The American Association of Orthodontists recommends visiting the orthodontist around age 7. By this age, most children have a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth, making it easier to diagnose and correct tooth and jaw problems sooner.
Starting orthodontic treatment early helps correct and guide the growth of your child’s jaw as well as aid in permanent teeth coming in without getting stuck or delayed. Early treatment also can help correct thumb sucking and potentially improve minor speech problems.
correct thumb sucking and potentially improve minor speech problems. As a parent, there are signs and behaviors you can look for to know if it’s time to see an orthodontist. You might see obvious crowded teeth that don’t line up properly, but watch your child for other lesser known signs such as:
• Mouth breathing
• Sleep issues
• Lip entrapment
• Speech impediments
• New finger or thumb sucking
• Jaws that pop or make sounds when opening and closing
• A hard time chewing or biting into foods
Consultations at our office are free. There’s quite a bit we can tell from an exam and your insight as a parent. Summertime is perfect for arranging this first and important step toward keeping your child smiling for life.
This smile is brought to you by:
Wade L. Haslam, DMD, PC
2657 NW Rolling Green Drive Corvallis | 541.757.2440 valleyvieworthodontics.com
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