As a parent, you want to ensure your child has a healthy and beautiful smile. One of the most common questions we hear at Weaver Orthodontics is, "When should my child get braces?" The answer depends on their individual dental development, but early orthodontic evaluations can help determine the best course of action for their long-term oral health.
What is Early Orthodontic Treatment?
Early orthodontic treatment, also known as Phase 1 Orthodontics, is designed for children who may need intervention before all their permanent teeth come in. This proactive approach can help guide jaw growth, correct bite issues, and create space for incoming teeth, reducing the need for more extensive treatment later.
When Should Kids See an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. At this age, an orthodontist can assess jaw growth, bite alignment, and the positioning of emerging permanent teeth.
Signs Your Child May Need Early Orthodontic Treatment
- Crowded or misplaced teeth
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use
- Mouth breathing
- Speech difficulties
- Underbite, overbite, or crossbite
- Jaws that shift or make sounds when moving
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment
- Guiding jaw growth to prevent misalignment
- Reducing the risk of impacted or ectopically erupting teeth
- Making room for permanent teeth to come in properly
- Improving facial symmetry and appearance
- Minimizing the need for tooth extractions or surgery
- Correcting harmful oral habits like thumb-sucking
What Happens If Early Treatment Isn’t Needed?
Dr. Weaver prides himself on being conservative when possible regarding Phase I treatment. This reduces the costs to your family regarding finances and interruptions to your child’s school. If your child’s evaluation shows that immediate treatment isn’t necessary or could be delayed, we will continue to monitor their growth with periodic checkups. Many children do not need Phase 1 treatment but may still require braces or other orthodontic care in their teenage years.
Comprehensive Treatment: Braces in the Teenage Years
For most children, full braces or Invisalign treatment begins between the ages of 11 and 14, when the permanent teeth have erupted. Early evaluations, while still in the mixed dentition (some baby teeth), help ensure that your child's orthodontic treatment is timed appropriately to provide the most efficient and effective result.
Schedule Your Child’s Orthodontic Evaluation Today
At Weaver Orthodontics, we believe that early detection leads to healthier smiles. If your child is around age seven or showing signs of orthodontic issues, schedule a consultation with Dr. Weaver to learn more about their treatment options. Our goal is to provide individualized care that leads to a lifetime of confident smiles!
