Q: When should your child’s first orthodontic check-up be?
A: The American Association of Orthodontists recommends the first orthodontic check-up should be no later than age 7. An orthodontic examination at this age can detect subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth. This is important because some orthodontic problems are easier to correct if they’re found early.
Q: What are the advantages of early orthodontic treatment?
A: Some advantages include: correct harmful oral habits, guide permanent teeth in a more favorable position, guide jaw growth and reduce or eliminate the need for jaw surgery, simplify and shorten treatment time for definitive orthodontic treatment, improve speech development, preserve or gain space for erupting permanent teeth.
Q: How do I know if my child needs orthodontic attention?
A: Major gaps between teeth or teeth that are crowded, difficulty in chewing or biting, early or late loss of baby teeth, an unbalanced facial appearance, jaws that are too far forward or too far back, upper and lower teeth that don’t meet or meet in an abnormal way.
Q: What are some of the long-term benefits of orthodontics?
A: Braces can enhance facial appearance, which can improve their self-esteem and confidence, by putting teeth into proper alignment you are improving oral health which can prevent gum disease or tooth decay.
