The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends children should be examined by an orthodontist at around the age of seven
Orthodontic problems are usually apparent by the age of seven, when most of the adult front teeth have come through. To create a smile that lasts a lifetime, children need teeth that are straight and jaws that are aligned properly. This all begins with the baby teeth; the way they are aligned, when and how they fall out, and how much room they allow or don’t allow for the emergence of permanent adult teeth.
What is Children’s Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a type of dental treatment that corrects tooth and jaw positioning issues. The goal of orthodontic treatment is to straighten teeth in such a way that the upper and lower sets of teeth meet in perfect alignment.
Children’s orthodontics is dedicated to the teeth straightening treatment and evaluation for young kids. The main difference between children’s orthodontics and adult orthodontics is the treatment protocols are aimed at prevention rather than treatment.
Children’s orthodontics can fix problems by:
• Creating room for erupting teeth to prevent crowding
• Creating symmetry by manipulating jaw and facial bone growth
• Lessening the need for tooth removal due to crowding
• Reducing the risk of injury to protruding front teeth, gums and face
• Decreasing the timeframe for braces
What are the benefits of Early Orthodontic Intervention?
Prevention is always better than the cure and there are many advantages of receiving orthodontic treatment early in life. A child’s jaw and teeth are still growing which makes it easier for orthodontists to correct abnormalities.
Early treatment may prevent more serious problems from developing and it can make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated. Early treatment could also accomplish results that aren’t possible once the face and jaws have stopped growing. Visiting an orthodontist does not necessarily mean treatment will start immediately.
Getting a professional opinion early ensures treatment will begin at the optimal age and some early intervention may be carried out by your orthodontist to minimise upcoming issues. In most cases, orthodontic treatment is commenced as soon as the last baby tooth has been shed which is usually in the early teens. In some cases, it’s an advantage to start just before the last baby teeth are shed.
Saacks Orthodontics can help straighten your teeth without the bother of braces
The goal of Dr Saacks at Saacks Orthodontics is to help your child achieve a straight and healthy smile they will have for a lifetime. Whilst early intervention can be beneficial, Dr Saacks will always recommend treatment based on individual needs, not just a standard solution.
If you are a parent considering orthodontics treatment for your child, and want more information please contact Saacks Orthodontics today and arrange a free consultation.
