Seven Reasons to See An Orthodontist by Age Seven
Many people are surprised to learn that the American Association of Orthodontists or AAO recommends all children see an orthodontist for the first time by the time they turn 7 years of age. While this may seem like a very early age to take your child to an orthodontist, there are some very good reasons to do so. Here are 7 reasons why it’s important to have your child evaluated by orthodontist by the time he or she turns 7.
Any Problems Present Can Be Identified
By the time a child turns 7, the adult molars have typically come in to establish the back bite. This is when an orthodontist can evaluate the tooth relationships to see if there are any potential problems such as an overbite, underbite, crowding of the teeth or a “gummy smile”.
The Growth of the Jaw Can Be Guided Easily
When your child sees an orthodontist when he or she is young, any jaw growth problems can be identified early on. If it is found that the jaw is not developing correctly to give your child a proper bite, a special orthodontic appliance can be used to help guide the jaw growth while your child is developing and growing.
Can Address Bad Habits Like Thumb-Sucking
A bad oral habit like thumb-sucking can cause crooked teeth and can even change the shape of the jaw. If your child has a bad oral habit like thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting, our Chapel Hill orthodontists can help correct these habits early on to avoid damage to the teeth and/or bite.
Future Treatment Can Be Planned If Necessary
An orthodontist can see what is taking place underneath the gums by taking X-rays to see the position & growth of the bones and joints and the adult teeth that have not yet come in. This insight provides the orthodontist with the opportunity to plan any necessary future orthodontic treatment for the best possible outcome.
Gives Your Child a Head Start on a Healthy & Attractive Smile
When you have your child evaluated by an orthodontist at the age of 7, you are helping your child get an early start on a healthy, straight and attractive smile that can last a lifetime.
Early Treatment Can be Less Complicated and Less Costly
Most often, it is easier to treat many orthodontic problems when a child is young compared to waiting until they’re an adult. Early treatment is often less complicated, and typically costs less than treatment received later in life.
Can Provide your Child with A Needed Boost of Self-Confidence
If your child receives treatment for an obvious orthodontic problem like crooked teeth early in life, he or she will get a big boost of self-confidence knowing his/her smile looks great. This can go far in helping your child in school and at play as kids with attractive & healthy smiles feel good about themselves.
Schedule Your Child’s First Visit Today
If you would like to schedule your child’s first orthodontic evaluation, please complete the Appointment Request form or feel free to contact us at (919) 933-1007. One of our friendly team members will then contact you to schedule your child’s first visit. We look forward to meeting you and your child soon and helping to assure that your child has a healthy and beautiful smile that can last a lifetime!
