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Early Orthodontic Treatment
​What is the right age to
see an orthodontist?
Would you be surprised to hear that the AAO, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends seeing an orthodontist for the first time at the age of 7?
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At age 7, baby teeth are starting to be replaced with permanent teeth and it's a great time to check for potential problems related to:
Crowding
jaw misalignment
Bite Issues
Facial Imbalance
social concerns
thumb or finger habits
It's a common misconception that orthodontic treatment should wait until all permanent teeth have erupted.
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By consulting with an orthodontist around age 7, you can proactively address potential issues like crowding, spacing, or misaligned bites. Early orthodontic treatment, sometimes called "interceptive" or "phase 1" treatment, isn't about putting your child in full braces right away. It's a more gentle approach that focuses on addressing minor issues before they become major problems. Plus, a straighter smile can boost your child's self-confidence and overall well-being!​​​​​​​
If your child needs early orthodontic treatment, we call this "Phase 1" treatment. During Phase 1, we focus on realigning or expanding the jawbone structure to create more space for their permanent teeth. Once the jawbone is properly positioned, we can move on to Phase 2, which focuses on correcting the bite and aligning the teeth. Many children who benefit from Phase 1 treatment will also need Phase 2 treatment to complete their orthodontic journey.
Most kids don't need early orthodontic treatment.
While it's great to get a baseline assessment around age 7, only a small percentage of kids actually need treatment before most of their adult teeth come in. Dr. Borello and Dr. Little believe that an early check-up is a fantastic way to monitor your child's dental development and plan for the future.
let talk about the Benefits
of phase 1 braces
improved oral health
Early orthodontic treatment can significantly improve oral health by making teeth easier to clean. Straight teeth have fewer nooks and crannies where food particles and plaque can accumulate, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Additionally, proper alignment prevents uneven wear on teeth, leading to healthier, longer-lasting teeth.
Correcting bad habits
Harmful habits like thumb-sucking and tongue thrusting can lead to misaligned teeth and jaw problems. Early orthodontic treatment can help break these habits by using specialized appliances or techniques to discourage their practice. By addressing these issues early on, we can prevent more significant problems from developing.
jaw development
Early orthodontic treatment can guide the growth of the jaw to ensure proper alignment and prevent future problems. By identifying and addressing potential issues early on, orthodontists can often avoid more invasive procedures, such as jaw surgery, later in life.
Improved Speech
and Chewing
Straight teeth and a well-aligned jaw can improve speech clarity and chewing efficiency. By addressing issues like misalignment and overcrowding, orthodontists can help children develop clear speech patterns and effective chewing habits.
Enhanced Self-Esteem and Confidence
A straight, healthy smile can boost a child's self-esteem and confidence. Early orthodontic treatment can address issues that may lead to self-consciousness, such as crooked teeth or an underbite, allowing children to feel more confident in their appearance.
reducing Invasive Treatment Later
Early orthodontic treatment can often prevent the need for more invasive procedures, such as tooth extractions or jaw surgery, later in life. By addressing issues early on, orthodontists can guide tooth and jaw development, reducing the need for more drastic interventions.