When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?

To have a smile that's long-lasting and healthy, your child needs teeth and jaws that are properly aligned - in other words, a healthy bite.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that your child get an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven.

What Is Early Treatment?

Early treatment may prevent or intercept more serious problems from developing and may make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated. In some cases, Dr. Ross will be able to achieve results that may not be possible once the face and jaws have finished growing.

If Dr. Ross thinks your child will need treatment, he’ll let you know when it will be best to begin treatment. This gives your orthodontist the best chance to:

  • Guide jaw growth
  • Lower the risk of trauma to protruded front teeth
  • Correct harmful oral habits
  • Improve appearance and self-esteem in your child
  • Guide permanent teeth into a more favorable position
  • Create a more pleasing arrangement of teeth, lips and face

 

Do All Children Need Early Treatment?

While the age that kids get braces may vary, orthodontic treatment most often begins between the ages of nine and 14. Some orthodontic problems are easier to correct if they are treated early.

Early treatment does not necessarily benefit all children. Some problems can be corrected more easily once all of your child’s permanent teeth have grown in.

Other skeletal problems should not be corrected until your child has developed more, or has finished growing. Dr. Ross with come up with a treatment plan based on your child’s needs.

 

The Future Ross’ Smile Stars Club

Our supervisory program is for patients who are not ready for treatment but will need it in the future.

If we need to monitor your child’s development, we will schedule appointments every six-eight months to observe their progress as they grow. This program is free and helps us give your child the best possible results in the future. Read more about the 7 & Up Club.

 

Will My Child Still Need Braces?

Sometimes early treatment is enough to correct your child’s orthodontic problems, and there will be no need for braces in the future. However, early treatment is not a guarantee that your child won’t need future treatment.

Typically, early treatment means that your child a shorter treatment in the future, and will have better results in the end.