The American Association of Orthodontists recommends bringing your child to an orthodontist for a bite evaluation before they reach seven. Early detection of issues with the alignment of a child’s teeth or jaw makes it easier to correct them. The child’s jaw and facial structures are still developing at this point, making it easier to manipulate them with orthodontic appliances.
Let us take a look at the answers to some of the questions you might have about the importance of getting your child to an orthodontist early on:
Children should have gone in for their first orthodontic evaluation by the time they reach age seven. At this point, their bite should be developed enough to notice any abnormalities. The severity of any issues detected often determines if treatment proceeds immediately. In some cases, the orthodontist might opt to wait until the child reaches their teenage years before starting treatments.
The type of orthodontic issues the child is dealing with and their severity often determines how an orthodontist addresses them. One of the most common orthodontic issues children develop is overcrowding caused by the premature loss of baby teeth. Crowding can also be caused by the child’s jaw not being wide enough for all their teeth.
Appliances like space maintainers can be used to preserve the space left by prematurely lost baby teeth, preventing alignment issues that could be caused by it. Devices like expanders can be used to push the child’s palate outward, creating more space on their jaw for their teeth.
Braces might be the most commonly used orthodontic device for children. Clear aligners can be used to treat many of the issues addressed with braces, but children often aren’t responsible enough to keep up with them until they reach their teenage years.
Most orthodontic issues can be fixed within 12 to 36 months. The more severe the child’s orthodontic issues are, the longer they will have to put up with an appliance. Straightening a child’s teeth is a process that must be done gradually and gently. Trying to shorten treatment times by putting excessive forces on a patient’s teeth can damage teeth roots.
Yes, retainers ensure the patient’s teeth stay in their new position. Moving a person’s teeth to an improved alignment is only half of the equation. Their teeth still need time to bond with bone structures in their new position, so it becomes their permanent alignment. Most children only have to wear a retainer for a couple of years to complete their treatment.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Orthodontist in Tustin, CA
Think your child has developed bite issues? Call or visit our Tustin clinic to schedule an appointment with our orthodontist.
Request an appointment or call FitSmiles Orthodontics at 714-782-0217 for an appointment in our Tustin office.
When trying to find an orthodontist online, there are several factors to consider to conduct a thorough and successful search. No one should compromise on this task, as an orthodontist plays a major role in treating misaligned teeth and biting issues, which are beneficial to one’s overall oral health. Changing orthodontists down the road can…
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle includes taking care of one’s teeth, but many people may find it difficult to find an orthodontist whose office hours and available services match a busy everyday schedule. Despite working long hours, caring for children full time, or having many daily commitments, people can still choose an orthodontist to help them…
Properly aligned teeth boost confidence in your smile and support good oral health. Finding an orthodontist with the skill set and experience you need is important. If you are still trying to figure out where to start, we have some advice to make your search easier. Rather than spending hours hunting for an orthodontist, you…