Why is Age 7 the Magic Number?
What We Look for During an Early Evaluation
- Problems with jaw growth (jaws that are growing unevenly)
- Crowding or spacing of teeth
- Protruding teeth that are at risk of being damaged
- A crossbite, underbite, or overbite
- Difficulty with chewing or biting
- Harmful oral habits like thumb-sucking
- Mouth breathing or snoring
The Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment (Phase 1)
- Guiding Jaw Growth: Correcting jaw growth problems can create a more balanced facial profile.
- Creating Space for Permanent Teeth: Early treatment can reduce the need for tooth extractions later.
- Reducing Treatment Time: Addressing problems early can simplify and shorten future orthodontic treatment (Phase 2).
- Preventing Trauma: Correcting protruding front teeth can protect them from being chipped or fractured.
- Improving Airway Function: Expanding the upper jaw can help improve breathing and reduce snoring or mouth breathing.
Why Choose My Smile Orthodontist for Your Child's First Visit?
- Expert, Kid-Friendly Care: Dr. Neil Mandalia and our team are experienced in working with children, ensuring they feel comfortable and safe from the moment they walk in.
- Advanced Diagnostic Tools: We use state-of-the-art imaging, including our BeamReader 3D technology, to get a clear, comprehensive view of your child’s teeth, jaw, and airway with minimal radiation.
- A No-Pressure Approach: We believe in conservative treatment. If your child isn’t ready for intervention, we’ll place them in our complimentary observation program to monitor their growth and development.
- Convenient for Families: With offices in Newtown and Holland and flexible scheduling options, we make it easy to fit important appointments into your busy schedule.
- A Fun, Welcoming Environment: Our office is designed to be a warm and friendly place where kids look forward to their visits.
FAQ
Why does my child need to see an orthodontist by age 7?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a check-up by age 7 because it’s the perfect time to spot potential issues with jaw growth and emerging teeth. An early evaluation allows Dr. Mandalia to identify and address problems that might be more difficult to treat later on, ensuring your child has the best start for a healthy smile.
Will my child get braces during their first visit?
It’s very unlikely. The initial visit is primarily an evaluation to assess your child’s dental development. Most children who have an early screening do not need immediate treatment. The goal is simply to determine if any issues are present and to decide the best time to begin treatment, if needed at all.
What happens if my child doesn't need treatment right away?
If Dr. Neil determines that no immediate intervention is necessary, we will place your child in our complimentary orthodontic observation program. This allows us to monitor their growth and development at no charge. At My Smile orthodontist, we use a combination approach using remote monitoring and in-office appointment, so we can begin treatment at an optimal time.
What are the benefits of early orthodontic treatment (Phase 1)?
Early treatment, also known as Phase 1, can help guide proper jaw growth, create space for crowded permanent teeth, reduce the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth, and often makes later treatment (Phase 2) shorter and less complex. In some cases, it can even eliminate the need for future tooth extractions.
What should we expect during the first consultation?
The first visit is simple and stress-free. Our team will welcome you and your child, and Dr. Neil will perform a clinical evaluation of their teeth and bite. Our treatment coordinator will complete a low-radiation 3D x-ray along with diagnostic photos. Dr. Neil and our treatment coordinator will then sit down and discuss the custom plan for your child and answer any questions you may have.
How long does early treatment typically last?
If Phase 1 treatment is recommended, it usually lasts between 6 to 12 months. The goal is to address specific developmental concerns before all permanent teeth have come in. After this phase, there is typically a observation period before a potential second phase of treatment is considered.
