Early orthodontic treatment is primarily used to prevent and correct bite irregularities that could be caused by genetic factors, the loss of baby teeth, and poor oral habits such as thumb sucking. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children visit the orthodontist around age seven.
HOW EARLY ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT CAN HELP YOUR CHILD:
Enhance self-confidence and aesthetic appearance
Increase likelihood of proper jaw growth
Create space for crowded teeth and monitor permanent teeth as they grow
Correct thumb sucking and improve speech problems
Reduce risk of childhood cavities, periodontal disease, and tooth decay
Prevent future permanent tooth extractions
HERE ARE A FEW THINGS TO LOOK FOR THAT MAY MEAN YOUR CHILD NEEDS TO SEE AN ORTHODONTIST:
Loses baby teeth early or late
Difficulty chewing or biting food
Breathes through their mouth
Sucks their thumb
Has crowded, misplaced, or blocked teeth
Jaws appear too far forward or back
Jaws pop or make sounds when opening and closing
Teeth and jaws are not proportionate to the rest of the face