No. Parents can contact an orthodontist directly to schedule an evaluation. If you are concerned about your child’s teeth, bite, or jaw development, you do not have to wait for a referral.
Not routinely. In some cases, an orthodontist may recommend removing certain baby teeth at a particular time to help manage the eruption of permanent teeth. That decision should be based on an individualized treatment plan, not a general rule that baby teeth must be removed before braces.
Some children will. A second phase of treatment may be recommended after more permanent teeth have erupted to position those teeth and further address the bite. Your orthodontist can explain what future treatment is anticipated for your child.
No. Depending on the orthodontic problem, Phase 1 treatment may involve braces, a removable or fixed appliance, a palatal expander, or another individualized approach. Some children do not need treatment at all and are simply monitored as they grow.
Phase 1 orthodontic treatment is early treatment that occurs while a child is still growing and some baby teeth remain. It may be recommended to address certain developing problems with the teeth, bite, or jaws.
A loose baby tooth does not automatically prevent a child from receiving orthodontic treatment. An orthodontist will consider the child’s overall dental development, tooth eruption, and treatment needs when deciding whether and when to begin treatment.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a child’s first orthodontic check-up when a problem is first recognized, and no later than age 7. If you notice a concern before age 7, you can schedule an earlier visit.
Some 7-year-olds may benefit from braces or another orthodontic appliance, but an age-7 check-up does not mean a child will automatically start treatment. The purpose of the early visit is to evaluate development and determine whether treatment is needed now, later, or not at all.
No. A child does not need to lose every baby tooth before orthodontic treatment can begin. Many children are evaluated while they have a combination of baby and permanent teeth, and some may benefit from treatment during this stage.
Yes. Some children can receive orthodontic treatment while baby teeth are still present. Whether braces or another type of treatment is appropriate depends on the child’s orthodontic needs and stage of development.
