Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for teenagers and adults — bringing your child in for an early evaluation can help prevent more invasive treatment down the road! Early orthodontic evaluations are recommended for children before the age of 7, as this is the easiest time to treat orthodontic problems before the mouth grows. Our orthodontist in Chapel Hill explains more below.
Why Early Treatment?
You might not think that early treatment is necessary, or that your child can wait until they are older to be evaluated for braces. However, orthodontic treatment is easier, faster, and more effective when your child is younger, as the palate (roof of the mouth) has not yet fused — this means it is more pliable. Additionally, treating issues early can prevent more serious dental and orthodontic problems down the road, saving you time and money.
Issues We Can Detect
Speech problems, difficulty chewing, and abnormal bite can all be detected during an early evaluation. Other common conditions include:
- Underbite, where the upper teeth sit inside the arch of the lower teeth
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Crossbite, where the upper teeth fit behind your lower teeth
- Buck teeth — front teeth that stick out
- Misaligned teeth
- Abnormal jaw or facial growth
These issues can cause more serious problems in adulthood, so it is preferable to handle them when they are easier to deal with!
Early Treatment Options
Options for bite problems, abnormal jaw growth, or misalignment include spacers, headgear, braces, and palatal expanders. Some parents put off their child’s first orthodontic visit due to cost. However, many parents frequently find that their child doesn’t need treatment at the time, or that treatment can wait until they are a bit older. You can plan for any orthodontic treatment that may be necessary in the future this way and be fully informed about your child’s growth!
Contact Our Orthodontist in Chapel Hill Today To Learn More!
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about retainers and other topics related to orthodontic treatment, feel free to contact Wilson Orthodontics, with a convenient orthodontic office in Chapel Hill by calling 919.371.0384.