9020 76th St Suite B, Pleasant Prairie, WI  53158      (262) 577-5242

8880 S Howell Ave Suite 1100, Oak Creek, WI  53154      (414) 436-0835

 

 

When should my child see an orthodontist?

The most frequent question we hear from parents and friends is “When should my child first see an orthodontist?” While some people think it should be when all the adult teeth have erupted, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends seeing an orthodontist no later than AGE 7.

By this age, your child’s teeth and jaws will have developed enough to allow the orthodontist to spot any potential problems.

Why is it important to have an early orthodontic evaluation?

Having an early orthodontic evaluation can help identify potential issues before they become more serious. It can also help determine the best time to start treatment, which can make treatment more effective and efficient.

Some of the things an orthodontist will look for during an early evaluation include:

  • Crowding, spacing, or overlapping teeth
  • Problems with the bite, such as an overbite, underbite, or crossbite
  • Jaw growth and development
  • Early loss of baby teeth or delayed eruption of adult teeth

What happens during an early orthodontic evaluation?

During an early orthodontic evaluation, the orthodontist will examine your child’s teeth and jaws, take x-rays and photographs, and ask about any symptoms or concerns you may have. Based on this information, the orthodontist will be able to determine if your child will need orthodontic treatment and, if so, when is the best time to start.

If your child does need treatment, the orthodontists at Valeri Orthodontics will create a customized treatment plan that may include braces, clear aligners, or other orthodontic appliances. They will also discuss the duration of treatment, the cost, and any potential risks or side effects. If your child does not need treatment at this time, we will likely keep your child on observation until he or she is ready. 

In conclusion, having an early orthodontic evaluation is important for your child’s oral health. By identifying potential issues early, you can help ensure that your child’s teeth and jaws develop properly and avoid more serious problems down the road. If your child is approaching age 7 or has already passed that age, schedule an appointment with Valeri Orthodontics to get started on the path to a healthy, beautiful smile.

2 Convenient Locations - Pleasant PRairie & Oak Creek

9020 76th St Suite B

Pleasant Prairie, WI 53158

(262) 577-5242

8880 S Howell Ave Suite 1100

Oak Creek, WI 53154

(414) 436-0835

Valeri Orthodontics - Logo - Pleasant Prairie, Oak Creek, Kenosha, Racine, Franklin

Pleasant Prairie

9020 76th St Suite, B

Pleasant Prairie, WI 53158

Oak Creek

8880 S Howell Ave Suite 1100

Oak Creek, WI 53154

Copyright: Valeri Orthodontics 2023