Many Orthodontists recommend that children receive their initial evaluation from an orthodontist by the age of seven. A lot of parents, referred by their general dentist or pediatrician for a complimentary consultation, are concerned that “seven is too young to be thinking about braces?”. By the age of seven, most children have begun to lose their primary teeth, and their adult teeth are making their way in. At this point, most orthodontic problems can be identified; sometimes it is what you CAN’T see that can be the problem…
By starting with early exams, your doctor can really see everything, allowing them to evaluate how the bones and teeth are forming and developing. More often than not, these issues can be monitored until the child is older, while some require interceptive treatment.
What is Interceptive Treatment?
Interceptive treatment is also known as phase a starting phase of an orthodontic treatment plan. The goal of interceptive treatment is to intercept a moderate or severe orthodontic problem to reduce or eliminate it. Some of these dental issues include a crossbite, narrow palate, overbite/underbite, or oral habits such as thumb sucking. Interceptive treatment takes advantage of the young, developing jaw bones and growth. The next phase of treatment is usually completed 1-3 years later when most or all of the adult teeth have erupted. Between phases, your doctor will monitor your child’s dental development at periodic visits with updated pictures to be sure everything is going according to plan.
What are Some of the Specific Dental Issues that may Require Treatment?
An anterior or front crossbite occurs when the upper teeth are behind the lower teeth; the upper teeth should fit over the lower teeth. When this happens, the tooth enamel can wear down, and in some cases chipping or breaking of a tooth may occur. It is important to address an anterior crossbite(s) early to help minimize the need for extensive dental work such as root canals, crowns, or build-ups in the future.
Similarly, a posterior or back crossbite occurs when the upper back teeth bite on the inside of the lower teeth. This is often the result of a narrow upper jaw. Your orthodontist will set out the best plan to get the expansion, or widening of the upper jaw needed to correct the crossbite and avoid appliances.
Some children have oral habits such as thumb sucking or a tongue thrust that can cause the front teeth to excessively flare creating little or no overlap between the upper and lower front teeth. This is known as an open bite. When the front teeth are angled or flared out, this puts the patient at risk for trauma. One good hit with a soccer ball, or slip at the pool can cause permanent damage to those flared front teeth.
What if my Child Doesn’t Require Treatment?
After a child visits the initial visit, your orthodontist may recommend treatment, or they will recommend the next steps to look out for future treatment.
Oh No! I didn’t know to have my Child Evaluated by age 7! Is it too Late?
If you have waited a little longer to have your child evaluated by an orthodontist, don’t sweat it. While your orthodontists may recommend that a child be evaluated by an orthodontist by the age of 7, dental issues can be addressed at nearly any age. Having your child evaluated can only help you get a better idea of what lies ahead. Contact your nearest orthodontist here!
Source: https://aosmiles.com/7-year-old-see-orthodontist/