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Early Orthodontics: Giving Your Child’s Smile a Head Start

Are you wondering when your child should see an orthodontist? You might be surprised to learn that early orthodontic treatment can make a big difference in your child’s smile and overall oral health. Let’s explore why child orthodontics in Palos Hills is so important and how it can benefit your little one.

Why Consider Early Orthodontic Treatment?

Early orthodontics isn’t just about getting a pretty smile – it’s about setting your child up for a lifetime of good oral health. The American Association of Orthodontists suggests that kids should have their first orthodontic check-up by age 7. Why so young? Here are a number of the reasons:

  • Catch Orthodontic Problems Early: At 7 years of age, your child’s first permanent teeth have usually come in. This gives orthodontists a chance to spot any issues early on.
  • Easier to Fix: Young kids’ jaws are still growing, making them more flexible. This means early orthodontic treatment can be more effective and often easier than waiting until later.
  • Prevent Future Troubles: Fixing problems like crossbites or overbites early can help avoid more complicated (and expensive!) treatments down the road.

Benefits of Early Orthodontics

Some of the benefits of early orthodontic intervention include:

  • More Room for Teeth: Early treatment can make space for teeth that haven’t come in yet, preventing overcrowding.
  • Better Face Shape: By guiding jaw growth, early orthodontics can help create a more balanced facial appearance.
  • Fewer Tooth Extractions: Early intervention often means less need to pull teeth later.
  • Shorter Braces Time: Starting early can mean less time wearing braces as a teenager.

What Happens During Early Orthodontic Treatment?

When you bring your child to our clinic in Palos Hills for early treatment, here’s what you can expect:

  • Thorough Examination: Dr. DiFranco will look at your child’s teeth, jaw, and bite.
  • X-rays and Images: These help us see what’s happening beneath the gums.
  • Treatment Plan: If needed, Dr. DiFranco will create a plan tailored to your child’s needs.
  • Regular Check-ups: Even if no immediate treatment is needed, we will monitor your child’s growth to catch any future issues.

Childhood Orthodontics: More Than Just Braces

Early orthodontic treatment isn’t always about getting braces right away. Sometimes it involves:

  • Space Maintainers: These help keep space open for adult teeth to come in properly.
  • Palatal Expanders: These gently widen the upper jaw to make room for crowded teeth.
  • Removable Appliances: These can help guide jaw growth or move specific teeth.

When to See an Orthodontist

While age 7 is a good general rule, you might want to see an orthodontist earlier if you notice:

  • Early or late loss of baby teeth
  • Difficulty chewing or biting
  • Mouth breathing
  • Thumb sucking after age 5
  • Crowded, misplaced, or blocked-out teeth

Remember, every child is different. Some might need early treatment, while others might not need orthodontic care until their teens. The key is to get that first check-up to know where your child stands and what treatment if any, is needed.

Early Orthodontics

Early Orthodontics in Palos Hills – Taking the First Step

Ready to give your child’s smile a head start? At Paul DiFranco Orthodontics in Palos Hills, we’re here to help with early orthodontic treatment, including accepting most dental insurance plans. Our team understands child orthodontics and can guide you through every step of the process.

Don’t wait to set your child on the path to a healthy, beautiful smile. Contact us today at 708-930-5941 for a free consultation and evaluation. Let’s work together to give your child the gift of a confident smile that will last a lifetime!