The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that every child see an orthodontist by 7 years old. Although your child still has many baby teeth, this allows the orthodontist to evaluate for potential problems. Sometimes dental and/or skeletal growth and development intervention is needed before the loss of all baby teeth. Approximately 20% of the population benefits from early orthodontic treatment (aka. Phase I treatment).
What are some early problems?
- Posterior crossbite – top back teeth narrower than the bottom
- Underbites (aka Anterior crossbite – bottom front teeth ahead of the top)
- Very crowded teeth
- Skeletal growth imbalances
- Finger or tongue habits
- Poor eruption pattern of adult teeth
- Extra or missing teeth
Signs your Child May Benefit from Early Orthodontics
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty chewing
- Mouth breathing
- Habits – thumb sucking or tongue thrust
Some problems require early intervention due to an inability to correct at a later age and/or to prevent developing more serious problems. Early orthodontic intervention may help you avoid more costly and more invasive treatment later. Scheduling a complimentary consultation with Hub City Orthodontics will allow Dr. Timothy Wilson and Dr. Dana Kiefer to assess your child’s need. Contact us at (301)733-5230 for a FREE consultation.
