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The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that all children get a check-up with an orthodontist no later than age seven because, while your child's teeth may appear to be straight, there could be a problem that only an orthodontist can detect. Frequently, bad bites are present behind what may seem like acceptable smiles. While treatment may not begin until years later, early examination allows your orthodontist to detect and evaluate problems, as well as plan appropriate treatment. In some cases early treatment may be initiated to prevent more serious problems from developing later on and may often make treatment at a later age shorter or less complicated. Why Should my Child Visit the Orthodontist? Orthodontists can spot subtle problems with your jaw growth and emerging teeth while some baby teeth are still present. While your child's teeth may appear to be straight, there may be an underlying problem that only your orthodontist can detect. Early treatment may prevent or intercept more serious problems from developing. This may make treatment easier later on and less complicated for your child. In some cases, the orthodontist will be able to achieve results that may not be possible once the face and jaws have finished growing to their potential. It may also 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
• Create a more pleasing arrangement of teeth A check-up may reveal that your child's bite is fine, or a problem may be identified. Your orthodontist will recommend monitoring your child's growth and development. If indicated, treatment may begin at the appropriate time for your child. In other cases, your orthodontist may find a problem that will benefit from early treatment. The Evaluation During your first, initial visit your orthodontist may use several methods to develop an individualized treatment plan that includes:
• Oral, facial and functional examination
• Intraoral and facial photographs
• Panoramic and cephalometric X-rays
• Impressions for models of the teeth and bite Your orthodontist will review your dental records, perform a clinical assessment, take X-rays of your mouth and head and make models of your teeth by creating an accurate impression of them. The results of your evaluation are studied in order to formulate the best orthodontic treatment plan for your individual needs. A second visit will typically consist of a review of your treatment plan and estimation of the number of months for the active phase of your treatment. The duration of your treatment varies based on your age, the extensiveness of the procedure and how closely you follow your treatment plan. The sooner you visit your orthodontist, the better your treatment process will be. If you notice any problems with the layout of your teeth, a consultation with your orthodontist may be needed. It is important to have your teeth evaluated, to receive adequate and appropriate treatment.
Sean Hartmen writes for Dr. Stanley Markovitz, a leading Baltimore Invisalign dentist and elite premier provider of Invisalign. Offering expertise in all phases of orthodontia, including braces and Invisalign, this Invisalign orthodontist in Baltimore offers outstanding care for patients of every age.
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