The American Academy of Orthodontists recommends that all children be seen for an orthodontic evaluation around age seven. We know what you're thinking... that's too young! Before you start doing mental calcuations of the orthodontic bills you'll have to pay for your young child, let us explain. There's good reason for the early start and you might find Invisalng is a great option.
At age seven, children have a mix of baby and adult teeth, and a dentist or orthodontist can gain a lot of helpful information in the initial evaluation about how a child's jaw and teeth are developing. They may also pinpoint subtle issues that need to be addressed.
That said, an early evaluation doesn't necessarily mean that the child will need treatment. Sometimes no treatment is needed or the orthodontist may postpone treatment until the child is older. In other instances, the orthodontist may recommend beginning treatment and doing so can actually shorten overall treatment time and head off issues before they become big problems. Some treatments wouldn't even be possible (or would be much more difficult) once the child is older and permanent teeth are in place.
Have questions or want to learn more? Contact our cosmetic dental office - we look forward to hearing from you.
