Seventh Birthday Approaching? Time for a Visit to the Orthodontist!

While many parents associate braces and orthodontics with the teen years, you may be surprised to learn that the best time for your child to have their first orthodontic visit is around their 7th birthday. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children be seen by an orthodontist at age seven and we at Viechnicki Orthodontics absolutely agree! Orthodontic check-ups ensure that your child’s teeth and jaw are developing in proper alignment.

Why by age seven?

By age 7, your child’s mouth has a mix of baby (primary) and permanent teeth. It’s at this stage that a trained orthodontist can spot a problem before it becomes a bigger, life long problem. Early intervention can give your child their best, most confident smile. 

There are many benefits to starting orthodontic treatment as a child; these include shorter treatment time, avoiding complications associated with impacted permanent teeth and the reduced chance of needing to remove permanent teeth. That’s because with early orthodontics we can:

• Guide the permanent teeth into preferred positions  
• Guide jaw growth into a more favorable pattern
• Create room for crowded teeth
• Correct harmful oral habits like thumb, finger and pacifier sucking 

Do I need a dentist referral for my child to see Dr Viechnicki?

You don’t need to wait for a dentist referral for your child to see an orthodontist. General dentists and orthodontists focus on different aspects of your child’s dental health. Orthodontists are specialists who are experts in facial development and the bite. 

If you recommend early orthodontics for my child, does that mean they won’t need braces as a teen? 

Dr. Viechnicki will develop a customized treatment plan based on each individual child’s needs. Early treatment benefits children whose teeth or jaws are in unfavorable alignment and the developing problem can become more serious if left untreated.

There are some orthodontic conditions that will need a second course of treatment or “fine tuning” in the teen years after nearly all the permanent teeth appear. 

In cases where no problems are present or no immediate intervention is required, the proper timing for the next orthodontic check can be recommended so that your child can have the most appropriate treatment at the most appropriate time.

Schedule your child’s orthodontic check-up now!

Click below to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Viechnicki. We are eager to meet you and your seven year old! 

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