The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist as early as age seven. At this stage of development, we will be able to see the relationship of the teeth to the rest of the mouth and determine foreseeable issues down the line.
If our team determines that a child needs early treatment, we can more readily correct the growth of the jaw or a bite problem such as an overbite. By addressing issues early, Dr. Hutta and Dr. Price can ensure your son or daughter’s teeth come in properly.
- Your child is losing teeth earlier or later than normal (ideally the baby teeth begin to fall out at age five, and permanent teeth are in place around age thirteen)
- Your child has a difficult or painful time chewing and biting
- Your child is an excessive mouth-breather
- Thumb-sucking persists after age five
- Your child has a speech impediment
- Your child’s top teeth and bottom teeth point away from each other (a condition known as protruding teeth)
- Your child has an abnormal bite
Why Does My Young Child Have Orthodontic Problems?
Many factors can contribute to orthodontic problems at a young age. Teeth crowing, too much space between teeth, jaw alignment and growth problems, and other issues can be a factor in your child’s orthodontic health. Many fixable problems are inherited or caused by injury to the mouth.
The most important thing you can do for your child if you notice or suspect an abnormality is to take her or him to see Dr. Hutta and Dr. Price. Don’t know where to start? Your family dentist will likely have a recommendation.
It’s worthwhile to address orthodontic problems as soon as they arise, because orthodontic care for children can help prevent painful and long-term consequences down the line when they’re adults. Early orthodontic treatment also instills the habit of oral hygiene, which plays a major role in dental health for the duration of the person’s life.
Your child will also become part of our Growin’ Grins Club, which grants him or her complimentary follow-up visits that monitor development until a treatment plan becomes necessary.