When is the appropriate time to begin orthodontics?
When most people think of Orthodontics, they think of teenagers. However, many children, including those with baby teeth still present, may have developing orthodontic problems that should be corrected early. Drs. Sletten and Brettin have the ability to spot early problems that may go unnoticed by parents or your family dentist. Many of these problems can be detected as early as age 7.
What problems can be detected at an early age?
- Impacted teeth and severe crowding which can only be evaluated from a panoramic x-ray
- Asymmetric jaw growth due to improper fit of back teeth from dental crossbites
- Development of a narrow upper jaw from nasal airway obstruction or oral habits
- Underbite or improper fit of front teeth that can cause abnormal jaw growth or increased tooth wear
- Dental openbites which can lead to tongue-thrusting habits and the development of speech impediments and swallowing problems
- Flared upper teeth that can lead to increased risk of dental trauma
What are the advantages of interceptive treatment?
For some children, available growth can be a powerful advantage in treatment results. Some of the most direct results of interceptive treatment are:
- Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth
- Preventing tooth impaction
- Creating facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth
- Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
- Preserving space for unerupted teeth
- Reducing the need for tooth removal
- Providing sufficient upper airway to promote growth & development
- Reducing treatment time with braces in the future