Early Treatment · For Kids
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment
Medically reviewed by Dr. Henry "Hank" Dallam, Orthodontist.
Early orthodontic treatment can help prevent more serious dental issues later in life. Find out how Dr. Hank Dallam can help your child in Augusta, GA.
Early Treatment for Children
Early orthodontic treatment makes braces easier for your children. If you're a parent, you want your child to have a healthy and beautiful smile. Orthodontic treatment can help achieve that, but did you know that it's best to start orthodontic treatment early? Here are the benefits of early orthodontic treatment for your child.
4 Major Benefits of Early Orthodontic Care
Improved Oral Health
Early orthodontics can improve your child's oral health. By correcting bite problems and straightening teeth early on, orthodontic care can reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems.
Better Appearance
Additionally, early treatment can also improve your child's appearance. Straight, healthy teeth and a proper bite can boost your child's confidence and self-esteem leading to long-term improved mental health.
Less Time
Getting care as a child results in shorter, easier wearing of braces. This is because it's easier to correct problems while your child's bones are still growing and developing. This means that your child will spend less time with braces and enjoy the benefits of a beautiful smile sooner.
Cost-Effective
Receiving treatment earlier can also be more cost-effective. By starting treatment early, you can often avoid more complicated and expensive treatments later on.
How Soon Can Early Treatment Begin?
Phase One orthodontic care often begins around ages 7 to 9. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have a first orthodontic check-up by age 7, so problems with jaw growth or bite (for example, an underbite) can be caught early.
How Do I Know if My Child Needs Early Orthodontic Care?
Some signs to watch out for are early or late loss of baby teeth. Baby teeth should start falling out around age 5 and all permanent teeth should be in place by about age 13. Any constant pain, sensitivity, or soreness from chewing or biting should be taken seriously. Below are some additional things to watch for:
- Breathing through the mouth
- Continued thumb sucking
- Difficulty speaking
- Protruding teeth or teeth extending away from one another
- Jaw shifting into crossbite when closing or opening
- Malocclusion – Teeth don't come together evenly
- Crowding of teeth
Finally, when any of these signs are present it is a good idea to visit Dr. Dallam at Augusta Ortho in Evans, GA. He and his team provide free consultations and will help you decide on a plan for your child's orthodontic journey. Click here to see the types of orthodontic treatment options we offer.
Getting your kids orthodontics when they are young can also be more cost-effective. By starting treatment early, you can often avoid more complicated and expensive treatments later on.
Augusta Orthodontics is a high-quality orthodontic center for the treatment of orthodontics. We believe the benefits of early orthodontic treatment can make huge difference in the patients' and their parents' lives. Our experienced orthodontists use modern technology to provide the best possible care for your child. To schedule a consultation, please contact us today.
