When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?
Published June 30, 2023Orthodontic treatment focuses on aligning the teeth and correcting bite misalignments. Orthodontics can improve both the function and appearance of your child’s smile. But when is the right time to take your child to see an orthodontist in Pflugerville?
Early Orthodontic Evaluation: The Importance of Timing
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. By this time, your child should have several permanent teeth starting to come in.
Even with just a few permanent teeth, a qualified orthodontist can identify potential issues with your child’s smile that may require treatment. Sometimes dental issues like crossbites, severe crowding, or underbites may already be evident. Early intervention may be beneficial in helping prevent more serious problems in the future.
Planning Orthodontic Treatment
If you’re concerned about whether or not orthodontic treatment will be necessary after your child’s first visit, you can relax knowing that isn’t always the case. If orthodontic treatment is recommended, it will usually take place in two phases.
Phase one treatment generally involves a mild treatment like a retainer or other appliance to guide teeth. Phase two treatment uses other orthodontic appliances like metal braces or Invisalign®. Phase two treatment is often started around ages 10 to 14.
Schedule a Consultation with Our Pflugerville Orthodontist
Early evaluation by an orthodontist can identify potential dental issues and help you plan for the right time to ensure efficient and effective treatment. If your child is around 7 years old or if they are older but haven’t ever had an orthodontic consultation, scheduling an appointment is the best way to determine their current needs and predict future issues with their smile’s alignment. At Pearls Orthodontics, we offer comprehensive orthodontic services. Dr. Ortiz can assess your child’s dental development and provide guidance on a treatment plan. Contact us today!
Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0
Categorised in: Orthodontic FAQ
