A child’s first visit to an orthodontist could take place as early as age six
The Orthodontic Society of Ireland recommends that a child’s first visit to an orthodontist takes place no later then the age of nine if an orthodontic problem is detected. Depending on the type of problem this first visit could take place as early as age six. Sometimes malocclusions are present behind seemingly acceptable smiles. And while treatment may not be started until later years, early examination allows us at Browne Orthodontics to detect and evaluate problems and plan appropriate treatment at the optimum time. In some cases early treatment may be initiated to prevent serious problems from developing. This early intervention may make treatment at a later stage shorter and less complicated.
Why your child should get an orthodontic check up no later than age 9?
- We can spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth while some baby teeth are still present.
- While your child’s teeth may appear to be straight there could be a problem that only an orthodontist can detect.
- The check up may reveal that your child’s bite is fine. Or we may identify a developing problem but recommend monitoring the child’s growth and development. Then, if indicated, we can begin treatment at the appropriate time for the child. In other cases, Michelle might find a problem that can benefit from early treatment.
- Early treatment may prevent more serious problems from developing and may make treatment at a later stage shorter and less complicated.
- In some cases we may be able to achieve results that may not be possible once the face and jaws finish growing. Early treatment may give your orthodontist the chance to:
- Guide jaw growth
- Lower the risk of trauma to front teeth
- Correct harmful oral habits
- Through an orthodontic evaluation at an early age, you will be giving your child the best opportunity for a healthier and more beautiful smile. Because patients differ in both physiological development and treatment needs, our goal is to provide each patient with the most appropriate treatment at the most appropriate time.
Some early warning signs that may indicate your child should see an orthodontist:
- Crowded or misplaced teeth
- Protrusion (overjet)
- Deep bite (overbite)
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Thumb and finger sucking
- Speech difficulty
- Difficulty in chewing or biting
- Grinding or clenching of teeth
- Jaws that shift or make sounds
- Missing teeth
- Signs of enamel wear
