Early Ortho Treatment in Newark

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children get their first checkup with an orthodontist by age seven. We call this Phase One Orthodontic Treatment. Orthodontic treatment usually happens between six and nine years of age, when children begin to lose their baby teeth.

This may be surprising to some people, but early intervention can prevent the need for more dental treatment later on. When kids are older it can be harder to correct problems with jaw and tooth development.

When children suck their thumbs past age three or have baby teeth that are misaligned, their permanent teeth have a greater chance of misalignment. By age seven, a child’s bite is established and the amount of crowding can be determined.

Early orthodontic treatment can create space for permanent teeth and provide proper alignment. This treatment can include limited braces, headgear, special retainers, space maintainers, expansion appliances, and more.

A child may need to wear braces, or other appliance, between nine and eighteen months. Then the child is given retainers and is checked every four to six months while waiting for the rest of their permanent teeth to come in.

Early orthodontics takes advantage of a child’s growth period. This is a good time to treat severe problems, and not allow them to worsen as kids get older.

Phase one orthodontic treatments can solve crossbites or underbites, lower the risk of future surgeries, improve a child’s appearance, and increase their self-esteem. By acting today, their tomorrow will have a brighter, healthier smile.

If you have concerns about your children’s teeth, please call our office to schedule an appointment. We can tell you if your child needs Phase 1 orthodontics or another type of treatment. We are ready to answer all your questions and respond to your concerns. Call today.