{"id":2689,"date":"2020-10-19T06:00:06","date_gmt":"2020-10-19T10:00:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ortho-tmj.com\/?p=2689"},"modified":"2022-03-03T15:13:35","modified_gmt":"2022-03-03T20:13:35","slug":"early-orthodontic-treatment","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ortho-tmj.com\/early-orthodontic-treatment\/","title":{"rendered":"Early Orthodontic Treatment"},"content":{"rendered":"

When children are in early childhood, many assume the only treatment they need for their teeth is cleanings and maintenance by their dentist. Around 7 years of age, a child\u2019s first adult teeth will start to come in. You may notice their mouth starting to look overcrowded, crooked teeth or an under or overbite. Don\u2019t assume you can wait until they are in their early teens to see an orthodontic clinic.<\/p>\n

It is recommended that children are seen by an orthodontic clinician around age 7 if they are showing signs of orthodontic issues. This will allow the orthodontic clinician to treat any serious concerns like a crossbite, narrow jaw, or protruding teeth that will prevent normal development from progressing. If these issues are identified, then your orthodontic clinician clinician will recommend phase one treatment (or early interceptive treatment) to address any underlying skeletal issues. The chances of correcting overcrowding or a misaligned bite are greater (and treatment is less costly) when orthodontic treatments begin at a younger age. The goal of phase one treatment is to help the jaw develop in a way that will accommodate all of the permanent teeth and improve the way the upper and lower jaws fit together. Children often exhibit early signs of jaw problems as they grow and develop.<\/p>\n