Since teenagers are one of the most popular age groups with braces, you might think that you don’t have to even think about scheduling an orthodontic consultation for your little one until they are 13. In reality, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends doing so at age seven! If this seems a bit early to you, keep reading to learn a bit more about braces with baby teeth, including how Phase 1 orthodontics can benefit your child.
An Inside Look at Braces with Baby Teeth
Phase 1 orthodontics (also referred to as “pediatric orthodontics”) is designed to help children with problems like overbites and considerable overcrowding – even before all of their adult teeth emerge. Most often, this is accomplished with a space maintainer, expander, or specialty braces. The treatment timelines are usually around 12 months, and the time invested in this orthodontic treatment can help improve the look, health, and function of your child’s smile both now and years from now!
8 Signs Your Child Might Benefit From Phase 1 Orthodontics
If you’re wondering whether or not your child would benefit from Phase 1 orthodontics, here are a few things to keep an eye out for:
- Crowded or crooked teeth
- Trouble chewing properly
- Difficulty enunciating clearly
- Early loss of baby teeth
- Persistent mouth breathing
- Chronic thumb sucking
- Jaws that “pop” when opening and closing
- Jaws and teeth that are not proportionate
What to Expect at the Consultation
Now you might be wondering, “What happens during the initial orthodontic consultation?” In short, you’ll both meet with the orthodontist so they can get to know you a bit better. Then, they will complete a comprehensive oral exam, assessing the development of your child’s jaw, the position of their teeth, and the overall health of their smile in the process. Next, they will review their findings and explain why they do or don’t recommend moving forward with Phase 1 orthodontics. If they do think your child would benefit from this treatment, then they will also share the specifics, including the type of orthodontic appliance they recommend.
About the Practice
With two exceptional orthodontists leading the way, our team at Simply Orthodontics Wayland is proud to help patients of all ages achieve their best smiles, even those who still have their baby teeth! Our approach is caring, compassionate, and custom with each and every person in our treatment chair because we want the journey to be enjoyable as well, not just the end result. If you would like to schedule an appointment for yourself or your little one, visit our website or call (508) 358-6300.