When Should I Take My Child To The Orthodontist?
Many parents believe that they need to take their kids to an orthodontist only if they observe that their teeth are not aligned properly. However, this is not a correct assumption. By the time parents observe misalignment or other orthodontic issues in their child’s teeth, they are already in need of braces for correcting the issue. On the other hand, if parents take their kids to see an orthodontist during their early years, orthodontists can detect underlying issues well before they cause significant issues. In such cases, a significant component of the orthodontic issues can be corrected using functional appliances, with minimal need for braces or clear aligners later.
But what is the ideal age to bring my kids to an orthodontic specialist? You may ask. This is one of the most commonly asked questions by parents who are concerned about their child’s oral health and tooth alignment. That is why we will discuss in detail the ideal age when a child should be seen by their orthodontist for the first time. So, continue reading to learn more about early orthodontic visits and their importance.
How Often Should A Parent Take Their Children For Dental Checks?
The NHS recommends that children should be taken for their first dental ceckup as soon as their first tooth appears. Afterwards, parents should bring their kids for regular checkups after every six months. However, for kids who are at high risk of developing tooth decay or have inflamed gums, it is recommended that they should be brought in for checkups every 3 months until their oral health is restored.
When Should Be The First Dental Visit Of A Child?
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a child’s first dental checkup visit should happen within six months of the eruption of their first milk tooth, or by age 1. Early dental visits, especially when a child is growing their milk teeth helps the dentists diagnose any underlying issues or abnormal habits, such as thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or nail biting, and take appropriate measures to correct them.
Which Is The Right Age To Get Teeth Braces For Uneven Teeth?
Although orthodontic treatment can be given to patients at any age, getting one’s teeth straightened at an early age has its advantages. For example, at a young age, the bones are more flexible and it is easier to move and realign the teeth. Furthermore, dentists can also utilise the growth spurt in kids to favourably redirect jaw growth, thereby reducing the time needed to wear braces. Therefore, the NHS recommends that the idea age for kids to begin orthodontic treatment with braces is 12 or 13. This is the age when most of the milk teeth in a child have been replaced with their permanent successors. However, sometimes orthodontists choose to begin treatment at an early age using functional appliances.
What Are The Benefits Of Seeing A Pediatric Dentist Early?
A pediatric dentist specialises in diagnosing and treating dental problems in kids. When parents bring their kids to see a pediatric dentist, this allows the dentists to diagnose underlying issues before they can cause permanent damage. For example, pediatric dentists can:
- Diagnose tooth decay caused by bottle feeding
- Detect abnormal habits – like thumb sucking that can cause misalignment of the teeth later in life
- Teach the kids how to brush their teeth properly
- Guide parents regarding tooth-friendly diet for their kids.
What Are The Tips For Child’s Dental Health?
Good dental care habits learned by kids remain with them lifelong. Therefore, parents must ensure that their kids brush their teeth at least twice day. More importantly, they should learn the correct method of brushing their teeth. In addition, parents must ensure that their kids eat a healthy diet and rich in fruits, vegetables, and essential nutrients. Finally, parents must bring their kids for regular dental checkups so that undelrying issues can be corrected timely.
At What Age Should A Child First Visit An Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that parents should bring their kids for their first orthodontic checkup when they turn 7, or at the time when they observe an orthodontic issue – which can be earlier. This will help the orthodontist determine whether a child will need braces or aligners later in life. In case a child needs orthodontic treatment, an early visit will help the dentist determine the right age for starting treatment.
Why Is Orthodontic Treatment Necessary For Children?
We all know that straight and perfectly aligned teeth are essential for having a beautiful smile. But did you also know that straight teeth are also necessary for helping us eat and speak properly. So, if a child has misaligned teeth, parents should get them straightened as soon as possible, as it can directly affect their child’s oral health and physical well-being.
Can You Get Braces With Eight Missing Baby Teeth?
Dentists usually begin orthodontic treatment when a child has growth most of their permanent teeth. So, if a child has a few baby teeth missing, they will not a hurdle to their treatment. What is more important is the presence of the permanent teeth.
If you are concerned about your child’s crooked teeth and looking for an experienced and renowned orthodontic practice in Surrey, Smile 101 is the best option for you. We boast a team of highly qualified dental professionals and state-of-the-art facilities to ensure that your kid enjoys the best dental health and a set of pearly white, perfectly aligned teeth. So, what are you waiting for? Book an appointment today and let us keep your entire family healthy and smiling.