As a parent, you want what is best for your child. That means making sure they have a healthy smile that they can show off proudly well into the future. If you’re not sure exactly when you should start addressing developing dental concerns, often with phase 1 orthodontic treatment, our Grand Rapids, MI, orthodontists can help.
Here’s what you need to know about your child’s first orthodontic visit and depending on their needs, when that should happen.
How to Know If Your Child Needs Orthodontics
It can be hard to know the scope of your child’s dental issues beyond what you visibly are able to see. Most often, it is a family dentist who catches and takes note of how the teeth and jaws are growing.
If an abnormality is found during a routine check-up, such as a , your child’s dentist will discuss the finding with you and determine next steps, such as scheduling an initial orthodontic consultation.
There are also several behaviors you can pick up on while at home that can indicate a need to pursue . Common examples most parents notice include prolonged thumbsucking or pacifier use. Of course, genetics can also play a role here and it may be out of your child’s control how their teeth come in. Whatever the cause may be, our local orthodontists can take a closer look and map out a custom orthodontic treatment plan for them.
Your child may also benefit from braces if they experience:
- Premature loss of baby teeth
- Late loss of baby teeth
- Crowded or misplaced teeth
- Difficulty chewing, biting, or speaking
- Excessive grinding or clenching of the teeth
- A present crossbite, underbite, overbite, or open bite (where the top and bottom teeth don’t meet)
When Should an Orthodontic Evaluation Happen?
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children undergo an around the time they turn 7 years old. Taking a child to see an orthodontist at this age is beneficial due to a mixture of baby and permanent teeth. This stage of development allows our doctors to see how teeth are all coming in and if any orthodontic problems are forming.
Now, if your child is older than 7 and has not yet been evaluated, it’s perfectly normal. While that age is a starting point for early orthodontic intervention, children can still go in for a check-up if they are 8 or above. However, if more severe dental problems exist, it is best to have our team confirm whether treatment is needed sooner than later.
Learn More → Does My Child Need Phase 1 Orthodontics?
Arising issues regarding your child’s oral health should be taken seriously and not ignored in hopes they’ll resolve on their own. Treatable problems are always better corrected while your child is younger so keep this in mind when considering whether to seek out orthodontists like ours.
What to Expect for Your Child’s First Appointment
The first visit to the orthodontist is all about observation and general discussion. The main objective centers around examining your child’s mouth, teeth, and jaws.
During the appointment, you can expect that X-rays will be taken of your child’s mouth to give our team an idea of the issues at hand and how they can be remedied. Your child will also be asked to bite down so we can see how the top and bottom teeth come together.
If orthodontic treatment is needed, you’ll be briefed on every detail so both you and your child know what to expect. Our orthodontists will work with your child’s dentist throughout their treatment to ensure their teeth are kept clean and healthy as corrections are made.
Schedule an Orthodontic Consultation Today
Have questions about whether your child is ready for ceramic or metal braces? Our orthodontists in Grand Rapids, MI, can take a look at their smile and make recommendations on what type of orthodontic treatment is best for them. Give Miller Orthodontics a call today at (616) 942-9320 today or contact us online to request an appointment.
This blog post has been updated.
