At What Age Should Your Child See an Orthodontist?

Years ago children would not be seen by an orthodontist until they had lost all of their baby teeth, but over time that has been proven to not be the case. We know that an early assessment of your child’s teeth and jaw can make a big difference in the quality of their smile.  The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children should be evaluated by an orthodontist by the age of 7.

Why that age? Isn’t that too early? What can be done at that age? As you might be wondering, not every orthodontic problem can be treated at that young of an age, but most problems can be identified by that age.  By this age, most children have all four of the six-year molars and all four central incisors in place so if there are more or less teeth than this, there may be problems with crowding, missing or extra teeth.  Dr. Boggan can then identify any likely orthodontic problems and advise the parents on when, if any, treatment should begin. 

Early treatment is often referred to as two-phase treatment because most children (more than 90%) who have early treatment need further orthodontic treatment when the remaining permanent teeth are in place. At the age of 7 Dr. Boggan can tell how much space will be available for the teeth and whether or not the child’s teeth will come in correctly. Overcrowded teeth may force later-developing teeth to come out on top of or below the gum line. Protrusive front teeth, underbites, posterior crossbites and anterior crossbites can also be determined at the age of 7. 

Early treatment does not ensure that the child will not need braces later on, but addressing problems like this at an early age can ensure that there will be adequate room for remaining permanent teeth to grow in correctly. Although some may be able to wait until all the permanent teeth are in, interceptive treatment can make the final results faster, better, and give your children an additional three to four years of having a great smile at an age when their self-image is developing. Dr. Boggan recommends screening all young patients at the age of 7. If you child is at least 7 or older and have questions or concerns about orthodontic treatment, give us a call at Orthodontics South to set up a consultation appointment or visit us online at www.BracingTeam.com.