Early Orthodontic Care for Children Over The Age Of 7

As a parent, you want the best for your child's health and happiness, including their smile. While most orthodontic treatments are often associated with teenagers, did you know early intervention plays a massive role in ensuring your child's dental development stays on track? Let's investigate why early orthodontic evaluation and treatment are so important.

What Are the Benefits of Early Orthodontic Evaluation?

This proactive approach can bring a sense of relief to parents, knowing they are preventing future dental issues for their children.

• Preventing Future Issues: By age 7, most children have enough permanent teeth for an orthodontist to identify potential problems like overcrowding, cross bites, and jaw misalignment. Early treatment can address these issues before they get worse, potentially reducing the need for more extensive treatment later.

• Improved Oral Well-being: Straighter teeth make it easier to brush and floss, but what's not mentioned nearly enough is how they reduce the risk of cavities, giving those sugar bugs a severe run for their money.

• Enhanced Self-Esteem: Addressing orthodontic issues early in life addresses any dental issues head-on, prevents teasing or bullying, and boosts a child's confidence by improving their smile and social connections.

• Improved Speech and Chewing: Malocclusions (improper bites) can sometimes affect speech development and chewing ability. Early treatment can help rectify these issues and promote proper oral function.

• Jaw Growth Guidance: Early treatment can help guide jaw growth and development, potentially reducing the need for more invasive procedures later on.

Signs Your Child May Need Early Orthodontic Evaluation

• Early or late loss of baby teeth

• Difficulty chewing or biting

• Mouth breathing

• Thumb-sucking or finger sucking

• Crowded, misplaced, or blocked-out teeth   

• Jaws that shift or make sounds

• Speech difficulties

• Biting of the cheek or snagging the roof of their mouth

• Teeth that don't meet in alignment

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Investing in Your Child's Future Smile

Early orthodontic evaluation doesn't always mean immediate treatment. Sometimes, it's simply about monitoring your child's development and intervening at the optimal time. This flexibility can reassure parents that they are not pressured to make immediate decisions but can trust the process and the professional guidance of Dr. Kirk Bartlett.

Ready to give your child the gift of a healthy, confident smile? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Kirk Bartlett today to evaluate your orthodontic treatment. A personalized treatment plan will set your child up for a lifetime of big, bright, and beautiful pearly white smiles.