While many parents understand the importance of their child seeing their dentist for the first time at an early age, it can be a bit more confusing deciding when — or if — your child should see an orthodontist. As your trusted local orthodontist in Allen, TX, Allen Orthodontist is here to help struggling parents understand the importance of early orthodontics and the role it can play in your children’s life for years to come.
At What Age Should My Child See an Orthodontist?
First and foremost, it’s important for every child to see an orthodontist at least once, in order to determine if there are any potential issues that may need correcting. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have their first orthodontic appointment by the age of 7. This is because by age 7, some of your child’s permanent teeth will have grown in, including their first set of permanent molars. By studying your child’s new and incoming adult teeth, the orthodontist will be able to begin tracking your child’s developing bite to deduce if there might be any future developmental issues. With the help of x-rays, the orthodontist can determine whether or not your child may be missing any permanent teeth as well. The earlier orthodontic problems are identified, the quicker and easier the solution can be to address these problems.
Signs Your Child Should See an Orthodontist
There are also multiple warning signs and symptoms that you should be on the lookout for in getting your child evaluated by an orthodontist sooner rather than later. These signs include early or late loss of baby teeth, noticeable difficulties with chewing or biting, thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, crowded or gapped teeth, jaw misalignment, popping or cracking in the jaw joints, mismatched bites, and mouth breathing. While you don’t need a dentist’s recommendation for your child to see an orthodontist, you can speak to your pediatric dentist or family dentist to help you understand if orthodontic treatment is recommended.
Early Orthodontic Care from your Allen, TX Orthodontist
Remember — just because you take your child for their first orthodontic check-up at age 7 doesn’t necessarily mean orthodontic treatment will begin at that time. However, should it be determined that your child would benefit from early treatment, you can rest assured that they are in capable hands with Dr. Mojdehi-Barnes — your local Allen orthodontist. At Allen Orthodontist, we have the treatment options to suit your child’s needs, from braces to retention, and any appliances required in-between!
Schedule an Appointment with your Local Orthodontist Today
If you believe your child may benefit from early orthodontic treatment, or if they’re ready for their first orthodontic check-up, your local orthodontist at Allen Orthodontist is ready to help. Our office provides a friendly, welcoming atmosphere in order to help your child feel comfortable and remain at-ease during their orthodontic visits. If you have any questions about our services or treatments, or if you’d like to schedule an appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact us. You are also welcome to use our convenient online appointment request form. We thank you for choosing Allen Orthodontist and look forward to meeting you!