instance, they can use dental appliances or devices used to shift teeth, hold them in place or change the jaw’s position to effect the right changes.

Regardless of the outcome of the visit to the orthodontist, there is no doubt that making an orthodontic appointment to discuss the possible need for early treatment can help save you a lot of trouble down the line. However, be sure to find only the best orthodontist for your child. Keep in mind that while all orthodontists are trained dentists, only 5% of dentists are also licensed orthodontists, so orthodontists are a pretty special bunch!