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Children's Orthodontics

Is Early Orthodontic Treatment for Children Necessary?

Parents are usually relieved to learn that early orthodontics at Wilson Orthodontics is not about getting braces. It’s about setting your child up for a lifetime of optimal oral health, which is affected by the proper alignment and symmetry of their smile, jaw, and face. Your child’s early evaluation with our pediatric orthodontist in Durham, Oxford, and surrounding areas in NC, is not simply for aesthetics but will help guide the growth and development of their jaw and teeth – preventing more serious problems later.

When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that your child’s initial orthodontic evaluation occur by age 7 – the time when adult teeth are erupting. At Wilson Orthodontics, we evaluate erupting teeth to detect issues such as a possible overbite, open bite, crowding, or gummy smiles. We can tell if your child will benefit from early treatment, as many potential problems may not be visibly apparent until prevention is too late. Beginning treatment at this optimal time not only ensures the greatest result but also means less time and expense down the road.

Not sure if your child would benefit from an orthodontic evaluation? We are here to answer any questions you may have about the process!

Signs That Your Child Needs an Orthodontic Assessment

Treatment at this early stage may not even be necessary. However, it is especially important to schedule a screening with our orthodontist if you notice any of the following conditions in your child:

  • Crowded or misplaced teeth
  • Difficulty in chewing or biting food
  • Early loss of baby teeth
  • Mouth breathing
  • Finger or thumb sucking
  • Jaws that “pop” when opening and closing
  • Misaligned teeth that close abnormally or without touching
  • Jaws and teeth that are not in proportion to the rest of the face

What Is the Benefit of Early Treatment?

While parents don’t need to rush into obtaining braces for their young children, some oral health issues can be avoided with early screening and treatment, including:

  • Open bites – when the upper and lower teeth are unable to physically touch each other when the jaws are closed
  • Crossbites – when the two rows of teeth don’t meet correctly. A misaligned bite can cause tooth decay, gum disease, stress on the jaw muscles, headaches, and more
  • Speech impediments
  • Injury to protruding teeth

Our Process

When your child comes in for their complimentary appointment, our team will perform a thorough evaluation of their smile and bite. This will allow our experts to determine which type of treatment will be best suited to their needs. We will also take the time to educate you and your child on what to expect from treatment, plus answer any questions you may have prior to beginning treatment.

Schedule an Appointment With Our Pediatric Orthodontist in Durham & Oxford, NC

To experience our award-winning orthodontic care, schedule your Complimentary New Patient Consultation today by calling (919) 371-0384 to reach either of our offices. You may also use our convenient online form. Your appointment includes the following:

  • Discuss Your Goals
  • Digital X-Rays
  • Complete Exam
  • Discover Your Options
  • Get Started

During your appointment, we will take the time to answer all your questions about our advanced treatments and technology, our flexible payment options, and anything else you may want to know about us!

Children's Orthodontics
Children's Orthodontics Learn More
Invisalign®
Invisalign® Learn More
Accelerated Treatment
Accelerated Treatment Learn More
Most Insurances Accepted
Adult Orthodontics Learn More
My experience with Wilson Orthodontic was awesome!! I love the way they treat their customers! —Roxibel R.
The reviews listed are from actual patients of Wilson Orthodontics. Individual results may vary. Reviews are not claimed to represent results for everyone.
What to Expect at Your First Visit Your No‐Pressure, Complimentary Consultation Includes
  • Discuss Your Goals
  • Digital X-Rays
  • Complete Exam
  • Discover Your Options
  • Free Copy of Dr. Wilson's Book
Durham Office 2900 Croasdaile Dr. Suite 3 Durham, NC 27705 Get Directions Hours Monday – Thursday 8:30am – 5pm
Oxford Office 912 College Street Oxford, NC 27565 Get Directions Hours Available By Appointment