The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This allows orthodontists to assess growth and development, and to perform early interceptive orthodontics, when necessary.
Catching problems as they develop and before they mushroom into bigger problems is critical. You might think nothing’s wrong, or feel like waiting until your child gets all of his/her permanent teeth makes sense. However, a missed problem like a crossbite can turn into facial asymmetry. Severe, unrecognized crowding resulting in early and inappropriate loss of baby teeth can be hard for non-orthodontists to recognize and can lead to future extraction of adult teeth, for example.
Our board certified orthodontists underwent years of specialized training to detect and treat issues in dental and facial development. Early detection is key and interception of teeth and jaw developmental issues can correct or greatly reduce the complexity of future orthodontic problems. Our orthodontists enjoy explaining these issues and solutions thoughtfully and clearly before any treatment is done.
Early diagnosis and proper treatment will help your child develop their most beautiful, healthy smile while decreasing the complexity of (and sometimes eliminating) orthodontic treatment needed in the teen years.
What your ortho can spot on your child’s first evaluation:
- Overcrowding of the teeth
- Asymmetries
- Ectopic (off-course) eruption of teeth
- Jaw growth irregularities, disproportionate jaws (asymmetry in the face)
- Jaws that click, shift or make noise as they move
- Malocclusions (bite misalignment)
Other issues that can lead to significant future orthodontic problems:
- Premature, inappropriate loss of baby teeth
- Habits (thumb, pacifier, mouth breathing)
- Genetic abnormalities of the teeth (example: missing teeth)
- Dental hygiene problems
At Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontic Specialists of Michigan, an orthodontic evaluation is complimentary and will be very informative to you and your child. Children love the personal attention they receive from our orthodontists, Dr. Ari and Dr. AJ. Schedule your appointment today!
About Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontic Specialists of Michigan, the offices of Drs. Plunkett, Ralstrom, Makowski, Thanasas, Ker, and Associates
Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontic Specialists of Michigan have specialized in pediatric dentistry and orthodontics since 1968. Our family-friendly and newly renovated office gives patients and families a more comfortable and consistent experience with dentistry from the very beginning. Our pediatric dentists treat children from newborn to 18 years of age while our orthodontists provide care for both children and adults and are proud to be Premier Providers of Invisalign and Invisalign Teen services. The ability to treat all patients with compassion and individuality, including those that may have special needs reaches beyond our facility, which has treatment rooms available for children who require additional privacy and customized care options. We pioneered valued hospital affiliations to allow dental services to be performed at DMC Children’s Hospital and St. John Macomb Hospital, when appropriate or necessary, and our specialists are also proud to be on staff at Henry Ford and Beaumont hospitals.
