There are several ways that kids can benefit from seeing an orthodontist at an early age. But it’s important to recognize that early evaluation isn’t necessarily followed by early treatment; in most cases, if orthodontic work is needed, we simply monitor your child’s growth patterns until we see that it’s time for treatment to begin. This gives us an opportunity to get the best results in the most efficient way, and to help prevent future problems.
Although every child’s development is different, in most kids the first adult molars have typically started to emerge by around age six. This, along with other developmental markers, lets us get a handle on the basic alignment of the teeth, from front to back and side to side. It may also be possible at this point to determine whether there is adequate room in the mouth for all of the permanent teeth — and, if not, to take action.
WHEN EARLIER TREATMENT IS BETTER
Treatment for common orthodontic problems typically begins around age 9-14, when all of the baby teeth are gone and many of the permanent ones are in place. But there are some conditions that are much easier to treat if they’re caught at an early age, when a child’s natural growth processes are going full speed ahead.
SEVERE CROSSBITE
SEVERE CROSSBITE
This is a condition where the upper teeth close inside the lower teeth. To treat this problem, a device called a palatal expander can be used, which gradually and painlessly widens the upper jaw; it’s especially effective when the jaw itself hasn’t fully developed. If we wait too long, a more complicated treatment — or even oral surgery — might be required to correct the problem.
SEVERE CROWDING
SEVERE CROWDING
This occurs when the jaws are too small to accommodate all of the permanent teeth. Either palatal expansion or tooth extraction may be recommended at this point, to help the adult teeth erupt (emerge from below the gums) properly. Even if braces are required later, the treatment time will likely be shorter and less complicated.
RESOLVING OTHER PROBLEMS
RESOLVING OTHER PROBLEMS
- Protruding Teeth: Leads to chipping and fractures
- Severe Underbite: Can result in serious bite problems
- Milk
Orthodontic appliances, including braces and headgear, can be successfully used to correct these problems at this stage, when the child’s development is in full swing, thereby increasing the chances that surgery can be avoided.
CORRECTING BAD HABITS
Treatment for common orthodontic problems typically begins around age 9-14, when all of the baby teeth are gone and many of the permanent ones are in place. But there are some conditions that are much easier to treat if they’re caught at an early age, when a child’s natural growth processes are going full speed ahead.
Thumb Sucking
Thumb Sucking
Can lead to the orthodontic problem called “open bite,” and may impair speech.
Tongue Thrusting
Tongue Thrusting
Can also lead to open bite.
Mouth Breathing
Mouth Breathing
May cause the upper and lower jaw to grow abnormally, which can lead to serious orthodontic problems.
Various orthodontic treatments are available to help correct these parafunctional habits — and the sooner they’re taken care of, the less damage they may cause. But these potential problems aren’t always easy to recognize. That’s one more reason why you should bring your child in for an early orthodontic screening.
INVISALIGN FIRST
As a child grows, their smile grows with them. And even with baby teeth, it may be the perfect time for children ages 6 to 10 to start orthodontic treatment. This is known as Phase 1 treatment. At this stage, orthodontists can see issues that may need early treatment to address a developing problem.
Invisalign First clear aligner treatment is designed for predictable results and a positive experience while addressing the unique needs of growing children.
TREATS A BROAD RANGE
TREATS A BROAD RANGE
Designed to treat a broad range of teeth straightening issues in growing children, from simple to complex, including crowding, spacing, and narrow dental arches.
REMOVEABLE
REMOVEABLE
Removable for easy hygiene, making it easier for growing children to brush and floss.
DESIGNED FOR COMFORT
DESIGNED FOR COMFORT
Designed for comfort – which means no discomfort from rubbing brackets or poking wires.
Visit Invisalign.com for more information.