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EARLY TREATMENT
Children should visit the orthodontist by the age of seven, according to the American Association of Orthodontists. Bite and alignment issues are easier to correct if detected and treated early. Early orthodontic treatment is referred to as Phase One treatment. This treatment addresses issues with the jaws and teeth. Sometimes, this completely fixes the bite or alignment problem. However, other times, children must move to Phase Two treatment in adolescence. By going through Phase One treatment first, Phase Two treatment is shorter.
PHASE ONE TREATMENT
When children are young, their jaw structures aren’t set in place. However, the orthodontist can look at the current structure to determine how it will grow. Then the orthodontist can treat issues with jaw development, shaping it, so it grows correctly. This allows the orthodontist to guide the bite into place.
Early treatment also:
- Reduces the risk of crowded or impacted permanent teeth
- Protects protruded teeth from trauma
- Increases the width of dental arches
- Corrects poor habits that can damage teeth and jaws
- Improves the look of the teeth
- Aids in speech development
WHAT’S INVOLVED IN EARLY ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT
Orthodontists use several tools to aid in early orthodontic treatment. Palatal expanders are used to widen the jaw. This treatment is recommended if the child has a severe crossbite or overcrowding. Braces and headgear can also be used during early treatment. Protruding teeth and underbites benefit from this treatment. The treatment protects the teeth while improving the child’s self-esteem.
The orthodontist will also help your child correct bad habits, such as thumb sucking and mouth breathing. Many parents don’t realize that mouth breathing can impede jaw growth. Often, children begin this behavior out of necessity, but eventually, it becomes a dangerous habit.
DOES YOUR CHILD NEED EARLY TREATMENT?
You should take your child to the orthodontist by the age of seven. However, you can also look for signs that your child needs early orthodontic treatment. Signs include:
- Losing baby teeth too early or too late
- Crowded teeth
- Chewing or biting problems
- Protruding teeth
- Jaws that pop or shift
- Jaws and teeth that look too large or too small
GET A FREE CONSULTATION
Dr. Kerr provides free consultations for early treatment. Visit us to see if your child is a good candidate for early orthodontic treatment. If so, treatment can provide long-term benefits.