When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?

Each patient’s circumstances are different — so how do you know if it’s the right time for your child to see an orthodontist? Here’s how you can determine when your child should see an orthodontist.

Reasons for Orthodontic Treatment

There are many reasons why your child might need to see an orthodontist. Perhaps their teeth haven’t grown in straight due to overcrowding, prolonged thumbsucking, a tongue thrust, or a misaligned bite. Orthodontic treatment shifts your child’s teeth to healthier positions so they can eat and talk with ease, smile with confidence, and keep their teeth clean.

When to Start Orthodontic Treatment

We recommend that you bring your child in for a consultation when they are around seven or eight years old. This allows our team to determine if they’re a good candidate for interceptive orthodontic treatment (or early treatment), which prevents the need for more advanced orthodontic treatment in the future.

During this initial consultation, we will check out their teeth and jaw to predict their future oral development and come up with a course of action. For example, your child might need an expander to make room for their adult teeth to grow in or a space maintainer to ward off overcrowding.

Orthodontics at Tots to Teens

At Tots to Teens Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, we offer both dental and orthodontic treatment options for children and young adults. Among our offerings are traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, and Invisalign clear aligner therapy.

• Metal braces are a popular option for children and teens because they are a cost-effective and efficient means of correcting even the most advanced orthodontic issues.
• Ceramic braces offer similar benefits as metal braces, but the clear brackets are more modern and sleek-looking than traditional metal braces.
• Invisalign clear aligners are a discreet option for older patients who can commit to wearing their aligners at least 21-22 hours a day.

Affordable Orthodontist in Laredo, TX

Our team at Tots to Teens Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics would be thrilled to help your child have a healthy, sparkling smile without breaking the bank! If you are thinking about orthodontic treatment for your child, teen, or even yourself, contact us today.

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Categorised in: Braces, Orthodontics