Early Orthodontic Evaluation
Orthodontic treatments are often thought of as being for pre-teens and teenagers, but the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) suggests that children should have their first orthodontic evaluation around the age of seven. If any noticeable irregularities are found, treatment may be recommended at a younger age.
Many orthodontists believe that there is an optimal time to address malocclusions (bad bites) and abnormalities in the face and jaw. While an early orthodontic assessment does not always mean immediate treatment is necessary, some irregularities are easier to correct before the completion of jaw growth. This underscores the importance of identifying issues early on.
Irregularities in Pediatric Dental Development
Orthodontic problems are not always obvious to the naked eye. Orthodontists have the expertise to detect even minor signs of misalignment and irregularities. While genetics are a major factor in the development of orthodontic issues, poor nutrition, lack of proper oral hygiene, and habits like thumb sucking can also play a role in causing these problems.
While a thorough examination by a professional is needed for a precise diagnosis of orthodontic issues, there are some common signs that may indicate the presence of irregularities:
- Finger or thumb sucking
- Chewing or biting problems
- Teeth that do not meet or that meet irregularly
- Disproportionate jaws
- Clicking or shifting jaws
- Later or earlier loss of baby teeth than normal
Early orthodontic intervention can take various forms.
Early intervention and treatment are essential in preventing the development of more serious oral health problems in the future. If not addressed promptly, irregularities can worsen and necessitate more complex treatment down the line. Your oral health professional can improve the look of your child's teeth and jaw, impact jaw growth, and provide advice on correcting unhealthy oral habits.
Early intervention usually involves preventive, interceptive, and comprehensive treatments. Each type of treatment is vital in preventing the emergence of complex issues. Below is a brief summary of these categories to demonstrate how early intervention can prevent complications:
Preventive Treatments
The aim of preventive treatment is to prevent malocclusion from occurring in a healthy mouth. Your dentist may extract a baby tooth to make room for the adult tooth to come in. On the other hand, if a baby tooth is lost prematurely, a space retainer appliance can be used to maintain the space for the adult tooth.
Interceptive Treatments
Interceptive treatments aim to address developing issues and target the root cause whenever possible. Ideal candidates for interceptive treatment usually have a mix of adult and baby teeth. Your dentist can modify the size of the teeth, remove stubborn baby teeth, and create space for incoming adult teeth.
Comprehensive Treatments
Severe misalignment of teeth or improper jaw function may require comprehensive treatments to correct growth irregularities. This could include a combination of orthodontic treatment, jaw surgery, tooth extractions, or restorative surgery. It is possible to begin comprehensive treatment before the loss of baby teeth, but multiple phases of treatment may be necessary for optimal results.
If you have any questions or concerns about early orthodontic treatment, please consult your dental care provider for more information.
