Orthodontic treatment can be beneficial at any age. However, there are certain orthodontic problems that should be treated in childhood years to prevent further future problems. We recommend children should start seeing an orthodontist by seven years old to determine what treatments should be considered at the right time, such as palatal expanders and braces.
Incorrect Bite
Healthy teeth are aligned properly not just for cosmetics reasons but also health reasons. Incorrect bites may include:
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Crossbite: the top teeth and bottom teeth do not come together or bite in the correct position
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Open bite: the teeth aren't aligned properly when the jaws are closed.
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Overbite: the top teeth overlap the bottom teeth
Thumb Sucking
Thumb sucking is a common problem in children that can start as early as infant years and the problem should be corrected by the age of four years old to prevent it becoming a habit. If it proceeds after five years old, it can affect even the child’s permanent teeth, such as creating an improper bite and speech problems. This is due to children’s bones being very flexible and can form to the thumbsucking.
Speech & Eating
Orthodontic problems in children can affect speech and eating. The tongue works with the teeth to pronounce words. Treatment during childhood years can correct the position of the teeth for the time being and prevent future problems. When teeth are not aligned and straightened properly, it can also cause pain while eating.
Childhood Teeth Affect Adulthood teeth
We recommend a palatal expander between the ages of 7-13 while the child’s jaw bone is very flexible, soft, and still growing. The palatal expander will work with the child’s growth to expand the jaw as wide as possible to help create a broad, beautiful smile in his or her adult years. When the jaw is widened, it can help guide permanent teeth to erupt properly and cause less problems during phase two, which are braces.