Early orthodontic treatment can help to correct common problems with your child’s developing mouth and jaw such as overcrowding, misaligned teeth, and incorrect bites. This type of treatment is designed to intercept developing dental issues early on, helping to reduce the severity of any potential problems that may arise in the future.
Starting orthodontic treatment early on can greatly reduce the risk of future dental problems. If you’re considering early orthodontic treatment for your child, consult your dentist to see if it is right for them.
What Is the Best Age To Start Early Orthodontic Treatment?
The best age to start early orthodontic treatment is between 7 and 10 years old. At this young age, jawbones are still developing and malleable, making it easier for a dentist or orthodontist to make adjustments. It’s also important to note that if your child shows signs of needing early orthodontic treatment before 7 years old, it’s important to see a dentist or orthodontist as soon as possible.
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment
Early orthodontic treatment can provide a multitude of benefits for your child’s developing mouth. Here are some of the most common benefits:
Prevents Long-Term Dental Issues
Early treatment may reduce the need for more extensive and costly treatments later. Addressing potential problems early, such as overcrowding of teeth, crooked teeth, or an incorrect bite, helps prevent further issues from developing. It also prevents early tooth loss, which can lead to other dental issues.
Improves Confidence
Being confident in the way your teeth look can give a boost to your child’s self-confidence and make them more likely to smile and laugh. This also allows them to interact more comfortably with their peers which is important for early childhood development.
Corrects Speech Problems
Misaligned teeth and incorrect bites can cause speech impediments such as lisping. Early orthodontic treatment can correct this and improve the clarity of your child’s speech.
Saves Time and Money
If dental problems are left untreated, they can become more complicated and expensive as time goes on. By intervening early, orthodontic treatments can be shorter and less expensive. It can reduce the need for more extensive and costly treatments later.
Improves Digestion
Early orthodontic treatment can help correct issues with chewing, swallowing, and speaking. Having straight teeth and an aligned jaw allows your child to easily chew their food. Breaking food down into smaller pieces is best for their digestion, which helps their development.
Disadvantages of Early Orthodontic Treatment
While early orthodontic treatment can provide many benefits, there are some potential drawbacks. Although early orthodontic treatment can save costs in the long term, they can be quite expensive to go ahead with. It can be time-consuming for you and your child as treatment may require frequent visits. The results of the treatment can be inconclusive and require further treatment, this is why it is always best to consult a dentist or orthodontist early on.
What Is The Fastest Orthodontic Treatment?
The fastest orthodontic treatment is Invisalign, which uses clear aligners to move teeth into the desired position gently. The average treatment time with Invisalign is 6-18 months, depending on the case’s complexity. It is removable, so it does not interfere with hygiene or activities. Invisalign is often only recommended for mild orthodontic issues.
Early Orthodontics: Braces Treatment Method
Most people don’t need braces until they are teenagers, but sometimes early orthodontic treatment is necessary. If your child’s teeth are crooked or crowded, your dentist may recommend braces even if your child is still young.
Braces are the most common type of orthodontic treatment and involve using metal brackets, wires, and bands to move teeth into position. Traditional braces remain in place for an average of 18-30 months, depending on the complexity of the case.
Ceramic braces use tooth-coloured materials instead of metal and can also be used for early treatment. Lingual braces are attached to the back side of the teeth, making them less visible and ideal for early treatments.
Should You Get Your Child Early Orthodontic Treatment?
Early orthodontic treatment can be expensive, but it can be worth it to have a healthy, beautiful smile and reduce the need for more invasive treatments in the future.
Ultimately, you should speak to a dentist or orthodontist as they will be able to assess the condition of your child’s teeth and recommend if they would benefit from early treatments.
