Early/Child Orthodontic Treatment

Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. Beginning treatment at this time ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.

Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, the doctors at Associated Orthodontics can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.

Some of the most direct results of interceptive treatment are:

•Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth
•Creating facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth
•Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
•Preserving space for unerupted teeth
•Reducing the need for tooth removal
•Reducing treatment time with braces

Give your child a head start on a great smile.

Your child’s secret to a great smile (and less time spent in braces!) is early interceptive orthodontic treatment. This means bringing your child in for an orthodontic exam as early as age 7 – while his or her teeth and facial bones are still growing.

The orthodontists at Associated Orthodontists have extensive experience working with children. They can enhance your child’s smile before little problems become big ones and can also ensure that your child spends a fraction of the usual time wearing braces.

At about age 7, the first permanent teeth begin to replace baby teeth. Many problems may occur at this age which, if left untreated, can become difficult to correct later or even cause irreparable damage to permanent teeth. That’s why the American Association of Orthodontists recommends orthodontic exams no later than age 7 to check for the following conditions:

• Excessive wear & chipping of front teeth
• Severe crowding
• Habits: finger/thumb-sucking, tongue-thrusting
• Crossbite of front & back teeth
• Eruption problems & space management

With Associated Orthodontists and their caring staff, your child will receive above-and-beyond personal attention that can make every visit a relaxing, fun and positive experience. Give your child the best chance for a straight, beautiful smile.