How Early to See an Orthodontist?

Feb 27, 2019

You may be wondering when is the best time to take your child to see an orthodontist for the first time. With a variety of misinformation surrounding the idea, we’ve decided to address the common questions, and misconceptions parents have regarding when to schedule their child’s first orthodontic appointment.

When Should Your Child Have Their Initial Exam?

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should have their initial evaluation with an orthodontist when they reach the age of 7. Although your child may not begin an orthodontic treatment after this initial appointment, it is an excellent way for the orthodontist to identify any developing orthodontic issues or issues that are already present.

The time when your child is transitioning between primary teeth (baby teeth) to permanent teeth is crucial. Your child’s baby teeth set the foundation for your child’s permanent teeth, and also determine their proper positions. This is why having their teeth examined by the age of 7 is crucial, even while they still have baby teeth.

Keep in mind, even if your child’s teeth appear straight, they could still have underlying bite problems.

Signs Your Child May Need Orthodontic Care

Your child’s behavior may also indicate that they need an orthodontic exam. If you have any concerns, it is best to discuss these concerns with your McMurray Orthodontist. It is essential to consult with your orthodontist if your child experiences one or more of the following issues, including but not limited to:

Breathes through their mouth.
Sucks their thumb.
Loses their baby teeth early or late.
Your child clenches or grinds their teeth.
They have difficulty speaking, biting, or chewing.
Teeth that are crowded, blocked or misplaced.
Their jaw shifts or makes sounds.
They bite their cheek or the roof of their mouth.
Their jaws appear to be too far forward or too far back
They have some teeth that meet abnormally or don’t meet at all.

Gentle McMurray Orthodontic Care for Your Child’s Smile!

Our family dental and orthodontic practice welcomes patients of all ages. We focus on early dental care and will work to make sure your child’s first dentist visit is a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Serving the area as the premier McMurray Orthodontist , our gentle, friendly, and efficient staff can take care of your entire family’s dental and orthodontic needs from children and teens, as well as adults!

Contact us today to schedule your appointment.

The post How Early to See an Orthodontist? appeared first on Severns Dentistry and Orthodontics.

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Author: Natalie Severns, DMD

Upon graduating from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Severns specialized in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. She then did an externship in London, England, at the prestigious Guy’s Hospital. At this hospital, she learned top therapies in Dentofacial Orthopedics to provide her patients with the best possible facial esthetics.