Image

Kids and the Orthodontist: Is it Time?

January 14, 2016

Orthodontics

From the moment that first baby tooth erupts, your child’s teeth require proper care to stay healthy. You already know your child needs to brush and floss daily and see her dentist twice a year for cleanings and exams.

But some children’s teeth need extra care – with the help of an orthodontist. So when should your child see an orthodontist – and how do you know if she needs one?

Dentists can spot problems early

During a routine dental exam, your child’s dentist can look for potential problems like crooked teeth, a misaligned jaw, or problems with your child’s bite. This is one more reason your child should see her dentist regularly. Your dentist can often spot things that only his or her trained eye can detect.

If your dentist sees a potential problem, your child will likely be referred to an orthodontist for further evaluation and treatment. An orthodontist specializes in straightening teeth and correcting bites that don’t align properly.

Typically, a dentist will send a child to an orthodontist between the ages of 8 and 14 – but some as early as 6 or 7. This is when potential problems are most likely to be detected during a dental exam. The American Dental Association says some bite and teeth misalignments are best treated at younger ages, while your child is still growing. But, even teenagers and adults can have teeth and jaw problems successfully corrected by an orthodontist – so it’s never too late.

More than a cosmetic dentistry issue

 

Some parents wonder if their child really needs to see an orthodontist so soon if the child isn’t bothered by his crooked teeth. After all, braces might be uncomfortable – so why not just wait a few years? But correcting crooked teeth or a misaligned bite benefits much more than just your child’s appearance. Teeth that aren’t properly aligned can be more difficult to keep clean, leading to cavities, gum disease, speech problems, and even tooth loss. A misaligned jaw can lead to pain or other jaw issues too.

If your child’s dentist spots a potential issue that can be treated by an orthodontist, don’t delay. Most orthodontist will see your child for a consultation and talk with you about potential treatments before you move forward. This way, you can get the proper information to put your mind at ease and make an informed decision about your child’s treatment.

Healthy mouth, healthy child

A healthy mouth is an important part of good overall health for children and adults. Just as your child needs to see his physician regularly for checkups, he needs the care of a dentist to ensure his teeth and jaw are healthy too.

Your dentist is an important part of your family’s health care team. Call your child’s dentist at Palm Valley Dental in Edinburg today to set up your child’s cleaning and exam.

Patients love it here

Image
My husband and I visited Palm Valley Dental and Orthodontics and it was a rewarding experience. Dr. Torres and Dr. Trevino are so patient, knowledgeable and professional. Caleb, the Dental Hygienist is also very thorough and courteous. The office staff are so pleasant and helpful as well.
Image
Image

Adalia De Luna

Image
Literally, the first time ever at dentist, went in terrified, left informed on my dental care/plan, and scheduled my return visit for the in depth cleaning. Overall, great experience, staff & doctor were attentive, professional and very receptive to all my questions and even the nervousness I displayed.
Image
Image

Sandra Palomo

Image
I love this place. Aside from the amazing and comprehensive dental services, customer service and my time are really important to me. It is rare to find everything I care about in one place.
Image
Image

Karla DeWald

Image
Dr. Treviño and staff are wonderful!! Very clean environment. Dr is so good I had a filling adjustment without being numbed up!! If that doesn't tell you how good they are, I don't know what will!!
Image
Image

Issa Garcia

Image
I love this place. Aside from the amazing and comprehensive dental services, customer service and my time are really important to me. It is rare to find everything I care about in one place.
Image
Image

Karla DeWald

Image
After experiencing a few negative experiences at a previous dental practice, I cautiously decided to try this new dental place. I had a wonderful first visit here and felt a great relief after my appointment. Everyone I encountered was so kind and friendly, and all my concerns and questions were addressed. I highly recommend. 😊
Image
Image

Sandy