What is the Perfect Age To Begin Taking My Child to the Orthodontist?

 

The topic of orthodontics is very popular among adults and children alike nearMontclair, NJ. As a child develops, one of the first things parents may begin to worry about is their child’s oral health. Dr. Robert Lorino of Smiles by Lorino near Montclair, NJ is often getting questions regarding what signs to look out for to determine if a child may eventually need orthodontic attention, and at what age should a child should begin treatment? No two cases are the same, but Dr. Robert Lorino has the answers to a few of the most important questions that you may have below:

When is it best to Begin Treatment?

In many cases, orthodontic issues can be detected early in life. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends all children should get a check-up with an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7.

  • Orthodontists can spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth while baby teeth are still present, predicting possible problems that might arise in the future.
  • While your child’s teeth may appear to be straight, there could be a problem that only an orthodontist, like Dr. Robert Lorino, is able to detect.
  • A check-up with a dentist may reveal that your child’s bite is fine. But an orthodontist specializes in identifying a developing problem that isn’t very noticeable. The doctor will likely  recommend monitoring the child’s growth and development, and then, if indicated, begin orthodontic treatment at a time that is appropriate for the child. In other cases, the orthodontist might find a problem that can benefit from early orthodontic treatment.
  • Early orthodontic treatment may prevent or intercept more serious problems from developing and may make treatment at a later age less time consuming and complicated. A Smiles by Lorino associate says that in some cases, the orthodontist will be able to achieve results that may not be possible once the face and jaws have finished growing, preventing orthodontic treatment later in life.
  • Early treatment will give your orthodontist the chance to:
    • Guide jaw growth
    • Lower the risk of trauma to protruded front teeth
    • Correct harmful oral habits
    • Improve appearance
    • Guide permanent teeth into a more favorable position
    • Create a more pleasing arrangement of teeth, lips and face

Because patients differ in both physiological development and treatment needs, the orthodontist’s goal is to provide each patient with the most appropriate treatment at the most appropriate time. Dr. Robert Lorino says that through an early orthodontic consultation, you’ll be giving your child the best opportunity for a healthy, beautiful smile!

If your child is older than 7, it is never too late for a thorough examination with Dr. Robert Lorino and the team at Smiles by Lorino!

What are the first steps?

If you are interested in children’s orthodontics near Montclair, NJ or surrounding areas, the first step is to contact us! Dr. Robert Lorino and the team will examine your child and discuss which options are best suited to correct their issues. Once you have determined the appropriate treatment plan with Dr. Robert Lorino and the amazing staff at Smiles by Lorino, you will be on the road to the gorgeous smile you have always wanted! We invite you to call Smiles by Lorino to learn more about orthodontic treatment for children near Montclair, NJ at 201.891.7400!