When Should My Child Get an Orthodontic Evaluation?

Most people associate orthodontic treatments, especially braces, with teenagers. However, there are a variety of reasons why you should schedule your child's orthodontic evaluation much earlier than that, even when their baby teeth are still present. 

Dr. Donoghue at Sandia Peak Dental in Albuquerque, New Mexico, can evaluate your child’s orthodontic needs and determine if early treatment is required to avoid more extensive and expensive procedures later on. 

When Should I Schedule My Child's First Orthodontist Appointment?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends you schedule your child’s first orthodontic checkup by the age of seven. This may appear to be a very young age, but it is the optimum time for an orthodontist to examine your child's teeth and assess their bite alignment. 

In most circumstances, treatment won’t be recommended until your youngster is 10 or so, unless your orthodontist discovers a serious problem that requires prompt treatment.

How Can an Orthodontist Assist My Child?

Early orthodontic treatment reduces the complexity and length of later treatments and also prevents the development of more complex issues. Early intervention allows the orthodontist to rectify habits that contribute to certain defects, guide the proper development of their teeth and jawbone, and reduce the risks of future alignment or bite issues.

The best moment to start treatment differs for each child and is determined by their specific diagnosis.

What Kinds of Problems Might Early Treatment Address?

When you schedule an initial orthodontic evaluation for your child at Sandia Peak Dental, Dr. Donoghue will consider a variety of criteria, including your child's bite, jaw growth, permanent tooth eruption, and oral habits, to determine whether early treatment is warranted.

Early treatment usually improves any dental conditions so that when additional interventions are required in the future, treatment becomes less complex. On the other hand, there are also issues that can cause pain or discomfort to the child, which will need to be addressed right away.

More Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment

Most children who undergo early orthodontic treatment will eventually require more treatments like braces. However, if they benefit from early treatment, the amount of time they have to wear the braces is considerably reduced. 

Furthermore, children who begin orthodontic treatment early in life may be finished by the time they reach their teenage years when their self-esteem and confidence could be affected by orthodontic appliances.

To schedule an orthodontic evaluation for your child, contact Sandia Peak Dental at (505) 298-6732 or visit us at 8000 Eubank Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87122.