Often when I am out I am asked the question “When should my
child get braces?” And, in most case the child is not with them for me to check
and there for my answer is this.
Orthodontic treatment will often begin between the ages of 8 &
14. Treatment that begins while a child
is growing helps produce optimal results.
Our office, McDaniel, Sternstein & Aleman along with the American
Association of Orthodontics recommends that children have an orthodontic evaluation
no later than the age of 7. By this age,
most children will have a mix of permanent and baby teeth.
While orthodontic care ultimately is a team effort
establishing a relationship with the patient at an early age is the first step
to a healthy and beautiful smile. During
the first visit the orthodontist will be getting to know the patient while
looking for a few of the following:
- Position of the first permanent molars
- Position of the upper and lower jaws
- Spacing and room for erupting permanent teeth
- Facial Appearance/symmetry
Why
it is important to see an Orthodontist for your Orthodontic Treatment:
An
orthodontist is a dentist who has spent 2-3 years in a specialty residency
program focused on tooth movement, facial development, and how teeth fit
together to provide optimal function and aesthetics.
For example if you had a heart condition, you
would not see your general physician you would see a cardiologist. Just the same, if you needed your teeth
straight you would go to an orthodontist.
