Early Orthodontic Treatment in Springfield, MO
When Should My Child See a Pediatric Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this stage, Dr. Robert Becker and Dr. Craig Scott can assess the development of your child’s teeth and jaw to determine if early intervention is needed and the proper time for braces for kids. Many general dentists are trained to recognize orthodontic issues and may refer your child to our office even before age 7 if they notice concerns.
Why Start Evaluations So Early?
Early orthodontic assessments allow us to identify potential issues before they become more serious. Early intervention can help:
Guide emerging teeth into better positions
Maintain space for permanent teeth
Lower the risk of damage to protruding front teeth
If treatment is necessary, Dr. Becker and Dr. Scott can help guide jaw growth, regulate dental arch width, and create space for incoming teeth. Early orthodontic care can also help prevent extractions, reduce the chances of impacted teeth, and correct habits like thumb sucking or abnormal swallowing. Overall, it lays the foundation for a smoother and more effective treatment plan as your child grows.
Does Every Child Benefit from Early Orthodontic Treatment?
Not all orthodontic concerns require early intervention. Some conditions are best treated during adolescence when permanent teeth have fully erupted. If immediate treatment isn’t necessary, we monitor your child’s growth through our Orthodontic Supervisory Program to determine the ideal time to begin care.
What is the Orthodontic Supervisory Program?
This complimentary program is designed for children who don’t require immediate treatment. By tracking their dental development, we can recommend minor interventions, like the strategic removal of baby teeth, to create a better environment for emerging adult teeth. Routine monitoring, every 6 to 8 months, helps us determine the best time to start treatment if needed, ensuring the most effective and efficient results.
Additional Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
Braces do more than straighten teeth! Orthodontic care can:
Improve bite function and overall oral health
Make daily cleaning easier, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease
Prevent premature wear and tear on teeth
Support long-term dental health
Will Early Treatment Eliminate the Need for Braces for Kids Later On?
While early treatment can correct significant issues and make future orthodontic care easier, it doesn’t always eliminate the need for braces later. In many cases, a shorter second phase of treatment (Phase II) may be required during adolescence to fine-tune tooth alignment once all permanent teeth have emerged.
Should My Child Still See a Dentist During Orthodontic Treatment?
Absolutely! Maintaining regular dental check-ups is essential throughout orthodontic care. Since braces and appliances require extra attention to keep teeth and gums healthy, we recommend seeing your family dentist every six months for cleanings and exams.
