According to the American Association for Orthodontics., the best way to prevent many orthodontic issues is through early detection and intervention. That’s one of the reasons why orthodontists now recommend that parents schedule an orthodontic appointment by the time their child is seven years old – or sooner. By acting quickly, orthodontists have a small window in which we can correct problems before they become even bigger ones.

For example, through early intervention, we’re able to:

1) Guide Jaw Growth

This means Dr. Butler, Dr. Collette and Dr. Porter are able to help fix a problem like a crossbite or an overbite, as well as help children whose jaws appear to be too narrow for their teeth or too wide, causing gaps.

2) Lower the Risk Of Trauma To Protruding Front Teeth

When front teeth stick out, they can become subjected to injury because they are not protected by the lips. With early treatment, we can correct this problem and protect your child’s front teeth.

3) Correct Harmful Oral Habits

Some children suck their thumbs. As cute as it was when they were infants, children who suck their thumbs when their teeth are developing risk the possibility of substantial oral problems later. Early intervention allows our team to correct this right away.

4) Improve Appearance

In some instances, early intervention can also improve a child’s overall appearance. How? Children’s bones are still malleable, so fixing these problems is easier now than when they grow up.

5) Guide Permanent Teeth Into A More Favorable Position

As mentioned above, because children’s bones and teeth positioning are more malleable at this young age, we’re able to guide their permanent teeth into a more favorable position. This could mean your child may not need braces later, saving you money in the long run.

6) Improve the Way Lips Meet

One of the main features of a smile isn’t merely your child’s pearly whites, but also their lips. When teeth stick out due to an overbite or an underbite, or when they are crooked, it can greatly affect the way a child’s lips meet. Early intervention gives us an opportunity to make sure that your child’s lips meet the way that they should.

7) Help Children Become Comfortable With Seeing An Orthodontist Early

When your child is older they may learn that they need braces, and kids that have no prior experience with an orthodontist might feel nervous or scared. By visiting Tri-City Orthodontics early, you’re allowing our team to build a friendly rapport with your child so that if, in the future, they need orthodontic treatment, they will feel comfortable and at ease with the process.

We hope this gives you a better understanding of why it’s so important to schedule an orthodontist appointment sooner rather than later. If you have questions, our team is only one phone call away! If you’re ready to schedule an appointment for your child, submit your information now!