Options for Early Orthodontic Treatments

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should be screened at age seven to determine whether they need braces. Depending on the type and severity of bite irregularities children have, parents may be given a variety of recommendations for treatment.

 

Children who are found to need orthodontics may require restorative treatment or extraction of overcrowded teeth before beginning early treatment. Kids may be given fixed braces to correct common bite irregularities, such as overcrowding, overbite, and underbite. Additional appliances, such as palate expanders, may be used to more broadly improve the structure of the teeth and jaws. When children have more extensive treatment requirements, they may benefit from two-phase treatment. This includes a first phase around age seven and a second phase beginning a few years later during adolescence. With two-phase treatment, our orthodontist can promote faster, more permanent results by working with the natural development of the jaws and teeth.

 

Advantages of early orthodontics are numerous and include not only aesthetic enhancement, which supports healthy self-esteem, but also improved comfort, better digestion, and increased resistance against oral health problems throughout life. To learn more about early orthodontic treatment options and eligibility, parents can schedule a consultation with our orthodontist.