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“Why does my 7-year-old need braces when they only have a few adult teeth?” This is a common question we hear daily in our practices. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist by age 7. While the majority of children at this age do not need any early orthodontic treatment, a significant percentage do need what is called “early interceptive orthodontic treatment.”
The key word here is “interceptive,” meaning that orthodontic treatment at this early age is intercepting a problem that, left untreated, would require more extensive treatment later or not be able to be treated with orthodontics alone. By correcting a problem early, you can avoid more extensive treatment later, which may include extractions and possible jaw surgery.
Why Early Orthodontics May Be Necessary
Most of the problems treated through early orthodontics are due to a “growth problem.” The upper and lower jaws are not growing at the same rate or in the same direction, or one is too small, or one is larger than the other. These types of problems are the reason we treat children as early as age 7.
The Most Common Issues
Here is an overview of the problems that would be best corrected early (before all the adult teeth are in place.)
Severe Crowding of the Teeth
Your child has lost some baby teeth, and the adult teeth that are coming in are sideways, up to high, behind other teeth, or maybe not coming in at all. Instead of removing baby and adult teeth, your child can have early treatment that will make room for all the adult teeth and, therefore, save them from any extractions of baby and adult teeth.
A Crossbite
This is when the lower jaw shifts to one side. You may notice that your child chews funny or that their face appears slightly off center when they are biting down. A crossbite is usually a problem with the growth of the upper jaw and is best corrected before age 10.
An Underbite
The lower jaw bites in front of the upper jaw. This type of bite problem is caused by a growth problem in the upper jaw and is best corrected during a child’s active growth phase. This type of problem, if not treated early, will often result in jaw surgery as a young adult.
Thumbsucking
A thumb or finger-sucking habit, severe tongue thrust, or other oral habits. Most children who suck their thumbs and/or fingers for a prolonged period of time will cause some deformation of the shape of the upper jaw. This alteration in the shape of the upper jaw can cause crowding problems, airway problems, and bite problems. A simple, fixed appliance is generally used to correct this persistent habit.
Sever Mouthbreathing
Severe mouthbreathing, grinding of the teeth, or airway issues. All these are related to your child’s jaw growth and development. Again, it is a growth problem that is best corrected early while your child is still growing.
Severe Overbites
Depending on the severity of your child’s overbite, this can be corrected early with the use of removable retainers. With excellent cooperation, these removable retainers will often eliminate the need for more extensive orthodontic work later.
If your child has any of the above problems, you do not need a referral from your family dentist. You can call an Orthodontist directly and make an appointment for a consultation. Even if you are not sure, a consultation with an orthodontic specialist will give you an overview of your child’s current growth and development and valuable insight into any future orthodontic needs that your child may have.
Get Ahead of the Game With Early Orthodontics!
Don’t wait for problems to escalate! Call us at (530) 274-4411. If you notice any signs of misalignment or growth issues in your child's smile, schedule a free consultation with Cater Galante Orthodontics today. Early intervention can make all the difference in achieving a healthy, beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime.
