Orthodontics for Kids in Del Mar, CA
Orthodontic treatment is most often associated with teenagers, but the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that kids see an orthodontist as early as age seven for evaluation. Early treatment, known as Stage one, usually begins at eight or nine. Stage two, during which the teeth are repositioned, starts at around age 11 or older. While this stage deals with moving the teeth, early treatment deals more with correcting the growth of the jaw and specific bite problems. It essentially sets up the jaw for the success of Stage two. At Sunny Smiles, we offer orthodontic treatment for children, teens, and adults in Del Mar, CA.
Does Your Child Need Early Orthodontic Treatment?
It is recommended that you take your child to a kids orthodontist near you for an evaluation if you observe these signs:
- Early or late loss of baby teeth (which are typically lost at around age five)
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing
- Continued thumb-sucking after age five
- Speech impediment
- Protruding teeth (the top and bottom teeth extend away from each other)
- Teeth that don’t come together in a normal manner or don’t come together at all
- Shifting of the jaw when opening or closing the mouth (crossbite)
- Crowded front teeth around age seven or eight
How Will Early Treatment Benefit My Child?
Orthodontic issues, such as overcrowding, gapped teeth, jaw growth problems, and bad bites, can be caused by an oral injury, early or late loss of baby teeth, and bad oral habits like thumb-sucking. The advantage of receiving orthodontic treatment at a young age is that the jawbones are still developing and growing, making them easier to alter. Early treatment can help prevent the need for orthodontics as an adult and potentially eliminate the need for tooth extraction or oral surgery.
If your child is between the ages of seven and eight and you suspect they may need orthodontic care, make an appointment for a consultation at Sunny Smiles Kids Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics. We can perform an initial exam and discuss the best next steps for your child’s oral health in Del Mar, CA.