Orthodontics is part of many people’s childhood rites of passage. It’s certainly not uncommon for young teeth to be healthy, just not straight. But as parents, knowing when to bring your child in for an orthodontic evaluation in Wheaton, IL, is the big question. Amber Dental follows the American Association of Orthodontists guidelines and recommends that children get their first orthodontic checkup no later than the age of seven. At this age, we’re able to start detecting irregular growth patterns earlier and keep corrections less invasive than what may be needed as a teenager.
Kids Are More Resilient
Young children’s jaws are much more malleable than a teenager’s or an adult’s jaw. That means teeth misalignments, like crossbites, can be easily addressed more gently. And we can monitor with you ongoing to help guide the growth of adult teeth as they erupt.
Why does my child need an orthodontist before all of their permanent teeth come in?
We like to stay ahead of the curve instead of playing catch-up. Early orthodontic treatment can reduce the time your child will need to wear their braces. Being proactive also allows us to plan preventively for any overcrowding that might occur.
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Evaluations
Orthodontics does prioritize an aesthetic, symmetrical smile. However, it’s also a key measure in your child’s oral health journey to keep teeth functional and jaws healthy. Early orthodontic evaluations make it possible to stave off painful issues as your child grows.
Proper orthodontic care starting at a young age helps:
- Prevent the need for tooth extractions.
- Prevent traumatic tooth injuries from falls or sports.
- Reduce the risks of both gum disease and tooth decay.
Signs Your Child Needs an Orthodontic Evaluation
As a parent, orthodontic issues aren’t always obvious until they develop into big concerns. If you notice any of these signs in your child, they may need an orthodontic evaluation:
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Jaw clicking or popping
- Asymmetrical facial features
- Crowded, misplaced, or misaligned teeth
- A chronic thumb or finger sucking habit
Late Is Better Than Never
While preventative orthodontics in Wheaton are recommended to help correct issues before they start, orthodontic evaluations are better late than never. We offer excellent and comprehensive orthodontics for adults, teens, and children, with expert knowledge and a comfortable environment.
Stay Ahead of the Game with Amber Dental
At Amber Dental, we want all of our Wheaton, IL, patients to have the best possible orthodontic outcomes. Schedule your child’s first orthodontic appointment with us and help create a strong, healthy smile right from the start.