Orthodontic treatment is often associated with teenagers, but did you know that early evaluation and care can set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles? At Pingree Smile Center, we believe early orthodontic assessments are crucial in guiding proper jaw growth, preventing severe misalignment, and reducing the need for extensive treatment later on. In this blog, we’ll dive into why early orthodontic care matters, when to start, and how it benefits your child’s overall dental health.
Early orthodontic care, also called interceptive orthodontics, refers to the assessment and potential treatment of dental issues in children as young as age 7. This doesn’t necessarily mean braces at this age—instead, it focuses on monitoring growth patterns, guiding jaw development, and addressing any issues that could worsen over time.
By age 7, most children have a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth. This transitional period allows orthodontists to detect potential problems such as:
Identifying these concerns early allows orthodontists to plan timely interventions that can simplify or even shorten later treatment.
A child’s jawbones are still developing, which makes them easier to guide into proper alignment. Devices such as palatal expanders can widen the upper jaw, helping prevent crowding and crossbites.
Early correction of protruding front teeth reduces the risk of chips or trauma from accidents during childhood activities.
Treating noticeable misalignment issues early on can boost your child’s confidence and help them feel good about their smile.
Addressing developing issues can prevent the need for more invasive procedures, such as extractions or jaw surgery, in adolescence or adulthood.
Early orthodontic care may include:
The first visit usually involves:
Even if no immediate treatment is needed, regular check-ins allow the orthodontist to monitor changes as your child grows.
At Pingree Smile Center, our team combines gentle care with advanced technology to provide precise diagnoses and personalized treatment plans. We focus on creating a comfortable, welcoming environment for children, so they can build positive relationships with dental care early in life.
We take time to explain each step of the process, answer your questions, and partner with you in supporting your child’s health.
Early orthodontic care isn’t just about straightening teeth—it’s about guiding proper development, preventing complications, and ensuring your child grows up with a healthy, confident smile. If your child is around age 7 and hasn’t yet seen an orthodontist, now is the perfect time to schedule an evaluation.
Contact Pingree Smile Center today to learn more or book your child’s first orthodontic assessment.
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