From the looks of your child’s smile, you think they’re going to need to visit an orthodontist in Canfield for braces treatment. But how do you know when the right age to do this is? As a parent, your goal is to proactively tackle any issues they have while they’re younger, so they don’t have to deal with them at key times in their development. You’ve probably got more questions than answers on your mind right now, and there’s no special guide for parents to follow when it comes to these problems. Read on to learn about when the best time is to seek orthodontic treatment for your child.
Why Do Children Need Braces?
Straightening crooked and misaligned teeth may seem like a strictly aesthetic treatment, but it can actually improve oral health and bite problems as well. Fixing these issues is necessary for proper growth and development, and when left untreated, they can cause your child to lose their baby teeth too early. Oftentimes, orthodontic issues are inherited, so if you or any of your family members have needed braces in the past, then it’s likely that your child may.
Typically, your regular family dentist may be the first person to alert you to any jaw or teeth alignment issues that your child has during your routine checkups and cleanings with them. Being proactive and starting this process early can help your children’s orthodontist in Canfield spot issues and develop individualized treatment plans to fix them as their mouth is developing.
When Should They Go For An Evaluation?
Most orthodontists would agree that kids should visit them for an evaluation once their permanent teeth are nearly finished growing in, around seven years old. During this time in their oral growth, issues like bite problems and overcrowded teeth are very apparent.
During their first visit with their orthodontist, they’ll thoroughly examine your child’s mouth and check their bite. Typically, during this initial appointment, they’ll also take X-rays to see the position of their teeth and how their remaining permanent teeth will grow in. Based on these images, they’ll decide what the best treatment option is for your son or daughter.
What Types of Braces Could They Get?
Braces use gently-placed pressure on your child’s teeth to shift them into their ideal positions. There are a few kinds of braces treatments that your orthodontist may suggest for your child depending on the severity of their misalignment: traditional metal braces, Invisalign, or clear or ceramic braces. They may suggest that your child needs other orthodontic appliances as well.
In the future, your child will appreciate the fact that you took a proactive role in caring for their oral health. Bringing your child to their first visit with the orthodontist when their permanent teeth are just about done growing in can help keep their mouth healthy for a lifetime. It can also give them a smile they’re proud to show off as an adult!
About the Author
Dr. Marissa Mikolich has over a decade of experience improving patients’ smiles by developing individualized treatment plans for each unique mouth. One of her favorite parts of her career is getting to see the satisfaction and excitement her patients experience when they complete their orthodontic treatment and have a beautiful set of pearly whites that they’re proud of. After graduating with her doctoral degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, she went on to earn her Master of Science degree in oral biology so she could provide advanced orthodontic care. For questions or to schedule an appointment, visit Mikolich Orthodontics’ website or contact 330-967-4110.