Orthodontics plays a vital role in your child’s dental health. Yet, one of the most common questions dentists get asked is: When should my child see an orthodontist?
If you’re wondering when to take your child to an orthodontist, start with a check-up at Wren Street Dental in Mission, BC. Our team can help you determine when and how to get orthodontic treatments for your little ones. Get started with Dr. Amol Shergill today by calling (604) 820-8702!
While many parents associate orthodontic visits with the teenage years, the optimal timing for an initial consultation can vary from child to child. In this blog post, we explore the factors that indicate when your child should see an orthodontist.
Age Matters, but It’s Not Everything
While it’s common to see teens and young adults with orthodontia, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) highly recommends early intervention. In fact, they recommend that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. This early assessment allows orthodontists to identify potential issues and plan for future treatment if necessary.
Early Intervention for Long-Term Benefits
An early orthodontic evaluation doesn’t always lead to immediate treatment. In many cases, it serves as a proactive measure to monitor the development of a child’s teeth and jaw. Detecting problems early on can enable orthodontists to intervene at the right time, preventing more severe issues from arising later.
Identifying Common Orthodontic Issues
Certain signs may indicate that your child needs orthodontic attention sooner rather than later. These include:
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing
- Thumb sucking beyond the age of five
- Speech difficulties
- Crowded or misplaced teeth
If you notice any of these signs, consult with an orthodontist promptly.
The Importance of Bite Evaluation
Proper bite alignment is crucial for child development and overall oral health. Malocclusions (such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites) can impact not only the appearance of your child’s smile but also their ability to chew and speak easily and properly. Addressing these issues early can prevent more complicated treatments in the future.
Guiding Tooth Eruption
Orthodontists can play a key role in guiding the eruption of permanent teeth. Through early intervention, they can help ensure that teeth come in straight and properly aligned. This guidance reduces the likelihood of overcrowding and other alignment issues.
Braces Timing
While not all children will require braces, those who do may benefit from wearing them at an optimal age. The teenage years remain a common period for braces, but advancements in orthodontic technology have introduced alternatives (like Invisalign®) for certain cases. An orthodontist can recommend the most suitable option based on your child’s specific needs.
Orthodontist in Mission, BC
The question of when your child should see an orthodontist doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. However, early evaluation can provide valuable insights into your child’s dental development. If you want to explore orthodontic treatments for your child, contact Dr. Shergill at Wren Street Dental in Mission, BC, today. You can reach us at (604) 820-8702, or you can easily request appointments online here anytime!
