When should my child have their first orthodontist visit?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child first visits an orthodontist at age seven
This may surprise you because orthodontic treatment is generally associated with adolescence. An early examination, however, is very important to ensure maximum dental health for your child.
Although age seven is the best time for the majority of children to have their first orthodontic examination, a visit at an even younger age is advisable if a particular problem has been noted by the parent, family dentist, or child’s physician.
Look Out for Warning Signs
The following early warning signs may indicate that your child should have an orthodontic examination as soon as possible:
- Difficulty in chewing
- Open-mouth breathing
- Thumb or finger sucking
- Overlapping or crowding of erupting permanent teeth
- Jaws that tend to click or pop
- A developing underbite, overbite, protruding front teeth, or other abnormal bite development
If you suspect you or your child has any of these problems, please call us at 201-342-3600 and speak with an orthodontist as soon as possible.
The benefits of early diagnosis
Dr. Mathew and Dr. Feiler discuss which orthodontic treatment best suits a patients needs
Orthodontists can improve smiles at any age, but there is usually a best age for treatment to begin. An early examination allows the orthodontic specialist to determine how and when a child’s particular problem should be treated for maximum improvement with the least time and expense. In some cases, early treatment achieves results that are unattainable once the face and jaws have finished growing.
Catch problems early with interceptive orthodontics!
In the past, children with bite problems could count on getting a full set of shiny braces after all their permanent teeth had come in; and perhaps wearing the braces into their late teens, too. Today, however, interceptive orthodontic treatment may begin as early as preschool.