What Age Should a Child Go to an Orthodontist?

As a parent, you naturally want the best for your child, and that includes their oral health. The question of when a child should first visit an orthodontist is one that many parents grapple with. While every child is unique, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic check-up at age seven. But why this specific age, you might ask? Let's delve into the reasons.

The Importance of Early Orthodontic Evaluation

Early orthodontic evaluation offers both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. This early intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal. 

• Early identification of dental issues: By age seven, most children have a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth, making it easier for the orthodontist to diagnose and correct tooth and jaw problems sooner and without surgery.
• Preventative measures: Early evaluation provides the opportunity to guide jaw growth, correct harmful oral habits, lower the risk of trauma to protruded front teeth, guide permanent teeth into a more favorable position, and create a more pleasing arrangement of teeth, lips, and face.

Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment

Early orthodontic treatment in Kyle, TX is also known as interceptive treatment or Phase I treatment. It begins before all the permanent teeth have erupted, and it can be beneficial in guiding dental growth and development. 

• Improved oral health: Early treatment can prevent more severe problems from developing and may make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated.
• Aesthetic benefits: With early treatment, orthodontists can also regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches, gain space for permanent teeth, avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions, reduce the likelihood of impacted permanent teeth, and correct thumb-sucking and other detrimental oral habits.

The Role of Parents in Early Orthodontic Care

As a parent, you play a crucial role in your child's dental health. Regular check-ups and good dental hygiene can help ensure your child's teeth and gums are healthy. 

Regular dental check-ups: Regular dental visits can help your child's dentist keep track of your child's oral development and spot any issues that may require orthodontic intervention.

Good dental hygiene: Teaching your child the importance of brushing and flossing can help prevent dental issues, including those that might require orthodontic treatment.

What to Expect from the First Orthodontic Visit

At the first visit, the orthodontist will conduct a thorough examination of your child's teeth, mouth, and jaw. This examination often includes taking X-rays to understand the position of the teeth and their prospective growth pattern better.

Comprehensive examination: The orthodontist will look for a range of issues, including crowding, crossbite, gaps between teeth, and the relationship between the upper and lower jaw.

Discussion of treatment options: If the orthodontist identifies any issues, they will discuss these with you and outline potential treatment options.

Dr. Tessler at Kyle Orthodontics in Kyle, TX

If you're in the Kyle, TX area, and you're looking for an experienced and caring orthodontist for your child, Dr. Tessler at Kyle Orthodontics is here to help. Our team is dedicated to providing the highest quality orthodontic care in a warm, welcoming environment. We believe in the importance of patient education and promise to speak candidly about your treatment options and progress. 

Don't wait until your child experiences dental issues. Early orthodontic evaluation can save you time, money, and prevent future oral health issues. Give us a call at (512) 262-7895 to schedule your child's first orthodontic check-up today.