Is Early Orthodontic Treatment Necessary? - A Comprehensive Guide
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that deals with the alignment of teeth and jaws. It is a specialized field that requires additional training and certification beyond general dentistry. Many parents wonder if their child needs orthodontic treatment, and if so, when is the best time to start.
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment
Early orthodontic treatment, also known as interceptive orthodontics, can help address orthodontic problems before they become more severe. Some of the benefits of early orthodontic treatment include:
- Preventing more serious orthodontic problems from developing
- Reducing the need for more invasive treatments later in life
- Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth
- Preserving space for unerupted teeth
- Reducing the risk of damage to protruding front teeth
- Correcting bite problems, such as crossbite, overbite, and underbite
- Improving speech development
- Boosting self-esteem and confidence
When to Seek Early Orthodontic Treatment
It is recommended that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. This is because many orthodontic problems are easier to correct when children are still growing and their bones are more malleable. However, not all children will require early orthodontic treatment.
Your child's dentist or orthodontist can help determine if early orthodontic treatment is necessary based on several factors, including:
- Their age
- Their dental development
- Their bite
- Any oral habits they may have, such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting
- Their facial profile
- Any existing dental problems
If early orthodontic treatment is recommended, your orthodontist will develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your child's individual needs. This may involve the use of orthodontic appliances such as braces, retainers, or space maintainers.
FAQs About Early Orthodontic Treatment
Q: How long does early orthodontic treatment typically last?
A: The length of treatment can vary depending on the severity of the orthodontic problem and the type of treatment used. Generally, early orthodontic treatment can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years.
Q: Are there any risks associated with early orthodontic treatment?
A: As with any medical or dental treatment, there are some risks associated with early orthodontic treatment. These may include tooth decay, gum disease, or damage to the roots of the teeth. However, these risks can be minimized by practicing good oral hygiene and following your orthodontist's instructions for care.
Q: How much does early orthodontic treatment cost?
A: The cost of early orthodontic treatment can vary depending on the type of treatment needed and the orthodontist's fees. However, many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of orthodontic treatment.
Q: Can adults receive early orthodontic treatment?
A: No, early orthodontic treatment is only recommended for children and teenagers who are still growing and developing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, early orthodontic treatment can be beneficial for many children who have orthodontic problems. By addressing these issues early on, orthodontists can help prevent more serious problems from developing later in life and reduce the need for more invasive treatments. If you are concerned about your child's dental health, talk to their dentist or orthodontist to see if early orthodontic treatment is right for them.
References
- American Association of Orthodontists. (2021). Early Treatment. Retrieved from https://www.aaoinfo.org/parent-s-guide/early-treatment
- Colgate. (n.d.). Early Orthodontics: When Should Your Child See an Orthodontist? Retrieved from https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/braces-and-orthodontics/early-orthodontics-when-should-your-child-see-an-orthodontist-0114
- Harvard Health Publishing. (2018). Straight talk about crooked teeth. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/oral-health/straight-talk-about-crooked-teeth
- Mayo Clinic. (2020). Orthodontics: What it is, and why it's important. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/orthodontics/about/pac-20384681
Further Reading
- American Association of Orthodontists. (2021). Orthodontic Treatment for Children and Adults. Retrieved from https://aaoinfo.org/
- Colgate. (n.d.). Braces and Orthodontics. Retrieved from https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/adult-orthodontics
- WebMD. (2021). Braces and Retainers. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/braces-and-retainers
