Early Interceptive Orthodontics
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children receive an orthodontic evaluation no later than 7 years of age. Sometimes, problems need to be identified even earlier than this. It is very important that your child receive an evaluation by an orthodontist or a pediatric dentist or general dentist trained in the correction of orthodontic abnormalities.
Early identification and treatment of orthodontic problems can prevent more serious problems later in life. In addition, there are some conditions that are much easier to correct as the childs mouth and jaws are actively growing. Early treatment can sometimes achieve results that are not possible after the jaws have grown.
Early treatment can include:
- correcting harmful habits
- protecting protruded teeth from injury
- monitoring and guiding jaw growth
- guiding permanent teeth into the correct
position
- creating a more pleasing arrangement of the
teeth, lips and face to improve the
patients appearance and dental health
Not all orthodontic problems require full braces:
Some improvements and treatment can be performed using partial braces or relatively inexpensive appliances.
For more information, visit the American Association of Orthodontists web page at www.braces.org and search for Problems to watch for in growing children . Or, talk to your childs dentist.
