Why Are More Young Kids Getting Braces Now? By Your Favorite Wellington, FL Orthodontist
Have you noticed that it seems like more and more young children are getting braces? Early orthodontic treatment can be extremely beneficial in many cases. As with most cases of orthodontic treatment, your unique situation should be evaluated and a customized treatment plan prepared cooperatively with you by your Wellington, FL orthodontist.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive an evaluation from a Wellington orthodontic specialist no later than age seven. In many cases, early treatment from your orthodontist in Wellington, FL can be beneficial to the development of a child’s jaw structure as well as helping to correct early onset problems. In orthodontics, timing is everything. Starting braces at the right time can shorten the time in, cost, and complexity of treatment.
What Are the Benefits for Early Orthodontic Treatment?
Certain problems and bad habits can be treated through early orthodontic treatment. Some of those bad habits include thumb sucking and nighttime tooth grinding, both of which can further damage teeth, jaw development, and growth over time.
One other major benefit of early braces is improving misalignment of the jaw, which is especially true for children with an underbite. During a small window between ages seven and ten, the jaws can be corrected if the upper jaw is too small or the lower jaw is too large. This treatment process makes it easier for the top teeth to fit over the bottom teeth as they’re supposed to. This can also lead to broader, more beautiful smiles.
Last but definitely not least, another benefit is that certain things such as nasal breathing and speech issues can be improved through early treatment. Some children may develop speech problems due to crowding, misaligned bites, or crookedness. Oftentimes, early treatment can help lessen the overall amount of time your child has to spend in treatment with your Wellington orthodontist. However, in many cases, treatment will take place in two phases.
In many cases in the US, children have fairly severe misalignment or other issues, like a crossbite or open bite from thumb sucking. These issues, addressed early on, will help your child develop a normal, healthy smile that ultimately makes it easier for them to brush and take care of their teeth, improving their oral hygiene.
Are There Drawbacks to Seeking Treatment Early?
As with any kind of long-term medical treatment, some children may not need early treatment while others may. This is where having an honest, straight-forward relationship with your Wellington orthodontist comes in. You should be able to trust that your orthodontist is being open and honest with you, listening to your concerns, and giving you all of the necessary information you need for proper, lasting treatment.
Some children may need two separate phases of treatment, which can also sometimes be beneficial while not making as much of an impact in other cases. Again, your orthodontist in Wellington, FL should give you all of the necessary information for you to make the best possible decision for your child and his or her unique orthodontic needs.
Are you ready to learn more about how we can help you or your child achieve an amazing smile? Give us a call at one of our two locations to schedule your Petrover Smile Analysis today!
This information is not meant as medical advice. It is provided solely for education. Our Wellington orthodontics office would be pleased to discuss your unique circumstances and needs as they relate to these topics.
Get The Smile You’ve Always Dreamed Of!
Petrover Orthodontics can help you or your loved one achieve a smile that benefits dental health as much as it increases confidence. However, we want you to feel confident that your choice in an orthodontist in Wellington & Boynton Beach, Florida (FL) is the right one. Follow the steps below to start your journey towards the smile you’ve always dreamed of!
- Instantly download our FREE Report: Top 10 Things You Need to Know Before Choosing an Orthodontist.
- Call (561) 795-3055 to ask questions or set up your free Petrover Smile Assessment!
- Contact our Wellington or Boynton Beach, FL orthodontic office via our online form.