Orthodontics for children

What age should a child first see an orthodontist?

The recommended age for a child to first see an orthodontist is 7 years. It’s unlikely that the child will undergo treatment at this age, but it’s a great time for the orthodontist to assess the child’s development and potential development in order to isolate any orthodontic issues early.

What are the signs that a child might need orthodontic treatment? 

  • Early or late loss of their baby teeth
  • Difficulties chewing or biting
  • The child is a thumb or finger sucker
  • Crowded teeth
  • The jaws are not aligned
  • Jaw and the teeth aren’t proportional to the face

What options are available for children?

If early treatment is required then the orthodontist is likely to do one of the following, possibly ahead of further treatment when the child is older:

  • Jaw correction
  • Regulate the arches
  • Create space for crowded teeth
  • Correct thumb-sucking
  • Help improve minor speech problems

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