What Is the Best Age to Start Orthodontic Treatment? 

You want to make sure that your children will have great oral health. So, you brush their little teeth every night and take them to regular dental appointments to ensure their mouth is cavity-free. But, when should you start worrying about their teeth development? 

Sooner than you may think. 

Your Child's First Orthodontic Visit 

Your child's pediatric dentist will make sure that your little one's teeth are developing properly, but if you want a more thorough assessment, you need to see an orthodontist near you. You can schedule your child's first orthodontic appointment around the age of seven. While it may seem very early since they probably just started losing their baby teeth, the dentist can determine if their permanent ones are growing correctly. If they notice any issues with their teeth or jaw development, the dentist can recommend early orthodontic treatment. 

Also known as Phase 1 orthodontics, this type of treatment is usually recommended when an orthodontic consultation has revealed a serious bite issue or misalignment. 

When Is the Best Age for Orthodontics Treatment? 

If the initial orthodontic consultation didn't reveal any pressing issues, then you can wait until your child loses most of their baby teeth. This usually happens between the ages of 8 and 14. 

Why so early still? 

That's because during this period your child will have lost most of their baby teeth and the dentist can make an accurate assessment of how their adult teeth are growing. Moreover, their jaw is still developing and orthodontic treatment is more successful and effective if done sooner rather than later. 

Early intervention can help treat a variety of dental issues, such as:

• Overbite 
• Underbites 
• Crossbite 
• Open bite
• Crooked teeth 
• Gapped teeth 

Types of Orthodontic Treatment for Kids

A lot of parents ask us if they can opt for Invisalign treatment for their little ones. Clear aligners are recommended only after all of your child's adult teeth have come in. That usually happens at around 12-14 years old. Until then, we will use traditional metal or ceramic braces to correct any alignment issues. 

If your child is over 12 years old and has all their adult teeth, then we can consider Invisalign treatment. 

However, you need to keep in mind that for the treatment to be successful, your kid will have to wear the aligners for about 20 to 22 hours every day and only take them off for eating, drinking anything other than water, and brushing their teeth. Moreover, Invisalign can only correct mild to moderate cases of misalignment. 

If you're not sure your child can comply with the rules that come with Invisalign treatment, it may be best to opt for traditional braces. 

Bring Your Child to Molly Hottenstein Orthodontics

Do you want to make sure that your child will have a beautiful and healthy smile? Bring them to Molly Hottenstein Orthodontics for a consultation with Dr. Molly Hottenstein. 

Get in touch with us online to book your little one's appointment.