What is the difference between early orthodontic treatment and regular orthodontic treatment, and why might your child need early treatment? How will early treatment benefit your child in the long run?
These are just a few of the questions surrounding early orthodontic treatment for children. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist as early as age seven. At this age, the orthodontist can evaluate jaw growth, tooth development, and determine whether orthodontic treatment may be needed.
Early orthodontic treatment, also known as Phase One treatment, typically begins around ages eight or nine. Phase Two treatment usually begins around age eleven or older. The goal of early treatment is to guide proper jaw growth and correct certain bite problems, such as underbites or crossbites.
Early treatment can also help create space for permanent teeth to come in properly, reducing the likelihood of extractions and more complex treatment later in life.
Orthodontic problems such as crowded teeth, excessive spacing, jaw growth issues, protruding teeth, and improper bites may be inherited or caused by injury to the mouth, early or late loss of baby teeth, or thumb sucking habits.
Most children lose all of their baby teeth by age thirteen. By the end of the teenage years, the jaw bones harden and stop growing. Orthodontic treatment for adults often takes longer and may involve tooth extractions or oral surgery.
Early orthodontic treatment can help guide jaw growth while the bones are still developing, often preventing the need for more extensive orthodontic care later in life. In many cases, early treatment can significantly reduce or eliminate the need for extractions or surgical procedures in the future.
If your child is between the ages of seven and eight and shows signs of needing orthodontic care, or if your family dentist has recommended an orthodontic evaluation, we encourage you to contact our practice to schedule an appointment.
Our team will provide your child with a thorough initial exam and discuss the best steps to take to support healthy jaw development and a confident smile.
Our Lewiston, Idaho location is our main office. Our other locations listed: Grangeville and Moscow are satellite offices. If you have any questions about the services we provide at our satellite locations, please call our Lewiston office at (208) 798-4427.
