When Should Your Child Visit the Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have an orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. This early assessment allows Dr. Miller to identify potential orthodontic issues and determine the most suitable timing for treatment. Many dentists in our community are trained to detect early orthodontic problems and may advise visiting Paul E. Miller, DDS, PC, even before age 7 if concerns arise.
Why evaluate children at such a young age?
Early diagnosis and intervention can guide emerging teeth into better positions, maintain space for permanent teeth, and reduce the risk of fracturing protruding front teeth.
Benefits of Early Treatment
If early treatment is necessary, Dr. Miller can help guide jaw development and permanent teeth eruption. This early intervention can align dental arch widths, create space for permanent teeth, prevent extractions, reduce the risk of impacted teeth, and address habits like thumb-sucking or abnormal speech patterns. Early treatment sets the stage for optimal dental health and development, streamlining future interventions once all permanent teeth have erupted.
Is early treatment suitable for all children?
Not every child benefits from early treatment. Some orthodontic issues are better corrected during the teenage years when all permanent teeth are present or when growth is more advanced. Treatment plans are tailored to each child’s specific needs. Children not ready for treatment are placed in our Orthodontic Observation Program, where their dental development is closely monitored until the ideal time for treatment begins.
What is the Orthodontic Observation Program?
This program monitors patients who are not yet ready for treatment, allowing us to track the eruption of permanent teeth and make timely recommendations. Regular visits every 6-8 months help determine the best starting point for treatment, ensuring optimal outcomes for your child’s dental health.
Additional Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
In addition to enhancing smiles, braces improve bite function, facilitate better teeth cleaning, prevent tooth wear, and promote the longevity of natural teeth over a lifetime.
Will early treatment eliminate the need for braces as an adolescent?
Early treatment addresses significant issues, prevents more severe problems, and simplifies future treatment phases. However, once all permanent teeth have erupted, comprehensive braces (Phase II) during the teen years may still be required to achieve final alignment.
Should we continue seeing our family dentist during orthodontic treatment?
Patients with braces require diligent oral hygiene. Regular visits to your family dentist for check-ups and cleanings every 6 months are essential to maintaining optimal dental health during orthodontic treatment.
