Orthodontic treatment is not just about getting a beautiful smile; it’s about promoting long-term dental health. Early orthodontic evaluation, typically recommended by age seven, can have significant benefits. That’s why we recommend booking a consultation with our orthodontist in Ann Arbor, MI.
Here are 10 reasons why parents might consider early orthodontic treatment.
1. Improving Tooth Alignment and Spacing
Early orthodontic intervention can address crowding, spacing issues, or misalignments as a child’s mouth grows and develops. This can set the stage for a healthier bite and more aesthetically pleasing alignment as adult teeth come in.
2. Guiding Jaw Growth
Our Ann Arbor orthodontist can influence jaw growth in a growing child, correcting discrepancies in the jaw’s relationship. This not only improves the child’s profile but also ensures that there is adequate space for the emerging permanent teeth.
3. Preventing Tooth Extraction
Early orthodontic treatment often makes it possible to avoid tooth extractions later. By managing the space in a child’s mouth, our orthodontist can help permanent teeth erupt more favorably, thus eliminating the need for extraction as part of later corrective procedures.
4. Reducing Risk of Trauma to Protruding Front Teeth
Children with protruding front teeth are at a higher risk for injuries during falls or sports. Early orthodontic treatment can realign these teeth, significantly reducing the risk of them being damaged or knocked out in accidents.
5. Correcting Harmful Oral Habits
Thumb sucking, prolonged pacifier use, and other oral habits can adversely affect the development of the mouth. Early orthodontics can help in correcting these habits early, which helps prevent them from causing long-term damage.
6. Improving Aesthetics and Self-Esteem
A misaligned smile can affect a child’s self-esteem. Early correction of orthodontic issues can lead to a more positive self-image and increase confidence, particularly important during formative years.
7. Enhancing Speech
Teeth and jaw alignment play a crucial role in speech. Misalignments can lead to speech issues. Correcting these orthodontic problems early can help prevent or improve speech difficulties.
8. Easier Maintenance and Cleaning
Aligned teeth are easier to clean. Early orthodontic treatment helps children maintain better oral hygiene, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
9. Intercepting More Serious Problems
Early assessments can help our orthodontist in Ann Arbor, MI, catch potential problems before they become more serious. This proactive approach can simplify later treatments or make them unnecessary altogether.
10. Potentially Shorter Treatment Times
When orthodontic issues are addressed early, the total time spent with dental braces or other corrective devices can often be reduced. Early intervention takes advantage of a child’s growth for more effective adjustments.
Schedule an Orthodontic Consultation
Early orthodontic treatment is not just an investment in a child’s smile—it’s an investment in their health and future. By addressing dental issues early, parents can help ease their child’s path towards a healthier, more beautiful smile with potentially fewer dental problems down the line.
It’s recommended to consult with our orthodontist who can provide a personalized assessment and treatment plan tailored to your child’s unique needs. This proactive approach to dental health can have lifelong benefits, making it a wise choice for many families.
Request an Appointment with Dr. Bedi
Our orthodontist in Ann Arbor, MI, is accepting new patients and would be more than happy to welcome you to our practice. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Jashleen Bedi, please call(734) 821-7684. You may also fill out our online contact form and a member of our team will reach out to you soon.