Studio Orthodontics is an Arlington, Grand Prairie & Saginaw TX orthodontics practice that provides quality orthodontic care for children, teenagers and adults. While most people know that it is never too late to start orthodontic treatment, many people don’t realize that starting orthodontic treatment at a younger age is often more effective than starting it later in life.
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children receive their first orthodontic screening by the age of 7. While this may seem like an early age to see an orthodontist, there are many good reasons the AAO recommends these early screenings. Here are seven good reasons to take your child to an orthodontist by the age of 7.
Potential Problems Can Be Identified Early
When children reach the age of 7, their adult molars have typically emerged to establish the back bite. This is when an orthodontist can access the tooth relationships. This provides the orthodontist with insights on any potential problems, such as an overbite, underbite, crowded teeth or a gummy smile.
Jaw Growth Can Be Guided at an Early Age
Some children require early orthodontic treatment to help guide jaw growth to ensure they have a proper bite. This early treatment can consist of using special orthodontic appliances to guide the growth of the jaw while the child is still developing and growing.
Can Help Break Bad Oral Habits
Bad oral habits like thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting can cause misaligned teeth and changes to the jaw shape. There are various orthodontic treatments available to help correct these habits and the sooner they’re addressed, the less damage they may cause.
Non-Erupted Teeth Can be Checked
An orthodontist can take X-rays to see what is taking place underneath the gums such as the position and growth of bones and joints and the teeth that have yet to erupt. This allows the orthodontist to plan any necessary treatment early for the best possible outcome.
Paves the Way to a Healthy and Beautiful Smile
Taking your child to the orthodontist when young gives your child the best opportunity to have a straight, healthy and beautiful smile that can last a lifetime.
Early Treatment Can Be Easier and Less Costly
Because it’s often easier to treat many types of orthodontic problems when a child is young, early treatment is often less complicated and less costly than treatment received later in life.
Gives The Child Self-Confidence
Having straight teeth and a beautiful smile can provide a child with a big boost of self-confidence. When a child receives needed orthodontic treatment early in life, they will feel good about themselves and be proud to smile around others.
Visit Our Arlington, Grand Prairie & Saginaw, TXOrthodontist
If you would like to schedule your child’s first orthodontic appointment with us, please complete the ‘Appointment Request‘ form that is on our main website. One of our team members will then contact you to confirm your appointment time. We look forward to meeting you and your child soon!