Early Prevention
Proactive is much better than reactive!
Early Orthodontic Assesment for Children
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist as early as age seven.
Most children do not need two phaes of treatment, but there are circamstances where certain issues can become much worse if not addressed at a youger age.
If early treatment (also known as Phase-One) is suggested, it typically begins around age eight or nine. Phase-Two will begin around age 11 or older. The goal of early treatment is to correct the growth of the jaw and certain bite problems, such as underbite. Early treatment also helps to make room for permanent teeth to come in properly, which lessens the chance of extractions in the future.
An early evaluation is complimentary and you do not need a referral from your dentist! Dr. Moore will continue to monitor your child (at no cost) until they are ready to begin treatment.
How to tell if your child may need early orthodontic treatment
- Early or late loss of baby teeth (your child should typically start losing teeth around age five, and will have all his or her permanent teeth in around age 13)
- Difficulty chewing and/or biting
- Mouth breathing or airway issues
- Your youngster continues to suck his or her thumb after age five
- Speech impediments
- Protruding teeth (the top teeth and the bottom teeth extend away from each other)
- Teeth that don’t come together in a normal manner or even at all
- Shifting of the jaw when your child opens or closes his or her mouth (crossbites)
- Crowded front teeth around age seven or eight
