Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that uses various appliances, including braces and retainers, to help bring the teeth and jawbone into proper alignment. Braces are one of the most common orthodontic tools used to treat malocclusions, or bad bites. Though the image of braces is commonly associated with teenagers, younger patients can also undergo treatment.
The main advantage of starting orthodontic treatment early is that it will be over before the teen years. Teenagers tend to be more self-conscious than kids in their early teens or even younger, so earlier treatment means they will have a picture perfect smile throughout those more difficult years.
Starting orthodontic treatment early can also help the jaw grow to an appropriate size later in the child’s adolescence, which may prevent issues down the road. For example, an orthodontist can use an expansion device to widen the palate, making room for teeth that would otherwise have to be surgically removed to prevent crowding if the child were a teenager and the bones already set.
There are also appliances an orthodontist can use in interceptive treatments in younger children, to guide the arches of the mouth and the jaw into correct position. This may minimize the need for oral or jaw surgery when the child is older. It may also minimize the occurrence of protruding teeth, when the permanent teeth come in.
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends screening children for malocclusions no later than age seven. While the family dentist may offer some orthodontic screening, it is best to take the child to a trained orthodontist. He or she can catch any malocclusions as they are forming at that young age, and recommend the best course of action for treating them with braces, if appropriate, and as early as possible.
To schedule your child’s initial orthodontic screening in Long Island, contact our dedicated and experienced team at Newman Orthodontics today.
