Your child’s teeth are important. Getting your child the best orthodontic care helps ensure their teeth come in correctly.
Common age to start child orthodontics
According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), children should start seeing an orthodontist once they turn 7 years old. By age 7, most kids have enough permanent teeth that orthodontists can see a potential facial development, jaw, bite or tooth problem. An initial orthodontic consultation early on can help you and your child’s orthodontist keep track of your child’s teeth alignment and bite as they grow.
Children typically have lost all their baby teeth by the time they’re 12 years old. By visiting a child orthodontist early, your child’s provider could create a plan that helps their adult teeth grow with little to no issues. It’s also common for children between the ages of 8 and 14 to get teeth-straightening appliances like braces or clear aligners.
Reasons why children should see an orthodontist
Child orthodontics plays a major role in preventing potentially significant problems down the line. Pediatric orthodontists can see teeth problems in kids early on. Most kids orthodontists have dental specialties that focus on:
- Crooked teeth
- Underbites and overbites
- Crowded teeth
- Uneven jaws
Additionally, orthodontists can provide preventive care for children. Getting ahead of teeth and jaw issues helps prevent kids from having more orthodontic problems as they age.
Benefits of early orthodontic treatment
Early orthodontic treatment is an excellent way to protect your child’s teeth as they develop so they have a healthy smile. Advantages of starting early orthodontic treatment include:
- Enhanced jaw and tooth development
- Improved starting point for adult teeth growth
- Reduced risk of tooth, gum or jaw issues
- Decreased likelihood of expensive future procedures
Schedule an orthodontic consultation for your child today
Be proactive about your children’s mouth and teeth health by taking them to a child orthodontist at Hess Orthodontics. We ensure your child gets the early orthodontic treatment they need by providing a comfortable environment every time you visit. Our orthodontic specialists and staff are ready to help your child enhance their smile throughout their orthodontic journey.
Whether you want to take preventive measures or are concerned about your child’s teeth growth, we’ll treat your child with kindness during a consultation that helps us determine if intervention is necessary. Learn more about our early orthodontic treatments in West Coastal & Central Florida and schedule a complimentary consultation today!
