What Are the Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment?
Early orthodontic treatment, also called interceptive treatment, means treatment that begins while some baby teeth are still present. The goal is not to rush every child into braces. Instead, early care helps an orthodontist identify developing problems and, when needed, guide growth in a way that can improve your child’s long-term oral health and bite function.
Why The AAO Recommends An Orthodontic Check-Up by Age 7?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that a child’s first orthodontic check-up happen when an orthodontic problem is first recognized, and no later than age 7. By this age, many children have enough permanent teeth for an orthodontist to evaluate how the teeth and jaws are developing, including subtle issues that might not be obvious at home.
What Happens at the First Orthodontic Visit?
An early check-up is often more about information than immediate treatment. In general, there are three possible outcomes:
- No treatment is expected to be necessary.
- Treatment may be needed in the future, so your child is followed periodically as the face and jaws grow.
- There is a developing problem that lends itself to early treatment.
If your child falls into the “follow and monitor” group, that can be a good thing. It means your orthodontist can watch growth patterns and tooth eruption timing and recommend treatment only if and when it becomes beneficial.
When Is Early Orthodontic Treatment Helpful?
Many orthodontic problems are best treated after all permanent teeth have come in. Still, early treatment can be in a child’s best interest if the problem could become more serious over time.
In those cases, the purpose of early orthodontic treatment is to intercept the developing issue, eliminate the cause when possible, guide the growth of facial and jaw bones, and create adequate space for incoming permanent teeth. In some situations, a second course of treatment will still be recommended later, once all permanent teeth have erupted, to place those teeth in their best positions.
What Orthodontic Problems Benefit from Early Treatment?
Every child’s development is different, but orthodontists may recommend treating certain concerns while some baby teeth are still present. These may include underbites, crossbites, significant crowding, excessive spacing, extra or missing teeth, teeth that meet abnormally, or do not meet at all, and thumb, finger, or pacifier habits that affect the teeth or jaw growth.
Some of these problems are inherited, while others can result from accidents, dental disease, or patterns like abnormal swallowing.
What Types of Early Orthodontic Treatments Are There?
Early orthodontic treatment can take many forms, and it is always tailored to the child’s needs. An orthodontist may prescribe a fixed or removable device to move teeth, change jaw position, or hold teeth in place to create healthy, lasting changes. One example is a palatal expander, which helps adjust the jaw into the correct position as it grows.
In some cases, no treatment is needed. Instead, removing certain baby teeth at the right time can help permanent teeth erupt in a better position, taking advantage of a child’s growth and development. The key is that the plan is coordinated around timing and development, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Why Is It Necessary to Catch Some Orthodontic Issues Early?
The bottom line is that some orthodontic problems may be easier to correct when detected and treated early. Waiting until all permanent teeth have come in, or until facial growth is nearly complete, can make certain corrections more difficult. Early evaluation helps families understand what is happening now, what might happen later, and whether action today can prevent a more complicated situation tomorrow.
Take Your Child to an AAO Orthodontist Today
To give your child the best opportunity for a healthy smile, visit an AAO orthodontist. No referral is needed, and many AAO orthodontists offer an initial consultation at no cost and with no obligation.
An orthodontist can alert you to potential problems and recommend treatment when it is most appropriate for your child, because with orthodontics, timing really is everything.
Use our Locator Tool to find an AAO orthodontist near you and schedule an appointment today. orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics who possess the skills and experience to give you your best smile. Find an orthodontist nearest you with our online tool today.
