Early (Phase I) Orthodontic Treatment Explained
Long Beach, CA – Did you know that the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that all children see an orthodontist at age seven? While many children will not need treatment that young, beginning a relationship with an orthodontist will ensure that treatment, when needed, begins at the right time to provide the best outcomes.
People may balk at the idea of a child visiting an orthodontist at age seven, but while it sounds young, it’s the ideal time to get an idea of how the jaws and teeth are developing. Most children will have a mix of baby and permanent teeth at this age, which allows us to see how the bite is forming and if there might be problems that could surface in the future. Xrays will show whether any teeth are missing, developing in an abnormal position or if inadequate space is available for the permanent teeth to erupt.
Early orthodontic treatment can prevent more serious problems from developing later, and while it may not preclude future orthodontic treatment, it will make a second phase of treatment less complicated and take less time. Early treatment uses orthodontic appliances, such as expanders, retainers or partial braces, to help guide the growth of the jaw and create a better environment for the permanent teeth to erupt.
Early treatment gives orthodontists the ability to:
- Help guide jaw growth
- Correct the effects of harmful habits, such as thumb sucking and tongue thrusting
- Lower the risk of trauma to protruded front teeth
- Guide permanent teeth into more ideal locations
- Improve appearance and self-esteem
- Improve the bite function, which can improve speaking and chewing ability
- Prevent issues from worsening, leading to more complicated treatment in the future
By evaluating your child early, it gives the orthodontist the opportunity to begin treatment at the time it will have the most positive effect. For many children, beginning a relationship with an orthodontist doesn’t mean treatment will need to begin right away. But what it can provide is peace of mind knowing that when the time is right, your orthodontist can perfect your child’s bite, improving their oral health and self-esteem.