An orthodontist can improve a smile at any age however, there is an optimal time to begin treatment. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the first orthodontic evaluation should take place at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. At this age orthodontic treatment might not be necessary but a thorough examination can determine when orthodontic treatment should begin if it is deemed necessary.
Early Evaluation is Important for the Monitoring of Dental Growth
Most of us think of pre-teens or teenagers when we think of orthodontics but there are many very good reasons for a younger child to receive an orthodontic evaluation. When a child is young, an orthodontist can identify subtle problems with jaw growth and new teeth while some baby teeth are still present.
The initial orthodontic evaluation could reveal that your child has a fine bite. Or, a developing problem could be identified wherein the orthodontist recommends that your child’s growth and development requires monitoring. Then and if necessary, orthodontic treatment can begin at an appropriate time. In other circumstances the orthodontist may discover a problem that can benefit from early treatment. If for instance, the orthodontist finds that your child has a bite problem, it can be corrected early when your child is still growing wherein he or she may only need to wear an orthodontic appliance rather than full braces at an older age. Early orthodontic evaluations are even more important for girls because they stop growing earlier than boys of the same age.
Your Child’s Smile is Their Greeting to the World
Not everyone is born with beautiful teeth and a perfect smile. Misaligned teeth or spaces between teeth can cause embarrassment and low self-esteem. Plus, improperly aligned teeth and jaws can lead to a host of sometimes painful dental disorders. However, orthodontic treatment can correct these problems and help your child obtain a healthy, beautiful smile that will last a lifetime.
What Causes Orthodontic Problems?
The majority of orthodontic problems are inherited. Some common inherited problems are crowded teeth, spaces between teeth, protrusions, extra or missing teeth and jaw growth problems. Other orthodontic problems can be caused by thumb or finger sucking, dental disease, accidents and the early loss of baby teeth. Without orthodontic treatment, many problems worsen which can result in the need for additional dental care later in life.
At Manley Orthodontics, we know what a tremendous difference in health and self-esteem a beautiful smile can make. This is why we urge parents to have their children evaluated early and why we offer a variety of treatment options. We have two convenient office locations in Issaquah and Sammamish, Washington and also serve patients living in the surrounding areas. We even offer a discount to patients who have family members who are patients of ours. Through an early orthodontic evaluation, you will be providing your child with the best opportunity to have a healthy and beautiful smile.
Early treatment gives Dr. Manley the chance to guide jaw growth, lower the risk of trauma due to protruding front teeth, correct harmful oral habits, improve the way the lips meet and improve your child’s appearance and self-esteem.
Schedule an Appointment for Your Child
If you would like to set up an initial evaluation for your child we ask that you fill out and submit the ‘Appointment Request’ form on our website. Also, please download, print and complete the ‘Child New Patient’ form and the ‘Dental Health History’ form and bring them with you.
We are always excited to meet new patients in our Issaquah and Sammamish, WA orthodontic offices! Your child will be treated with friendly, personalized care and attention that he/she deserves.