Orthodontic treatment for children can be a great way to improve both their smile and their oral health. If you are concerned about your child’s teeth, it is important to schedule an evaluation with an orthodontist as soon as possible. The earlier you start, the better the chances of a successful outcome.
Below are a couple of things to consider before deciding whether or not your child is ready for orthodontic treatment:
His Or Her Age
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children should go for their first orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. That is because it’s easier to detect and correct orthodontic problems at a younger age when the jaw and teeth are still developing. Early treatment can help to prevent more serious problems from developing, such as crowding, misalignment, and bite problems. It can also help to improve your child’s self-confidence and social interactions.
The Severity Of The Problem
If your child has a mild orthodontic problem, such as a slight overbite, they may not need treatment until they are older. However, if he or she has a more severe problem, such as severe crowding or a crossbite, they could need treatment sooner.
The Growth And Development Of Your Child
Your orthodontist will typically start by assessing your child’s growth and development before recommending any treatment. If the child is still growing, they may be a good candidate for early treatment, as this can help to guide their growth and development in a more favorable direction.
Once a decision has been made that they are ready for orthodontic treatment, the orthodontist will discuss the different treatment options available with you.
Braces are probably the most common type of orthodontic treatment recommended for kids. These use brackets and wires to move the teeth into a more correct position. Braces are not the only option though: there are quite a few other appliances that can be used for orthodontic treatment, including clear aligners and expanders.
The Cost Of The Orthodontic Treatment
This typically varies depending on the type of treatment required, and the severity of the problem. Generally speaking though, orthodontic treatment for children should be looked at as an investment. The long-term cost of not addressing the dental issues of your child can often become much higher down the road.
When you are considering orthodontic treatment for your child, it is important that you do your research properly and choose a highly qualified and experienced orthodontist. You should also make sure before the time that you understand the costs involved and that you are comfortable with the treatment plan. With careful planning, orthodontic treatment can be a great way to improve your child’s smile and oral health for the rest of his or her life.
Additional tips
Here are a couple of additional tips for parents who are considering orthodontic treatment for their children:
- Schedule a consultation around age 7. The AAO recommends that all children do so by age 7 so that future, complex intervention can be avoided.
- Make sure your child is as comfortable as possible with their braces or treatment and that he or she is not experiencing unnecessary discomfort. If it sometimes worries you, bring it up with your orthodontist.
- Talk to your child about the treatment plan. Make sure that they understand why they are being treated and what to expect during the process.
- Be supportive. Orthodontic treatment can sometimes be a challenge for both children and parents. Always be supportive of your child and help them to cope with any challenges they might face.
The Bottom Line
We hope you found the above introduction to orthodontic treatment for children helpful. If you still have questions that we haven’t answered, please do not hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help!
