It seems as though the majority of kids have braces, and that they are much younger than they used to be. There are several reasons for orthodontic treatment to start at a young age, and they have to do with functional, cosmetic and oral health concerns! Early intervention orthodontics treatment is not required for all children, but some orthodontic problems need to be addressed early to prevent more serious issues later.
Orthodontists recommend that these children start treatment at a younger age because the jaw and teeth are developing. This means the bones are “softer”, and therefore easier to change shape and increase jaw size for erupting teeth. When it comes to shifting teeth, age is definitely a factor in the length and also the ease of treatment.
What are the benefits of early intervention?
- Detection of serious problems sooner
- Reduction in extraction of permanent teeth
- Increasing jaw size to correct crossbites
- Preservation of space for unerupted teeth
- Lowers the risk of chipping a protruded tooth
- Correction of an under bite for improved growth
Cosmetic concerns are, of course, a factor in deciding to start orthodontic treatment, but they are not the most important factor. Multiple research studies have shown that orthodontics can have a significant effect on a child’s self esteem. If a child is self conscious about his or her appearance, it will affect that child socially and academically. A child or teen who believe that his or her teeth don’t look the same as others will be less likely to speak up in class or to reach out to make a new friend. Orthodontists are aware of those concerns and will address them during a first visit.
Some Signs That Your Child Needs An Orthodontic Consultation:
- Hiding their smile or refusing to smile
- Excess spaces between teeth
- Overbite, underbite, crossbite
- Extra teeth
- Missing teeth
- Severely protruding or buck teeth
- Severely crowded teeth
- Narrow upper or lower jaw
Ultimately, the decision to start orthodontic treatment is based on oral health issues. Crowded teeth are more difficult for a child or teen to brush and floss, which can lead to cavities. A bad bite can lead to uneven tooth wear, changes in jaw growth and possibly jaw issues later in life. Over and under bites can be difficult conditions for a child to maintain good oral health techniques.
Orthodontists base the decision to start early intervention orthodontics treatment on all of these considerations, while weighing your child’s readiness to comply with treatment. No two children have the same orthodontic concerns, and so no two treatments plans are based on the same criteria. Asking specific questions during a consultation and including your child in the discussion will ensure that the treatment plan your orthodontist develops will address all of your concerns, both functional and cosmetic.
When is early treatment necessary?
While not every child requires early orthodontic treatment, some conditions are better addressed sooner rather than later. For example, children with severe crowding, crossbites, or jaw discrepancies may benefit from early intervention. These conditions can worsen over time and become more complicated to treat if left unchecked. Addressing them at a young age can prevent further complications, reduce the severity of future treatments, and even eliminate the need for braces later on. Early treatment helps create a healthy environment for the permanent teeth to come in properly.
Behavioral and lifestyle benefits of early treatment
Beyond health and functionality, early orthodontic treatment can also have a positive impact on a child’s behavior and lifestyle. Children who receive treatment for visible orthodontic issues, such as an overbite or misaligned teeth, may experience a boost in self-esteem and confidence. This can help them feel more comfortable interacting with peers, smiling in photos, and participating in activities like sports or music. The sooner these issues are addressed, the more confident your child may feel in their everyday life, potentially reducing any social anxieties related to their appearance.
Tailored treatment plans for individual needs
Each child’s orthodontic needs are unique, and early treatment is never one-size-fits-all. Orthodontists carefully evaluate a child’s dental and jaw development, taking into consideration the severity of the issue, the child’s growth patterns, and the ideal timing for intervention. This personalized approach ensures that your child receives the most effective and efficient treatment for their specific condition. Whether it’s a minor adjustment or a more comprehensive plan, orthodontists will work closely with you to determine the best course of action to ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Early Intervention. Orthodontics: Contact Us Today
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