Advantages Of Interceptive Orthodontics
Some parents believe that it's not necessary to have their child visit the dentist until their permanent teeth begin to come in. Of course, this is far from the best option. Most dentists recommend that children have their first dental examination either when their first tooth comes in or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. With today's preventative dentistry techniques, it's possible to help children keep their primary teeth and gums healthy, avoiding decay and sometimes even misalignment when they are older. Some preventative techniques to keep the teeth healthy are sealants and fluoride. Both of these help to protect the teeth and help avoid decay. Interceptive orthodontics can sometimes help a young child prevent malocclusion, or misalignment of the teeth, from occurring. This is done by treating the problem at a young age, before the situation fully develops.
Though it's recommended that a child have their first dental visit by a year old, it's usually recommended that an orthodontic examination for kids be completed by the time a child's permanent teeth start to come in at seven or eight years of age. This allows the orthodontist time to determine if the child's bite is correct and if the teeth are properly aligned. One of the most common problems that a children's orthodontist sees in young children is tooth crowding. Though this problem is determined while the child still has most of their primary teeth, there are steps that can be taken to possibly prevent the child from needing long term orthodontic treatment when they become older.
Of course, with early treatment, many wonder "how old do you have to be to get braces?" Most orthodontists recommend that braces for kids should not be put on until most of the child's permanent teeth have come in. This is usually around 10 - 14 years of age. If the child's orthodontist feels interceptive orthodontics will be of benefit, most will suggest a younger child use an appliance, such as a retainer to hold the teeth in place and pediatric dentist to prevent further malocclusion from developing.
Though many parents don't think to consider an orthodontic evaluation at a young age, for some it has proved to be beneficial in preventing additional, more severe orthodontic problems in the future. By being proactive and taking steps to prevent further problems, parents can be assured that their child will have straight and aligned teeth as they enter into adulthood.
