Early orthodontic treatment can help prevent more severe dental problems later in life, especially when the problems are found early on, like around the time your child is beginning to lose their baby teeth. Interceptive orthodontics preserves space for unerupted teeth by addressing the structure of the jaw and teeth while the child’s baby teeth are still in its mouth.
By age 7, your child’s mouth has grown enough so that your pediatric dentist or orthodontist can identify how it will develop as the permanent teeth begin to emerge. He or she can also develop a treatment plan that can help guide that development on a good course.
Some orthodontic conditions are much easier to correct if they are detected early. Here are the ways an orthodontist can help with early intervention:
Interceptive orthodontics can offer these long-term benefits:
Your child’s pediatric dentist is well trained in identifying potential bite problems in young children, and if they deem it necessary, can refer you to an orthodontist for assessment and treatment—like the orthodontists at Airway & Sleep Group. We are glad to examine your child and offer our recommendations.