Early intervention,
beneficial results.
Early examination allows your orthodontist to anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.
Start safeguarding your child's smile today.
Orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile - it creates a healthier, happier you. So get your child started on early orthodontic treatment. A visit to your trusted orthodontist today is a step toward a future of strong and beautiful teeth.
When is the best time to begin orthodontic treatment?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that your child's initial orthodontic evaluation take place at the first sign of an orthodontic problem, or by the age of 7. At this early age, full orthodontic services like braces may not be necessary, but a vigilant examination allows your orthodontist to anticipate the most advantageous time to being treatment.
Why is age 7 considered the optimal time for an initial evaluation?
By the age of 7, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite. At this time your orthodontist can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. From that analysis she can predict how your bite will develop.
Orthodontic treatment is not merely for improving the aesthetics of your child's smile, but also for improving bad bites (malocclusions). Malocclusions occur as a result of tooth or jaw misalignment, and they affect the way you smile, shew and clean your teeth.
Studies show that untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems, including:
- Crowded teeth that are more difficult to properly brush and floss, and therefore are more prone to tooth decay and/or gum disease
- Protruding teeth that are more susceptible to accidental chipping
- Crossbites that can result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear
- Open bites that can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments
What are the benefits of an early orthodontic evaluation?
Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems, and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. This intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious issues later on.
When orthodontic intervention is not necessary right away, Dr. Windhorst carefully monitors growth and development so she knows when is the most ideal time to begin orthodontic services like braces or Invisalign.
Some of the most direct benefits of early orthodontic treatment are:
- Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth
- Improving facial symmetry by influencing jaw growth
- Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
- Preserving space for unerrupted teeth
- Lowering the need for tooth removal
- Minimizing treatment time with braces
Have questions?
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