Early Orthodontic Treatment

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have an orthodontic evaluation no later than age seven. Most children do not require treatment at this age, but for those who do, it is critical in order to prevent and correct severe dental and skeletal problems. Early treatment utilizes expanders, limited braces and other appliances to correct specific dental anomalies and guide the growth of the jaws in order to:

• Plan for and guide the emergence of the permanent teeth
• Minimize the risks of trauma to protruded teeth
• Correct harmful habits such as thumb or finger sucking
• Reduce the likelihood of impacted permanent teeth
• Preserve or gain space for newly erupting permanent teeth

Some signs or habits that may indicate the need for early treatment:

• Early or late loss of baby teeth
• Thumb or finger sucking
• Crowding or misplaced teeth
• Biting of the cheek or roof of the mouth
• Jaws and teeth that are out of proportion with the rest of the face

An early phase of orthodontics usually requires a short second phase of treatment upon the eruption of the remaining permanent teeth.

If you have any other questions or would like to make an appointment or arrange a consultation, call (858) 755-4223 or request an appointment online.