Why 7?
We hear it often- “Oh, we will need you but not yet, my child still has baby teeth to lose”. However, the time is now!
Why so early? This is the age when the front and back permanent teeth are erupting, which allows an Orthodontist to evaluate tooth eruption, bite position, and jaw growth. Fortunately, most children will not need early treatment. However, there are orthodontic problems that can develop into severe issues in the future if not addressed early.
At your child’s first orthodontic visit we are looking for several things both on the X-ray and in the mouth. Oftentimes things that are concerning need to be addressed prior to the eruption of all the adult teeth, and before the child is done growing.
In both pictures below, baby teeth are present. In 1a, we have a bite concern- the front teeth are in what we call a “crossbite”, which is a compromised bite due to the way bottom teeth connect with the upper teeth. In 1b we see a crossbite in the back- leading to a crooked smile and long lasting jaw and facial changes if it remains after your growth spurt.
1a
1b
What We Look For
- Extra Teeth
- Missing Teeth
- Crossbite
- Eruption Concerns
- Oral Habit
- Severe Crowding
- Severe Overbite
- Severe Overjet
- Jaw Imbalance
What To Expect
At your child’s first orthodontic visit, they will typically receive photos and an X-ray (not one commonly taken by the dentist). Your Orthodontist will discuss if they notice any concerns, and what the next steps might be when your child is ready. These consultations are typically at no charge and are a great way to gain knowledge about your child’s future orthodontic journey.
Dr. Adina Wolfe, owner and orthodontist at Quaker Pointe Orthodontics, says “I love watching the children grow up and mature throughout our yearly Observation appointments. It gives them an opportunity to realize that the Orthodontist isn’t scary; and it gives us, the Orthodontist, the opportunity to watch, wait and treat only when the child is ready.”
Dr. Danielle Godley, the owner and orthodontist at Godley Family Orthodontics, mentions, “Fortunately, the majority of children will not need early intervention. We value monitoring your child’s facial and dental development. This also allows us to decide the best option if treatment is needed, when the time is right.”
If early orthodontic treatment is needed, it typically involves some temporary braces or aligners to make space for incoming adult teeth or to make improvements in alignment and bite. This phase can also be used to help encourage proper growth of the jaws. Early treatment can last anywhere from 3 months to a year, and is usually followed by a retainer. Because these early Phase I braces are typically followed later by teen/adult braces or aligners (Phase II), we try to make this experience as simple and fun as possible!
