Is Early Orthodontic Treatment for Children Necessary?
Your Child’s Evaluation for Peace of Mind & Proper Planning
Parents are usually relieved to learn that “early orthodontics” at Reese Orthodontics is NOT about getting braces, but rather about setting your child up for their best oral development. Did you know that your overall oral health is affected by the alignment and symmetry of your smile, jaw, and face? Your child’s early evaluation for West Ashley braces is not simply for aesthetics, but will help guide the growth and development of your child’s jaw and teeth – and prevent more serious problems later.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that your child’s initial orthodontic evaluation occur by age 7 – the time when adult teeth are coming in. At Reese Orthodontics, we evaluate erupting teeth to detect issues like an overbite, open bite, crowding, or gummy smiles. This enables us to see if your child will benefit from early treatment, instead of risking potential problems down the road, when prevention is too late. Beginning treatment at this optimal time not only ensures the greatest result but also means less time and expense down the road.
Have questions about early treatment for your child? Reese Orthodontics is available to answer any question you may have about the process!
Signs Your Child Needs an Orthodontic Assessment
According to our orthodontic expert, treatment at this early stage may not even be necessary. However, it is especially important to schedule a screening with our board-certified specialist, Dr. Reese, if you notice any of the following conditions in your child:
- Crowded or misplaced teeth
- Difficulty in chewing or biting food
- Early loss of baby teeth
- Mouth breathing
- Finger or thumb sucking
- Jaws that “pop” when opening and closing
- Misaligned teeth that close abnormally or without touching
- Jaws and teeth that are not in proportion to the rest of the face
What Is the Benefit of Early Treatment?
While Dr. Reese says parents don’t need to rush into West Ashley braces for their young children, certain oral health issues can be avoided with early screening and treatment, including:
- Open bites – when the upper and lower teeth don’t touch when the jaws are closed
- Crossbites – when the two rows of teeth don’t meet correctly. A misaligned bite can cause tooth decay, gum disease, stress on the jaw muscles, headaches, and more.
- Speech impediments
- Injury to protruding teeth
Your Child’s Evaluation for West Ashley Braces is FREE at Reese Orthodontics
To learn more about early treatment or West Ashley braces for your child, schedule your child’s complimentary Dr. Reese Smile Analysis by calling 843.573.7279 or by clicking here for our convenient online appointment form. Regardless of the outcome, after consulting with Dr. Reese parents often feel reassured about their child’s overall oral health. They also appreciate having the opportunity to learn about cutting-edge orthodontic treatment options – for now or in the future. Call Reese Orthodontics at 843.573.7279 and let us put your mind at ease!
As one of the premier orthodontic practices in West Ashley, SC, our team at Reese Orthodontics also provides 5-star-rated children’s orthodontic care to patients from Charleston, North Charleston, Hanahan, Goose Creek, Hollywood, Johns Island, Downtown Charleston, Mount Pleasant, James Island & Daniel Island, SC.
