When should you see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontics (AAO) recommends a check-up with an orthodontic specialist, no later than age 7. Orthodontists have extra training (2-3 years) beyond dental school to spot subtle problems with jaw growth and erupting teeth while some baby teeth are present. Even if your child’s teeth appear to be straight, there may be an underlying issue. Most often, your child’s bite is fine and we just watch your child’s growth and development. In other cases, an orthodontist might find an issue that your child can benefit from early treatment.
Should I wait until all permanent teeth have come in?
Baby teeth are placeholders for permanent teeth. Sometimes teeth are like children and don’t follow the rules. Permanent teeth that cannot be seen by the naked eye, may be coming in crooked or may be pressing on an adjacent tooth. Therefore, it is important to have your child evaluated prior to all permanent teeth coming in.
Your first visit to the Orthodontist:
What to expect
Your first visit to Lang & Blackwood Orthodontics is an exciting time! We offer a complimentary consultation, and it’s a chance for you to learn about the treatments and the services we offer. During that initial visit, we determine what treatment is necessary to correct any problems we may find and whether you should begin promptly or wait until a later time.
Our procedure starts by taking some photographs of your teeth in their present state. Next, we will take a digital panograph which enables us to see what’s going on underneath the gums. This information helps Dr. Lang identify the number of teeth, their position and growth of your bones and joints. After that, it’s time for the exam. Dr. Lang will look at the records and images and perform a careful examination. She may ask additional questions such as are there any problems chewing or swallowing. This information will allow Dr. Lang to make a proper diagnosis and finalize her treatment plan. Whether you are starting now or later, she is always here to answer any questions you may have about you or your child’s treatment. When you leave our office we think you will have a better understanding of how we can help you get the best possible smile.
Why do some children get braces early?
Early treatment may help to correct or prevent more serious problems from developing such as skeletal issues. It also may make treatment at a later stage shorter and less complicated.
Early treatment may give your orthodontist the chance to:
• Guide jaw growth
• Lower the risk of trauma to protruded front teeth
• Correct harmful oral habits
• Improve appearance
• Guide permanent teeth into a more favorable position
• Improve the way lips meet
What to look for as a parent:
• Early or late loss of baby teeth
• Mouth breathing
• Crowded, misplaced or blocked out teeth
• Jaws that shift or make sounds
• Speech difficulties
• Teeth that meet abnormally or don’t meet at all
• Biting on cheek or roof of the mouth
• Facial imbalance
• Grinding or clenching of teeth
• Thumb or finger sucking