When to do the first orthodontic evaluation for my child?
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends the first orthodontic screening to be done at age 7 for young kids. This is important for orthodontists to recognize any problems in the child's teeth and jaw development. Many children will not need early orthodontic treatment, but it is important to have the evaluation early in case your child may need braces. An orthodontist can evaluate jaw growth, the pattern of adult teeth eruption and any harmful habits that may be occurring such as thumbsucking, tongue thrusting or mouth breathing.
If early treatment is needed, the orthodontist will correct any jaw growth discrepancies, improve the bite relationship between the upper and lower jaws, increase space for permanent teeth, correct any harmful habits, and reduce the need for extractions when possible. Early treatment can also reduce the difficulty of orthodontic treatment once all the adult teeth have erupted.
When is early braces treatment needed in kids?
Can adults have orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment can also be a successful option for adults. They can also improve bite, function and give a beautiful smile. Another added benefit of straight teeth is also comfort and making it easier to floss and brush once the teeth are straightened.
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends the first orthodontic screening to be done at age 7 for young kids. This is important for orthodontists to recognize any problems in the child's teeth and jaw development. Many children will not need early orthodontic treatment, but it is important to have the evaluation early in case your child may need braces. An orthodontist can evaluate jaw growth, the pattern of adult teeth eruption and any harmful habits that may be occurring such as thumbsucking, tongue thrusting or mouth breathing.
If early treatment is needed, the orthodontist will correct any jaw growth discrepancies, improve the bite relationship between the upper and lower jaws, increase space for permanent teeth, correct any harmful habits, and reduce the need for extractions when possible. Early treatment can also reduce the difficulty of orthodontic treatment once all the adult teeth have erupted.
When is early braces treatment needed in kids?
- Crossbites observed in young children will need early orthodontic intervention treatment. Crossbites are when the upper teeth are tucked on the inside of the lower teeth when the child bites down. Usually all teeth in the upper arch are on the outside of the lower when the child is biting. Crossbites are commonly seen in the posterior molars. It can push the lower jaw to either the right or the left side and cause the lower jaw to grow crooked. Crossbites can also be seen in the front teeth. When the patient bites down, the upper teeth will be behind the lower teeth. This can cause gum recession and underbites in young children.
- If there is space but a baby tooth is lost early on, space maintainers may be needed. These small appliances are used to prevent the adjacent teeth from moving into the space and blocking the path needed for the future adult teeth.
- If the patient has crowding in the upper and lower teeth, that may also be a sign that early orthodontic treatment is needed.
Can adults have orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment can also be a successful option for adults. They can also improve bite, function and give a beautiful smile. Another added benefit of straight teeth is also comfort and making it easier to floss and brush once the teeth are straightened.
Clear aligners such as Invisalign is an alternative orthodontic treatment to traditional brackets and wires. It uses a series of clear aligners with tooth toned attachments to align teeth. Invisalign is a great treatment option for many adults, kids and teens. A customized set of clear aligners will progressively reposition your teeth towards your final smile. You may remove the aligners while eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth. This dental technology is more comfortable and convenient than traditional braces.