Orthodontics for children

Orthodontics for children

While orthodontic treatment can improve smiles at any age, there may be an optimal time for individual patients to begin treatment in order to achieve maximum improvement in a minimum amount of time.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that a child’s first visit to an orthodontist takes place no later than age seven if an orthodontic problem is detected. Depending on the type of problem, this first visit could take place as early as age four to six.

Sometimes, malocclusions are present behind seemingly acceptable smiles. And while treatment may not be started until years later, early examination allows the orthodontist to detect and evaluate problems and plan appropriate treatment at the optimum time. In some cases, early treatment may be initiated to prevent more serious problems from developing. This early intervention may make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated.

Your orthodontist will design a unique treatment plan for each and every child which will be determined from a clinical, photographic and x-ray examination. Following the diagnosis of your child’s specific problems, a bespoke treatment plan will be designed.

Braces that are typically used in treating children: